ATLANTA (September 5, 2013) – Senator Charlie Bethel (R – Dalton) has returned from a nine-day business, trade and tourism mission to Asia led by Governor Nathan Deal on which Sen. Bethel served as an official delegate appointed by the Governor. From August 22 – 30, a group of business leaders and elected officials from Georgia traveled in China and Japan to strengthen existing ties and explore new investment opportunities between Georgia and these important Asian nations.
“From my perspective, the trip was focused on three key activities: building upon existing and developing new relationships; designating an official trade representative for the State of Georgia in Qingdao, China; and celebrating the 40th anniversary of our very successful trade office to Japan in Tokyo,” said Bethel. “Georgia’s reputation as a competitive location for global business is linked to our ability to cultivate and strengthen strategic partnerships with people, businesses, and governments all over the world. It was an honor to accompany Governor Deal as a delegate and meet with business and government leaders in Asia.”
On August 29, the delegation celebrated the 40th anniversary of Georgia’s oldest international economic development office in Japan. Over 20,000 jobs and $4.6 billion in investment in the state have been generated by this specific location. The celebration was an opportunity to thank existing investors and introduce new investors to Georgia’s business strengths and incentives.
The long-standing relationship between the State of Georgia and China has strengthened the economy of both. Georgia exports more than $3.6 billion in products to China making her the state’s second-largest export destination. Georgia also leads the nation in carpet, poultry, aircraft and wood product exports to China. In addition, Chinese companies with operations in the state employ hundreds of Georgians.
“While the entire nation of China represents enormous potential for our state, I believe our strategic focus on the Shandong Province through our representative in Qingdao will prove to be highly beneficial to that Province and Georgia,” added Senator Bethel.
RELEASE
For Immediate Release:
September 5, 2013
For Information Contact:
Jennifer Yarber, Director
Jennifer.Yarber@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028