The Georgia Department of Economic Development’s International Trade division is officially announcing a new marketing tool created to provide virtual connections between international buyers and Georgia suppliers. The new Export Georgia, USA Directory provides Georgia businesses with the global connections they need to reach new markets and diversify their international customer base. The site (www.georgia.org/export) currently features more than 60 Georgia businesses.

“Georgia has quickly become the epicenter of global trade in the Southeast,” said Georgia Department of Economic Development Commissioner Pat Wilson. “As we continue to celebrate a record-setting year for trade in 2019 – our trade team is focusing on the future. Not only will this tool help Georgia businesses find new buyers in international markets, but it will also help businesses get back on their feet as they seek out new opportunities to succeed.” 

A new record was set for Georgia trade in 2019, with a 2.87% increase in total trade and 1.5% increase in exports over the previous record set in 2018. The State of Georgia tallied $41.2 billion spanning 214 countries and territories.

The Export Georgia, USA Directory is a free tool developed for Georgia companies interested in promoting their products or services to international buyers. This free resource allows international buyers to search for Georgia suppliers of products and services and provides a mechanism for the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s (GDEcD) International Trade division to facilitate international business matchmaking for Georgia manufacturers and service providers.

“We are thrilled to offer this free marketing opportunity to Georgia companies interested in expanding their sales worldwide,” said GDEcD Deputy Commissioner for International Trade Mary Waters. “As our economy evolves, this new digital tool serves as a catalyst for Georgia’s small businesses seeking to diversify their global customer base.” 

The International Trade division works with more than 2,000 Georgia companies each year – the majority being small businesses – to bolster exports and assist companies pursuing new international markets. The Atlanta-based team is supported by international representatives located in 12 strategic global markets. In addition to a suite of customized services, the trade team is currently offering a series of free webinars for interested companies. A calendar is available on their website (www.georgia.org/international-trade-events).

The International Trade team is actively recruiting Georgia businesses to register for a listing in the new Export Georgia, USA Directory. Despite the challenges presented by COVID-19 as it relates to in-person trade shows and international travel, the International Trade team is committed to continuing to deliver export opportunities, support the vetting of international buyers for Georgia companies, and engage the team’s international representatives to facilitate business connections virtually. www.georgia.org/export