COLUMBIA, S.C. – Gov. Henry McMaster on Tuesday joined German Ambassador to the United States Jens Hanefeld to sign a Joint Declaration of Intent (JDI) establishing a formal economic partnership between South Carolina and Germany aimed at attracting new jobs and investment, accelerating innovation, and expanding business opportunities in the state.
“By establishing a formal economic partnership with Germany, we create yet another powerful tool for South Carolina to get ahead in the fierce competition for jobs and investment,” McMaster said. “Together, we will create more opportunities for our people and build an even brighter economic future.”
The agreement prioritizes collaboration in energy resiliency and sustainability, automotive and mobility technologies, and life sciences. The JDI establishes a working group that will meet to coordinate joint initiatives such as workforce development, identify opportunities for additional business partnerships, exchange technical and scientific information, and support research and development collaboration.
“The ties between Germany and South Carolina are an outstanding example of the transatlantic partnership. German efficiency and the strong work ethic of South Carolinians have created unparalleled success. I am pleased that we are taking the next step in this partnership today,” Hanefeld said.
According to the Department of Commerce, Germany is South Carolina’s largest export partner. In 2024, trade volume between the state and Germany totaled $13 billion. South Carolina is home to 270 German companies that employ more than 44,000 residents.
McMaster participated in economic development mission trips to Germany in June 2024 and July 2025 to strengthen partnerships with existing business partners and explore potential new projects.
Since taking office, McMaster has announced more than 98,200 new jobs and more than $53 billion in new capital investment. This calendar year alone, he has announced more than 6,000 new jobs and more than $8.2 billion in new investment.
A copy of the JDI can be found here.