South Carolina officials recently completed a four-day tour of Germany, where they met with industry leaders to highlight the state’s strong business-friendly reputation. This trip celebrated 50 years of the state’s economic development operations in Europe, a legacy that traces back to South Carolina’s once-dominant textile industry.
What Was the Purpose of the Tour?
Gov. Henry McMaster, along with leaders from various state agencies, visited companies with operations in South Carolina to build stronger business ties. They toured the offices of major foreign companies, including manufacturing automation company Siemens (Spartanburg), vehicle parts makers Schaeffler (Fort Mill), Bosch (Charleston), and medical equipment manufacturer Arthrex (Pendleton). They also visited Daimler, the parent company of Mercedes Benz, which builds vans in North Charleston.
The delegation also held “confidential economic development meetings” with other companies that South Carolina hopes to attract, although specific details were not shared by the Commerce Department.
Key Outcomes of Previous Trips
Gov. McMaster made similar visits to Germany in June 2024, which led to the announcement of a $250 million investment by Homanit, a wood paneling manufacturer that will create 300 jobs in Clarendon County.
This year’s trip was significantly larger and more expensive. It had an estimated cost of $155,000, covering hotels, flights, and a banquet, which is about seven times more expensive than last year’s $22,000 trip.
Celebrating 50 Years of Economic Development in Europe
The final day of the trip featured an anniversary dinner to mark South Carolina’s 50 years of having a presence in Europe. Gov. McMaster addressed around 300 industry and government leaders at the German Chamber of Commerce-German American Business Forum
