US-based Harman International has opened a new automotive systems plant at the Suzhou Industrial Park in Jiangsu province, indicating the company's confidence in the Chinese market in defiance of the global financial crisis.

"This manufacturing and engineering expansion is a key element of our strategy for growth, while leveraging the attractive infrastructure, talented workforce and new business opportunities in the Asian markets," said Dinesh C. Paliwal, Harman's chairman and CEO, in a recent interview with China Daily.

The new Harman plant in Suzhou produces a variety of speakers, amplifiers and electronic components under the Harman Kardon, Infinity, and JBL brands.