An explosion has ripped through a chemical plant in south-eastern China’s Fujian province, sparking a major fire.

The blast occurred on Monday evening at the plant in Zhangzhou. State news agency Xinhua reported one injury.

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.