World Trade Center Savannah's Celebrates International Business
For the sixth consecutive year, leaders from Coastal Georgia gathered to recognize the achievements of the international companies that do business in the region.
Hugh “Trip” Tollison, President and CEO of the World Trade Center Savannah (WTC) opened the event by thanking the more than 60 WTC partners and reflected on recent trade missions, including Marselle, France and Select USA.
“The global forum in Marseille, France was a big event for us. We had a lot of conversations about what is going on with the tariff landscape, and I think the theme that came out of that session was ‘stay calm and trade on.’ And that's what we're doing at the World Trade Center in Savannah,” Tollison shared.
Upon returning from the recent Select USA International Investment Summit, Tollison reflected on Team Georgia's past successes and the ongoing momentum of its project pipeline for new investment.
Flexibility is the New Efficiency
The optimism continued with the event’s keynote speaker, Peter S. Goodman. Goodman authored, “How the World Ran Out of Everything: Inside the Global Supply Chain,” a detailed account of the challenges faced during the Covid-19 Pandemic.
Sharing his personal challenges living through the pandemic with a newborn, an experience he said underscored the importance of understanding global logistics, revealed underlying issues in the global supply chain.
Goodman closed his keynote urging businesses and leaders to embrace flexibility. Globalization is transforming, and we must adapt to these changes to embrace modern flexibility.
And the Winner Is…
2025 World Trade Center Savannah International Business of the Year recipient went to Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA).
Hyundai Motor Group's investment in Georgia has been nothing short of transformational. Creating over 15,000 jobs from suppliers and employing 8,500 people directly, their commitment represents the single largest economic development deal in Georgia's history. This investment has doubled average wages in some communities and fostered economic development that will benefit generations to come.
Beyond being a significant employer, Hyundai has quickly become a good neighbor. Their response to recent weather events such as Hurricane Helene was immediate, providing financial assistance and sponsoring local initiatives. Additionally, the organization’s involvement in high school and college programs, as well as workforce development like RISE, showcases their dedication to nurturing future talent.
Despite being an international company, HMGMA's focus is decidedly local. Workers in Georgia produce electrified vehicles that will be in local dealerships and on roads for decades. Hyundai's commitment to building and assembling cars in the United States reinforces their long-term investment in the community.
A Bright Future
The investment from companies like HMGMA and other global firms, further demonstrates their commitment to the Georgia community and the region’s position for growth over the coming generations.
The role of partners like the World Trade Center Savannah and Georgia Ports Authority in this transformation is instrumental, creating opportunities for the flow of goods and setting a new standard in logistics and global trade.
Connect to the Coast
The Savannah, GA and coastal region continue to create new opportunities for business and residents alike. Explore this region by getting in touch with the Jason Coley, Regional Economic Development Manager Coastal Region.
