It's no secret that, over the last several decades, the State of South Carolina has established itself as a true leader in advanced manufacturing. With a skilled workforce that's second to none and a robust infrastructure network that promotes global connectivity, a remarkable number of manufacturers have decided to make significant investments in our state. Since 2011, South Carolina's manufacturing employment growth rate has topped 19 percent -- a figure which leads the Southeast.
As this manufacturing surge has taken place, another important industry sector has followed closely in its footsteps -- logistics. Critical to the success of our automakers and tire producers, logistics has become a $32 billion industry in South Carolina. According to an economic impact study, released by the S.C. Council on Competitiveness last week, this booming industry is responsible for more than 113,000 jobs statewide.
The latest example of South Carolina's thriving logistics sector can be found in Dillon County -- future home of the S.C. Ports Authority's second inland port facility. This week, Harbor Freight Tools, a national tool retailer, broke ground on the expansion of its East Coast distribution operation, which is located off of I-95. In total, the project is expected to generate 500 new jobs and bring the company's overall investment in South Carolina to more than $200 million.
It's often said that, in the Palmetto State, we're great at making things. But, with a burgeoning logistics sector, it's clear that we're also great at moving those things to marketplaces around the world. Looking ahead, as we seek to remain atop the global industry ladder, the continued development of our logistics sector will be critical. By ensuring both existing and prospective firms that they'll be able to efficiently and effectively transport goods to market, we'll create an environment for economic growth and prosperity in all corners of this state.