COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) -- A Canadian company that produces and markets a natural fiber made from flax produced in South Carolina is investing $8 million in a plant in Pamplico.

South Carolina Commerce Secretary Bobby Hitt said Tuesday that Naturally Advanced Technologies Inc. plans to create 25 jobs after it renovates a former plant in Florence County.

Hitt's office says the business will use flax grown in Florence and surrounding counties. The agency says the company uses a special process that removes flax's stiff binding agents and produces a flexible fabric with the softness and durability of cotton.

The company is currently  taking applications. It says it expects to begin operations this spring.

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