Georgia’s international connectivity continues to drive best in class economic development.  Georgia offers access to the fastest-growing port in the nation, the world’s most-traveled airport and a collaborative business environment unmatched by other states. These assets provide a gateway for our local companies to thrive in global markets and remain competitive on an international scale.

Georgia’s leadership in the global marketplace is solidified by economic development representatives in 11 strategic world markets, including Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Europe, Israel, Japan, Korea, Mexico and the United Kingdom and Ireland. Collectively, these representatives cover 37 different countries, bringing investment to our state, promoting Georgia as an ideal tourism destination, and assisting Georgia companies to sell their products and services internationally.

Our international representatives tout Georgia as the No. 1 state in the U.S. to do business and the ideal place to live, work and play. Their work as ambassadors for our state cannot be overstated, and their impact on Georgia’s economy is clear: 96 percent of international investment, 78 percent of imports and 64 percent of exports are connected to countries where GDEcD has a presence. The work of our international representatives translates to real opportunities for Georgians all around the state.

One week each year, our international representatives travel to Georgia for a week of business meetings, investment calls and to experience first-hand what sets Georgia apart from the competition.  This year, 16 representatives from 10 countries toured Ponce City Market and the Atlanta BeltLine; they engaged with the consular community and legislators during International Day at the Capitol; they took networking to the next level during the annual Go Global reception, where Governor and Mrs. Deal honored 26 exporters with the 3rd annual GLOBE Award in front of nearly 350 attendees; and they took part in more than 105 business to business meetings with local exporters.

Our representatives also had the opportunity to spend a day in Northwest Georgia, visiting Cartersville, Rome, Adairsville and Dalton.  During their visit, they interacted with the business community, local leaders, educational institutions and economic development partners.  They were able to experience firsthand how tourism, international business, the arts, innovation, existing industry support and education all come together to support thriving business environments in regions all across Georgia.

These experiences help our international representatives be stronger advocates for Georgia in their home countries.