Fulton County Commission Chairman Robb Pitts recently made a trip to Korea and Taiwan as part of an economic development mission to discuss partnerships in Fulton County and Asia.
“These relationships are unprecedented and exciting,” said Pitts. “Think of all we can accomplish when our great county teams up with these impressive countries to share resources on education, as well as cultural and economic development. The possibilities are endless.” 
Korea is a top five trading partner for the state, behind China, Mexico, Germany and Canada. Georgia’s partners are closely reflective of the country as a whole, where Korea is the U.S.’ sixth largest partner, with Japan taking the 4 spot in the top 5. Taiwan is in the top 15 for Georgia trading partners, and nearly in the top 10 for imports – Maxxis tires for example are a top Taiwanese investment in the state, operating here since 1997 with a major facility in Newnan.
“Fulton County is the home to the largest economy in Georgia, and I believe establishing strong business ties with Korea will yield economic growth for both parties,” said Pitts. “Korea’s technology is impressive, and many regions there are viewed as national leaders in modernization. Working with them will ensure Fulton County is prepared to meet the needs of the changing economy.”
Korean trade has exploded over the past few years, with growth from $7.9 billion in 2020 to more than $13 billion in 2022 – growth of more than 65 percent. Investment from the Korean conglomerate SK, notably on the electric battery front, is a large part of that growth. SK Innovation opened its $2.6 billion battery plant in Commerce last year and is expected to open another plant in Cartersville in 2025 as part of a joint $4+ billion investment with Hyundai.
Fulton’s status as home to a number of major universities is a major draw for international universities, in addition to the international population in the county. More than 70,000 residents in Fulton and Gwinnett counties are Korean and approximately 120 Korean companies have a presence in the state.
“Since Fulton is rich in excellent universities and human resources, let’s work together to promote exchanges and cooperation with universities,” said Cheol-Woo Lee, the Governor of North Gyeongsang Province in South Korea.
Pitts noted the increasing importance of international trade and he is working on a trip planned for next year with a larger delegation of business and political leaders.
“We cannot sit back and wait for opportunities to come to us,” said Pitts. “I hit the road – and will continue doing so — to seek opportunities that will spark our economy and benefit our citizens in Fulton County. I am showcasing all that Fulton has to offer to the world. We are strong in business, education and quality of life and these partnerships will only make us stronger.”
