Gov. Kemp leads delegation on economic mission to South America

Governor Brian P. Kemp announced that he and First Lady Marty Kemp will lead a trade mission to Brazil and Argentina this week, aiming to boost economic development opportunities that benefit Georgia residents. The delegation includes Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper, representatives from the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD), the Georgia Department of Agriculture, and the Georgia Ports Authority.

The trip will include meetings with companies already operating or planning projects in Georgia, as well as diplomatic engagements. The delegation will also celebrate 30 years since the opening of Georgia’s economic office in Brazil. In Argentina, General Richard "Dwayne" Wilson will join meetings with members of the Georgia National Guard and their Argentinian counterparts under the Department of Defense State Partnership Program.

“Companies from South America have invested over $160 million in Georgia over the last six years, with the bulk of investments and jobs coming from countries where Georgia is represented,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “Since I took office, businesses that operate in Brazil have created over a thousand jobs for Georgians, with many investments strengthening established sectors like our No. 1 industry of agriculture. We're always eager to grow those pipelines of opportunity so more Georgians in all parts of the state can benefit. Likewise, we look forward to thanking the brave men and women of the Georgia Guard and their partners in Argentina who are supporting our shared security goals."

Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper highlighted efforts to expand markets for farmers through international relationships: "I’m proud to join Governor Kemp, Commissioner Wilson, and other state leaders on this important trade mission to South America, and I look forward to working with our partners in Brazil and Argentina to continue to build upon our already strong relationship," said Harper. "The success of Georgia’s #1 industry depends on our farmers' ability to get their goods to market, and leveraging Georgia’s port system and reducing trade barriers with countries around the globe are vital components of ensuring the continued success of Georgia agriculture and our state as a whole."

Pat Wilson, GDEcD Commissioner, noted ongoing partnerships: “This year is the 30th anniversary of Georgia’s representation in Brazil, an incredible milestone for one of the state’s top 20 trade partners and proof of Georgia’s lasting partnerships in international markets,” said Wilson. “Through our ports and collaborations such as the Delta Air Lines-LATAM partnership, Georgia’s connectivity to South America means opportunity. Brazil and Argentina are home to some of the largest agriculture and infrastructure companies in South America, aligning with Georgia’s strong agribusiness and food and beverage industries as well as the state’s continued growth and investments in infrastructure development.”

Brazil has maintained consular ties with Georgia since 1899; continuous representation began in 1995. In 2024 alone, exports from Georgia to Brazil reached $748 million. Similarly, Argentina established its consular presence in 1899; currently a representative based in Chile covers both markets for trade matters. Exports from Georgia to Argentina totaled $120 million during 2024.

Several companies highlight existing business links between these regions:

- JBS supports about 9,000 jobs across Georgia via Pilgrim's subsidiary; Pilgrim's plans a new facility expected to employ over 600 people.

- Taurus moved its U.S. headquarters—and manufacturing—to Bainbridge five years ago.

- CSN contributes infrastructure support through steel production.

- Embraer maintains aircraft at Middle Georgia Regional Airport.

- GranBio operates research facilities focused on biorefinery technology.

- AGCO has expanded globally since being founded locally; it maintains facilities throughout South America.

- Guidoni Group invested approximately $100 million into its McRae location.

- BERSA runs a production site out of Cartersville.

These developments underscore ongoing efforts by state officials aimed at strengthening commercial relationships while expanding job opportunities within key sectors such as agriculture.