South Carolina’s export industry reached new heights in 2024, with total export sales hitting $38 billion, the highest volume since 2019, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce.
Governor Henry McMaster, along with the South Carolina Department of Commerce (S.C. Commerce) and South Carolina Ports (SC Ports), announced the milestone, highlighting the state’s continued success in global trade.
Automotive Industry Leads the Way
The automotive sector remained the state’s dominant export industry, generating sales more than double that of the next largest industry—aircraft and aerospace components. South Carolina retained its title as the nation’s top exporter of both completed passenger vehicles and tires, while also ranking second in the export of ball and roller bearings.
The state’s top five exported commodities in 2024 were:
- Passenger vehicles
- Aircraft and parts
- Machinery and parts (including turbojets, turbopropellers, gas turbines, and ball bearings)
- Plastics
- Rubber (tires)
Economic Growth and Global Impact
Governor McMaster praised South Carolina’s workforce and business community for their role in making the state a global trade leader.
“South Carolina’s business community and workforce continue to produce top-quality products, and the world has taken notice,” said McMaster. “As the national leader in export sales of passenger vehicles and tires, we are further strengthening our reputation as one of the best states in the country to do business, which will help attract even more capital investment and opportunities for our people.”
With strong port infrastructure and a skilled workforce, South Carolina continues to attract major manufacturers and maintain its position as a key player in global commerce.
Sign up for our Sunday Spectator. Delivered to your inbox every Sunday, with all the news from the week.
