World travelers: Alabama-made vehicles crisscross the globe as exports surge
From the deserts of the Middle East to urban centers across Asia and villages dotting the European countryside, vehicles made in Alabama are making a lasting impression. Exports of state-made automobiles continued to grow at an impressive rate in 2016, rising 13 percent to $7.9 billion. So far this year, the numbers are holding steady…
Recruiters to showcase Alabama craft beer at investment summit
Alabama’s craft beer boom will be showcased next week at a conference that is expected to attract investors from across the globe. State business recruiters will be working the SelectUSA Investment Summit, which promotes foreign direct investment in the U.S. During the summit, held in the Washington D.C. area, they plan to serve several varieties…
Alabama foreign investment tops $1.5 billion in 2016, creating 3,250 jobs
Businesses based in countries around the globe continue to find a welcoming home in Alabama, as the state’s foreign direct investment (FDI) reached $1.57 billion last year, driving job growth in several industries. Expansions accounted for the vast majority of the 79 FDI projects announced by companies in 17 different countries. But there were notable…
Alabama team embarks on Canada trade mission
Alabama Secretary of Commerce Greg Canfield is leading a trade mission to Canada this week that aims to build on already strong ties with the state’s strongest international trade partner. The Alabama trade and business development mission kicks off Wednesday in Montréal, then shifts to Toronto for the 10th annual Southeast U.S.-Canadian Provinces (SEUS-CP) Conference,…
Alabama exports accelerate to $20.6 billion in 2016, breaking record
Alabama exports rose to a record level in 2016, topping $20 billion for the first time on gains from overseas shipments of Alabama-made products such as transportation equipment, chemicals and paper products. Figures from the U.S. Commerce Department show that Alabama exports totaled $20.55 billion last year, an increase of 6.4 percent from 2015’s results.…
Japanese investment in Alabama fuels many industries
When it comes to Japanese investment in Alabama, auto manufacturers Honda and Toyota and their broad network of suppliers across the state immediately come to mind. But the Asian nation is behind a significant number of non-automotive companies here as well, from chemical and steel producers to pharmaceutical and life insurance firms. In all, there…
Alabama leaders seek to strengthen bonds at SEUS Japan 39
Commerce Secretary Greg Canfield will join Alabama business leaders in a delegation representing the state in Japan next week at a high-level forum that aims to strengthen cultural and economic ties. More than 30 Alabama government officials, economic development professionals and others who work in finance, manufacturing, medical technology and tourism will attend the 39th…
Alabama firms seek foothold with Latin America trade mission
Latin America is the latest target for Alabama trade leaders seeking growth markets for state businesses. Representatives of a dozen companies are participating in a trade mission this week that started Sunday in Mexico and continues Wednesday in Chile. It’s being held in conjunction with the U.S. Commercial Service’s Trade Winds program, which includes regional…
Alabama trade team finds opportunities in Spain, Morocco
Spain and Morocco put out the welcome mat this week for Alabama business leaders, who visited the countries in an effort to strengthen trade ties. The 16-member state delegation is nearing the end of the trade mission, which kicked off in Spain with business-to-business meetings, networking opportunities and visits to several companies with a major…
Huntsville high-tech startup RadioBro opens Germany office
HUNTSVILLE, Alabama – RadioBro Corp., a start-up firm that makes miniature electronics systems for airplanes and spacecraft, has opened an office in Bremen, Germany, as it targets connections in the European aerospace industry. Brothers Mark, Eric and Daniel Becnel founded RadioBro in Huntsville in March 2014. The firm’s products include MiniSatCom, a lightweight spacecraft radio,…
