International News

Magna Mirrors has officially started construction on its new facility in Spartanburg County. A division of Magna International, one of the world’s largest suppliers in the automotive industry, Magna employs more than 2,400 South Carolinians. 

The first flights from new airline, Breeze Airways, are taking flight out of Charleston today. The company announced last week that Charleston International Airport will be included in its debut network of nonstop routes across the country, enhancing the state’s economic development marketability. 

“You never get a second chance to make a first impression.”

Team South Carolina takes that famous quote by legendary American actor Will Rogers to heart. We recognize that in the realm of economic development, it’s imperative to put our best foot forward. And, the world has taken notice.

South Carolina has a long and successful track record of helping companies from around the world establish, relocate and expand into the U.S. and North American markets. With more than 1,200 operations of foreign-affiliated firms within the Palmetto State, it’s clear that South Carolina’s massive global footprint only continues to grow. 

International trade is an integral part of South Carolina’s identity. S.C. Commerce works with companies of all sizes to develop and grow their businesses all around the world. In 2020, South Carolina’s total export sales topped $30.3 billion, with the state’s exporters selling products in 195 countries and territories around the world.

"I do not think that there is any other quality so essential to success of any kind as the quality of perseverance. It overcomes almost everything, even nature." -John D. Rockefeller

The logistics industry is now a $37.2 billion industry in South Carolina. That’s according to the 2020 SC Logistics Economic Impact Study released today by the SC Council on Competitiveness. The study, completed by research economist Dr. Joseph C. Von Nessen, details the overall economic impact, employee wage averages, employment growth and the emphasis on increased technology reliance within the logistics sector. 

The U.S Small Business Administration’s (SBA) State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) is celebrating 10 years of helping small businesses find global success. STEP assists small businesses overcome obstacles in exporting by providing grants to cover the costs associated with entering and expanding into international markets. 

As Team South Carolina seeks to build on its expanding global footprint, it’s important to companies that international customers, partners and future clients are able to connect and engage with them. A strong website and online presence are critical to the growth and success of an international business and its brand.

The South Carolina Department of Commerce’s India office recently hosted a virtual investors meeting in partnership with Tiruppur Exporters Association, a leading industry association of Indian textile exporters, and business stakeholders.

This meeting provided approximately 100 key Indian and Bangladeshi investors with valuable insights into the textile and advanced materials sectors, along with information on South Carolina’s business-friendly environment, skilled workforce, tax benefits, incentives and infrastructure assets.