On Thrusday, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce announced the publication of Tariffs Briefing: May 15, 2025 – Latest Tariff Pauses and New Trade Deals. This publication offers timely insights into the evolving global trade landscape, focusing on recent trade agreements between the United States and China, the United Kingdom, and Saudi Arabia. In 2024, bilateral trade between Georgia and these markets exceeded $21 billion.

Georgia set new records for international trade activity in 2024, with $198.7 billion worth of total trade, making Georgia the sixth-largest state in the United Sates for total trade. Georgia-grown, -made, and -produced goods reached 219 unique export markets.

This report is part of the Georgia Chamber’s ongoing commitment to assist businesses and communities in navigating tariff measures and other trade barriers. Five reports have now been published on the impact of tariffs on Georgia businesses. Those reports can be found here. In February, the Georgia Chamber launched its Global Business Subcommittee to provide insights, coordination, and advocacy for Georgia’s agriculture, business, and industry partners invested in international trade.

Some of the economic impacts to Georgia outlined in Tariffs Briefing: May 15, 2025 – Latest Tariff Pauses and New Trade Deals include:  

• Georgia’s agricultural exporters stand to benefit immediately as China is a key buyer of Georgia’s agricultural products, including poultry, pecans, and cotton. These developments are positive; however, long-term stability is required for sustained industry growth. Georgia’s ports are also affected.  

• Ports around the country saw container traffic swing dramatically during tariff escalations. The tariff pause is expected to drive a new surge in container throughput as businesses seek to capitalize on the temporary reprieve. This volatility complicates logistics planning while also underscoring Georgia’s strategic importance as a trade and logistics hub. 

• The U.K. is a major trade partner for Georgia companies, particularly in service industries and high-tech goods.  Additionally, tariff rates on steel imports from the U.K. will decrease to 0%, and ethanol imports to the U.K. from the U.S. will drop to 0%. 

• Potential allocated funding from the deal could bolster key economic sectors in Georgia. The aerospace sector may see new orders or subcontracting from Saudi defense procurements, and energy and utility firms could benefit from joint innovation projects. Infrastructure firms based in Georgia, or with significant operations here, may have the opportunity to participate in Saudi-funded megaprojects. 

The Georgia Chamber recommends our members take a proactive stance in the face of these changes and will continue to advocate for the members of our business community. Despite the headwinds, Georgia’s economy remains dynamic and resilient. By staying informed and adaptable, the state’s business community can mitigate risks and even find growth opportunities in the new trade landscape.