China's Sun Ya Shoes is to establish its European manufacturing headquarters in Milford Haven, South Wales - its first plant outside China.

Trading as Athlons Company Limited, the company plans to produce up to 2500 pairs of fashion shoes per week, starting in April this year, doubling to 5000 pairs by January 2001, The Invest In Britain Bureau announced on January 13.

In his announcement, Gavin Cheung, managing director of Athlons, said: "We have chosen Milford Haven because of the facilities, the area and the people."

"We have worked for twelve months to ensure we are making the right decision so we can work long term and make this our base for developing the European markets," he added. (Xinhua)