Zhangzhou paraxylene chemical plant hit by explosion

A major fire sparked in south-eastern China’s Fujian province following an explosion at a chemical plant in Zhangzhou on April 6.

At least one person was injured, state news agency Xinhua reported.

The plant produces paraxylene (PX), a flammable chemical used in polyester and plastics manufacturing.

The location of PX plants in China has sparked protests from residents, including violent demonstrations last year in Guangdong province.

Many residents fear pollution from the plants is hazardous to health.

This was the second blast at the plant in two years, the South China Morning Post reported.

The plant in Zhangzhou is operated by Dragon Aromatics, one of the largest independent PX producers in China. The company has not yet commented.

China Central Television (CCTV) carried footage of the fire, with flames shooting into the air, but provided few details.

Xinhua said the blast occurred at about 19:00 local time in a pumping station.

The Zhangzhou fire department said about 430 fire-fighters were at the scene.