HARRISBURG, PA — The Shapiro-Davis Administration announced Wednesday that US Durum Products, North America’s leading couscous manufacturer, will relocate and expand its operations into the City of Harrisburg — a move backed by an $8 million private investment and $140,000 in state support. The project is expected to create and retain 64 jobs over the next three years.
US Durum will move from its Lancaster County site into a larger, historic facility on South 17th Street in Harrisburg, where the company plans to modernize production with new equipment and upgraded technology. State officials said the expansion will increase output, strengthen supply-chain efficiency, and improve service to the company’s global customer base.
Governor Josh Shapiro framed the announcement as further evidence of Pennsylvania’s competitive position. According to the press release, Pennsylvania is the only state in the Northeast with a growing economy — a distinction cited from a Moody’s analysis. The administration reports securing more than $31.6 billion in private-sector commitments since taking office, generating over 16,700 new jobs statewide.
The Department of Community and Economic Development is supporting the project with a $100,000 Pennsylvania First grant and a $40,000 WEDnetPA workforce-training grant. Officials including Lt. Governor Austin Davis, Senator Patty Kim, Representative Dave Madsen, and DCED Secretary Rick Siger joined the announcement, emphasizing the project’s alignment with the state’s long-term economic development priorities.
State leaders highlighted the manufacturing and agriculture sectors — which contribute more than $248 billion to Pennsylvania’s economy each year — as central components of the administration’s 10-year development strategy. Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding noted that having a local processor shortens supply chains and reduces costs for farmers strained by federal-level uncertainty.
Founded in 1993, US Durum has expanded its product line from couscous to pasta, Mediterranean blends, and grain-based foods. Company President Said Chergui said the move positions the business for long-term success in the region, while local legislators praised the decision as a boon for Harrisburg’s workforce and manufacturing base.
The expansion comes amid a broader push by the Shapiro Administration to streamline permitting and enhance Pennsylvania’s business climate. Recent reports from Area Development and Site Selection Magazine have ranked the Commonwealth among the top states for business growth and site-readiness programs.
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