International Offices
The Department of Commerce’s commitment to helping international companies in their efforts to establish, relocate and expand business operations in the U.S. and North American markets is supported by the state’s four foreign offices. The state has had an official presence in Europe and Asia for decades, and more recently Canada, reflecting how the mutual positive relationships between the state and foreign countries have grown and solidified.
Direct foreign investment continues to create jobs and opportunity in the state. South Carolina ranks No. 1 in the nation for its share of workforce employed by foreign companies. Foreign investment comprised 26% of all projects recruited in 2007 and accounted for 31% of all jobs recruited.
Advisory and support services provided South Carolina’s International Offices include:
- Professional support in the business site selection process
- Identification of suitable communities, sites and buildings
- Detailed information on industry sectors and operating costs
- Introduction to the pro-business environment in the state
- Access to technical and workforce training programs
- Provides governmental assistance, language interpretation and customary procedures
- Serves as an on-the-ground point of contact
- Provides trade assistance