Peach Tree Times

Atlanta, GA - Governor Brian P. Kemp and the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) have announced that the state of Georgia has broken export records for the third consecutive year. In 2023, Georgia surpassed $49.7 billion in exports, surpassing the previous record of $47 billion in 2022. The state currently ranks seventh in the U.S. for the dollar value of trade and 12th for the dollar value of exports.

Governor Kemp expressed his satisfaction with the achievement, stating, "For the third year in a row, Georgia has broken every record when it comes to exports, bringing billions of dollars to communities all across the state." He also highlighted the significance of small businesses in driving these export numbers, with an estimated 87 percent of exports coming from small businesses. The governor emphasized that international trade supports various industries in Georgia, such as logistics, manufacturing, and agriculture, and enables the state to reach markets worldwide.

The top exports for Georgia in 2023 included civilian aircraft products, motor vehicles, turbojets and turbines, poultry, and chemical woodpulp products. The state's major export destinations were Canada, Mexico, China, Germany, and Singapore.

GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson acknowledged the role of Georgia's international representatives in finding markets for Georgia products. He stated, "For decades, our international representatives in overseas markets have helped find the right homes for Georgia products and Georgia-made goods. They play a significant role in both the lives of our small businesses and in moving the needle to increase our state's overall exports."

Georgia's international trade efforts have been successful in South Korea, with notable year-over-year growth in total trade between Georgia and the country. The state's international trade is supported by representatives in key markets globally, accounting for a significant portion of exports and bilateral trade in 2023.

Lizann Grupalo, GDEcD Deputy Commissioner of International Trade, highlighted the importance of trade in building a resilient economy. She stated, "Trade builds a more resilient economy, allowing businesses to shift their strategies as market opportunities evolve, and has a ripple effect in terms of job creation." Grupalo also noted that approximately one in nine jobs in Georgia is tied to the logistics industry.

Georgia's strategic advantage in international trade is bolstered by its world-class infrastructure. The state is home to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the busiest and most efficient airport globally, and the Port of Savannah, the fastest-growing and third-busiest container gateway in the U.S. Georgia's rail and highway infrastructure, with 5,000 miles of rail and 20,000 miles of federal and state highways, further support its trade capabilities.

Georgia's International Trade office offers support and resources to all Georgia-based businesses looking to expand their international presence. The office provides assistance in trade shows, exporting resources, and information about the state's international trade services.

Governor Kemp and the GDEcD are proud of the achievements in 2023 and are committed to continuing to support opportunities for Georgians in every corner of the state this year.

To access the full 2023 trade report, visit the Georgia Department of Economic Development's website.

About GDEcD's International Trade Team:

The Georgia Department of Economic Development's International Trade team plays a vital role in bolstering Georgia's exports and promoting the state as a competitive source of quality products and services. The team includes International Representatives located in 12 strategic global markets, assisting Georgia companies in expanding their sales worldwide. By providing global insight and connections, the International Trade office helps Georgia businesses diversify their international customer base.

Sources:

- Governor Brian Kemp

- GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson

- Lizann Grupalo, GDEcD Deputy Commissioner of International Trade

- Georgia Department of Economic Development's International Trade Team