South Carolina-Ireland Trade Commission   

On October 23, 2024, Governor Henry McMaster signed into law the bill establishing the South Carolina-Ireland Trade Commission (SC Code Title 39, Chapter 79). This 15-member Commission is charged with advancing bilateral trade and investment between the Palmetto State and the Republic of Ireland, strengthening our trade ties and expanding our economic opportunities.

Why Ireland and South Carolina?

From 2010–2024, Irish-based companies announced more than $239 million in capital investment in South Carolina and today employ more than 5,900 South Carolinians. Strategically, Ireland serves as a gateway to the European Union and offers a strong environment for foreign direct investment. In addition, strong cultural and economic connections provide a foundation for deeper collaboration, supported by South Carolina’s significant Irish American community.

Purpose and scope of the Commission

The SC-Ireland Trade Commission is authorized through legislation to:

  • Advance bilateral trade and investment between South Carolina and Ireland.
  • Initiate joint action on policy issues of mutual interest.
  • Promote business and academic exchanges between South Carolina and Ireland.
  • Encourage mutually beneficial economic support and infrastructure investment.
  • Address other issues determined by the Commission.

Commission structure and membership

The Commission includes 15 members appointed from across state government, higher education, business and the Irish American community in South Carolina.

  • Seven members appointed by the Governor (including the Secretary of Commerce or designee, the Commissioner of Agriculture or designee, two higher education representatives, two members of the Irish American community in SC and one representative of a South Carolina business or trade organization)
  • Four members appointed by the President of the Senate (two must be Senate members)
  • Four members appointed by the Speaker of the House (two must be House members)

Members serve terms of four years (with initial staggered terms) and may be reappointed. The Commission meets and holds hearings at locations across South Carolina.

What this partnership means for South Carolina 

By formalizing this partnership, South Carolina has a structured, strategic channel to:

Support new Irish investment and job creation across key industries.  

Expand academic, workforce and cultural exchange opportunities.  

Strengthen infrastructure and business partnerships connected to a global economy.  

Capitalize on Ireland’s growth, innovation and connectivity into Europe and deepen South Carolina’s international business relationships and access to European markets.

How to engage with the Commission  

The Commission serves as a resource for businesses, academic institutions and organizations interested in building connections between South Carolina and Ireland.

Through the Commission, stakeholders can explore opportunities for trade, investment, academic collaboration and international partnership development while leveraging SC Commerce’s broader global network and relationships.

South Carolina-Ireland Commission members

The Coordinating Council brings state agencies together to guide economic development strategy, coordinate statewide activities and approve certain infrastructure and economic development grants.

Meetings

SC-Ireland Trade Commission December 2025 agenda

For questions or additional information, please contact a member of the Commission.