News Summary
Governor Kay Ivey recognized five Alabama companies for their exceptional contributions to international trade during a ceremony at the State Capitol. The companies, honored with the 2025 Governor’s Trade Excellence Awards, exemplify global success and support Alabama’s economy. Among the honorees was Mercedes-Benz U.S. International, which has helped enhance the state’s global business reputation. Governor Ivey declared May as ‘World Trade Month,’ emphasizing Alabama’s strong export performance, which reached $26.8 billion, reflecting a significant growth in recent years.
Montgomery, Alabama – Governor Kay Ivey recently honored five Alabama companies for their exceptional performance in international trade during a ceremony at the State Capitol. The event highlighted the recipients of the 2025 Governor’s Trade Excellence Awards, which acknowledge businesses that significantly contribute to the state’s economy through their global success and promote the “Made in Alabama” brand.
Among the recipients was Mercedes-Benz U.S. International, which was recognized for its role in enhancing Alabama’s global business reputation through robust export activities. Governor Ivey took the opportunity to proclaim May as “World Trade Month” in Alabama, underscoring the importance of international trade in economic development.
Governor Ivey emphasized that the achievements of these exporters demonstrate that Alabama businesses have the capability to compete effectively on the international stage. This recognition comes at a time when Alabama has seen substantial growth in its export activities. In 2024, the state reached $26.8 billion in exports, marking the second-highest total on record and showing nearly a 30% increase from pre-pandemic levels. Exports from Alabama reached a diverse range of 194 countries, driven primarily by the demand for motor vehicles.
Recognized Companies
The five Alabama companies honored with the 2025 Governor’s Trade Excellence Awards include:
- Central Steel Service (Pelham): A distributor of corrosion-resistant steel products exporting to countries such as Canada, Mexico, and Australia.
- SEA Wire and Cable (Huntsville): A supplier of aerospace and military wire and cable products, serving clients in over a dozen countries worldwide.
- Silver Ships (Theodore): A manufacturer of aluminum workboats that has recently expanded its customer base to include Montenegro and the Philippines.
- Special Shapes Refractory Co. (Bessemer): A producer of custom refractory components that exports products to international markets including France, India, and Argentina.
- System Studies & Simulation Inc. (Huntsville): A defense contractor specializing in flight training and technical services, with operations present in over 24 international locations.
Recognition of Leadership in Trade
In addition to the company awards, Mike Lee of Page & Jones was recognized for his decades-long leadership in international logistics. As a licensed Customs House Broker, Lee plays a pivotal role in facilitating Alabama’s maritime trade and supporting local businesses in their efforts to navigate global markets.
Christina Stimpson, Chief Officer of Global Business for the Alabama Department of Commerce, praised Lee as a tireless advocate for trade and commerce in the state. The Alabama Department of Commerce’s Global Business Office provides essential training, market insights, and international connections to further assist Alabama businesses in accessing global opportunities.
Economic Impact of Trade
Alabama’s remarkable performance in international trade also correlates with its growing foreign direct investment (FDI), which reached $3.5 billion last year. This influx of investment has stimulated job growth across key industries and fostered a vibrant environment for business expansion within the state.
The awards ceremony reflects the importance of recognizing and supporting Alabama’s exporters, who play a vital role in sustaining the state’s economy and enhancing its presence on the world stage.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Business Alabama
- Made in Alabama
- WSFA
- Wikipedia: International Trade
- Google Search: Governor Kay Ivey international trade
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
