News Summary
On May 7, 2025, Governor Kay Ivey celebrated five Alabama companies for their outstanding contributions to international trade during the Governor’s Trade Excellence Awards at the Alabama State Capitol. This annual event recognizes businesses that significantly impact Alabama’s economy and promote the ‘Made in Alabama’ brand. With Alabama achieving $26.8 billion in export figures in 2024, the event underscores the importance of global trade for state businesses. Special acknowledgment was given to Mercedes-Benz U.S. International for enhancing Alabama’s global reputation.
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA — Governor Kay Ivey honored five Alabama companies for their international achievements on May 7, 2025, during the Governor’s Trade Excellence Awards ceremony held at the Alabama State Capitol. This annual event celebrates businesses that excel in global trade, contributing significantly to the state’s economy and promoting the “Made in Alabama” brand.
The companies recognized this year include Central Steel Service, SEA Wire and Cable, Silver Ships, Special Shapes Refractory Company, and System Studies & Simulation, Inc. These businesses were chosen based on their export sales growth, management commitment to developing export markets, and their overall contribution to Alabama’s economic landscape.
Additionally, Mercedes-Benz U.S. International received special recognition for its role in enhancing Alabama’s reputation on the global business stage through significant export activity. The event also coincided with the official proclamation of May as World Trade Month in Alabama, highlighting the state’s initiatives to promote international trade.
In 2024, Alabama achieved remarkable export figures totaling $26.8 billion, a nearly 30% increase compared to pre-pandemic levels, marking it as the second-highest export total in the state’s history. Alabama-made products were sent to 194 countries, primarily driven by a surge in motor vehicle demand.
Ellen McNair, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce, emphasized the importance of international engagement as a growth opportunity for the state’s businesses. She stated that expanding international markets could lead to further economic development across Alabama.
Another notable recognition during the ceremony was awarded to Mike Lee of Page & Jones, who was honored for his extensive leadership in the fields of international logistics and maritime trade over several decades. His contributions significantly shape Alabama’s trade infrastructure.
Silver Ships, a company specializing in aluminum workboats, reported that export sales accounted for 34% of their annual sales in 2023, although this figure decreased to 7.5% in 2024. The company actively participated in the U.S. Navy’s Foreign Military Sale (FMS) program, successfully delivering patrol boats to countries such as Montenegro and Guatemala. Silver Ships’ CEO highlighted the continued commitment to expanding their presence in international markets.
The Trade Excellence Awards were organized by a panel from Export Alabama, which carefully selected awardees based on established criteria that assess each company’s export performance and commitment to global markets. Christina Stimpson, Chief Officer of Global Business for the Alabama Department of Commerce, acknowledged the invaluable contributions of Mike Lee, underlining his pivotal role in developing and ensuring the efficiency of Alabama’s trade and logistics capabilities.
The trade accomplishments celebrated at this year’s ceremony underscore the vital role exports play in Alabama’s economy, fostering employment and economic growth in the region. With ongoing initiatives such as World Trade Month, state leaders aim to inspire more businesses to explore and expand their export opportunities in the global market.
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