Georgia leaders recognize that personal relationships are key to developing strong global partnerships. In-person connections like those made during international trade visits are invaluable for creating strong ties that lead to further collaboration and investment in the state.  

In the largest international trade mission to Georgia since the 1996 Olympics, the state was honored in June to welcome a delegation of high-ranking Belgian officials, diplomats, and business leaders led by Her Royal Highness Princess Astrid of Belgium. The mission, which was rescheduled from June 2020 due to the pandemic, helped to promote expanding investment and trade between the state and its international partner. 

Over two days, the 300-person Belgian delegation, representing around 250 companies, convened with state and local officials and business leaders for a series of meetings, talks, and visits to Belgian businesses. Her Royal Highness (HRH) was accompanied by leadership from Flanders, Wallonia, and the Brussels capital region. 

Belgium is one of Georgia’s most important and strategic markets in Europe, and is Georgia’s 14th-largest trading partner. Georgia is also home to more Belgian companies than any other state in the U.S. Fifty-four Belgian companies have operations in the state, employing about nearly 5,000 people. 

In addition to meeting with Governor Brian Kemp, First Lady Marty Kemp, Georgia Department of Economic Development Commissioner Pat Wilson, and other state and local leaders, the mission also made stops at Belgian companies including pharmaceutical company UCB, which has its U.S. headquarters in Smyrna; plastics manufacturer Solvay in Alpharetta; and Manus Bio, a fermentation facility in Augusta.  

The main industries highlighted by the various programs and events included:  

• Cleantech, energy, and renewable energy 

• Life sciences, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals 

• Infrastructure, transport, and logistics 

• Artificial intelligence and digital technology 

• Agri-food 

• Smart economy: digital economy, fintech, and smart cities 

• Climate technology 

Georgia Department of Economic Development was proud to highlight these thriving sectors. Chief of Protocol Nico Wijnberg and International Relations Manager Coryn Marsik welcomed HRH and the heads of delegation to the Capitol. HRH cut the ribbon for a new lab expansion at Solvay, where Marsik and Deputy Commissioner Abby Turano joined in celebration. Wijnberg also represented the department at a reception hosted by Wallonia to celebrate the arrival of the delegation. 

This visit solidified the message that Belgium is a top priority market for Georgia and laid a foundation for future jobs and investment in the state.  

Georgia-based businesses looking to expand into new international markets should visit www.georgia.org/international/trade to learn more about the services the International Trade team provides. 

Georgia is the top state for business, with assets such as a business-friendly atmosphere, advanced connectivity to diverse markets, and a moderate climate. To learn what more Georgia has to offer, contact us at: www.georgia.org/about-us/contact-us.