Georgia recently saw a significant milestone for exports and trade statewide, according to the Governor’s Office.
Gov. Brian Kemp and the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) on Friday, Feb. 14 announced that Georgia has reached the new milestone in international trade, surpassing $53.1 billion in exports last year.
This marks a 6.4% year-over-year increase, outpacing the national average of 2.3%. The state also advanced to sixth place in the U.S. for dollar value of trade, further solidifying its role as a global commerce hub.
“With more than 87% of Georgia exporters being small businesses, these record-breaking numbers represent economic opportunity and success in every corner of the state,” Kemp said. “In 2024, Georgia outpaced the national average for growth in exports and moved up another rank in total trade, further demonstrating that our strategic investments and commitment to working with job creators to meet their needs are delivering results for hardworking Georgians.”
Georgia exported goods to 219 unique destinations in 2024, maintaining its No. 12 ranking in the U.S. for dollar value of exports. The state’s top export remained civilian aircraft and ancillary parts, followed by motor vehicles, data processing machines, telephone equipment, and medical devices.
“Georgia’s diverse industry base and connectivity to more than 200 global markets create a more resilient state economy,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “Georgia offers extensive partnerships, expert guidance on export strategies, and top-tier infrastructure – including deepwater ports, railways, highways, and airports – that empower businesses to thrive in the global market. We appreciate the General Assembly, local leaders, and statewide partners for ensuring Georgia remains the No. 1 state for business, supporting companies in expanding, investing, and moving products both statewide and worldwide.”
A major driver behind Georgia’s international trade success is its network of global representatives, who facilitate key connections between Georgia exporters and international customers. In 2024, markets where Georgia maintains full-time trade representation accounted for 66% of the state’s exports and 83% of its bilateral trade.
“A fourth consecutive year of record-breaking exports is an incredible accomplishment that requires strong partnerships at all levels, from global to local,” said Deputy Commissioner of Trade Lizann Grupalo. “Georgia’s international representatives are a key link to global markets, providing on the ground insights to navigate an ever-changing global environment. Their contributions allow our Georgia-based team members to serve Georgia’s small business exporters who otherwise may not have access to this information and opportunities.”
The state’s robust infrastructure continues to support its trade growth. Georgia is home to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the world’s busiest and most efficient airport.
The Port of Savannah, the fastest-growing and third-busiest container gateway in the U.S., has reported twelve consecutive months of year-over-year container volume growth. The Port of Brunswick also remains one of the country’s busiest hubs for Roll-on/Roll-off cargo. Georgia currently leads the southeast in rail miles, further bolstering its logistics network.
