South Carolina’s total export sales reached $ 30.3 billion in 2020, with state exporters selling products in 195 countries and territories around the world.
Although this number of sales represents a drop of 26.9% compared to the total for 2019, 88% of states also reported a reduction attributed to the global pandemic of COVID-19.
The state continues to lead the country in export sales of tires and complete motor vehicles. And, as a novelty in 2020, South Carolina won first place in the export sales of ball and roller bearings.
“South Carolina’s economy continues to grow, and the news that the state remains the national leader in tire and passenger vehicle export sales – and the new leader in ball and roller bearings – is proof of international connectivity. of our state, ”said Gov Henry McMaster. “As we look to the future, we will continue to work hard to ensure that the State of Palmetto remains a globally competitive place to do business.”
“Although the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted trade worldwide, South Carolina continues to live up to our reputation for producing high quality products and transporting these products globally,” said Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt . “International trade is part of our identity and is fundamental to support economic prosperity. Moving forward, we will continue to prioritize the growth of our commercial footprint and encourage companies of all sizes to expand their reach into new markets abroad. “
“SC ports connect South Carolina to the world, serving as a vital economic engine for the Southeast. SC Ports handles state-of-the-art vehicles for global automakers, home products for mega retailers, agricultural products for farmers and essential supplies for medical device manufacturers, among other commodities, ”said SC Ports President and CEO Jim Newsome. “As one of the top 10 container ports in the United States, we have invested more than $ 2 billion in our infrastructure to remain competitive globally. In 2021, we will have the deepest port on the East Coast, 52 feet away, and we will open the Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal, the country’s first container terminal in more than a decade. At SC Ports, we focus on efficient operations and infrastructure, ensuring that SC-based businesses can continue to thrive. “
To continue growing the export activity in the state and to serve companies of all sizes that seek to engage in international trade, SC Commerce offers the South Carolina Export Incentive Program. The initiative reimburses the participation of small and medium-sized companies in missions SC Commerce commercials, major trade fairs and international meetings. It also funds SC Commerce export training and other export-related initiatives.
For more information about the South Carolina Export Incentives Program, including how qualified companies can participate, visit http://bit.ly/scexporting.