Built to make what's next Manufacturing runs deep in South Carolina

What began as a textile-driven economy has evolved into one of the nation’s most dynamic manufacturing ecosystems that spans automotive, aerospace, appliances, advanced materials, consumer goods and industrial technologies.

Manufacturing built for innovation, precision and long-term growth

Today, companies across the globe manufacture in South Carolina because the state offers more than industrial strength. It provides the infrastructure, workforce and advanced manufacturing capabilities needed to compete in a rapidly evolving global market.
 
From premium vehicles and aircraft to engineered materials and complex components, products made in South Carolina move industries forward every day.
 
Continued investment in workforce development, infrastructure and industrial growth is helping accelerate the sector even further. Organizations like South Carolina Manufacturers and Commerce support long-term competitiveness through industry advocacy, workforce initiatives and STEM education, while ongoing infrastructure improvements strengthen the movement of goods across the state and beyond.
 

$41.6B

announced manufacturing investment since 2016

$294 – 313B

estimated annual economic impact

734k+

jobs supported by manufacturing statewide

20.3%

share of manufacturing tied to transportation equipment production

+1.2%

employment growth since 2019, outperforming national trends

Automotive production is driving manufacturing growth in South Carolina

South Carolina’s automotive sector is one of the strongest examples of the state’s manufacturing capabilities in action.
 
From vehicle assembly and tire production to advanced systems and global supply chains, the state has built an automotive ecosystem designed for scale, precision and export-driven growth.
 
In 2025, South Carolina led the nation in exports of completed passenger vehicles and tires — supported by a skilled workforce, modern infrastructure and companies investing in the future of mobility.

Infrastructure built to support manufacturing at scale

From raw materials and supplier networks to ports, rail and interstate access, the state provides the operational environment manufacturers need to move products efficiently and compete globally. 

Built for faster growth

A well-established supply chain, shovel-ready industrial sites and business-friendly operating environment help companies accelerate production and expansion timelines.

Global market access

The Port of Charleston provides direct access to international markets through the deepest harbor on the US East Coast.

Strategic East Coast location

Strategically located within a two-day drive of nearly two-thirds of the US population, South Carolina allows manufacturers to reach major markets quickly and reliably.

Low-cost industrial energy

Competitive industrial energy costs and ongoing infrastructure investment further strengthen long-term operational efficiency across the state.

Advanced manufacturing innovation starts in South Carolina

The Savannah River National Laboratory’s Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative (AMC) is helping shape the future of modern manufacturing through applied research, workforce development and industry collaboration.

A workforce built for manufacturing

With one of the highest concentrations of manufacturing employment in the nation, the state has developed deep expertise across advanced production, industrial operations, engineering and skilled trades. From assembly and automation to logistics and precision manufacturing, companies have access to a workforce experienced in complex manufacturing environments.

Manufacturing employment in South Carolina has continued to grow in recent years, outperforming national trends and reinforcing the state’s long-term industrial strength.

Through readySC, companies receive customized recruiting and workforce training designed around specific operational needs. Developed in partnership with the South Carolina Technical College System, readySC helps companies launch, scale and expand with workforce support provided at little to no direct cost.

Sites ready for manufacturing growth  

From certified industrial parks to shovel-ready properties, South Carolina offers site options across regions and communities statewide. Explore available properties using our interactive map, with filters for size, infrastructure and incentives.

A business environment designed to support long-term manufacturing growth

Performance-based incentives reward companies for job creation and capital investment, helping manufacturers launch, expand and scale operations with greater speed and efficiency. Combined with a competitive tax structure and pro-business operating environment, the state helps reduce costs while supporting long-term investment.

These advantages help manufacturers operate efficiently and compete globally from South Carolina.

  • No state property tax
  • No inventory tax or wholesale tax
  • No sales tax on manufacturing machinery, industrial power or materials used in finished products
  • No unitary tax on worldwide profits
  • A competitive corporate income tax structure with no local income tax

Built here. Grown here. Thriving here.