Governor Josh Stein hosted Dr. Kevin Rudd AC, the Australian Ambassador to the United States, at the Executive Mansion on Wednesday. The meeting underscored the ongoing economic ties between North Carolina and Australia.
“I was proud to welcome Ambassador Rudd to the Executive Mansion as we celebrated North Carolina’s strong and enduring bond with the people and nation of Australia,” said Governor Josh Stein. “In recent years, seven Australian companies have created more than 840 jobs here in North Carolina, and I look forward to working together with Australia as we continue our strong economic partnership.”
Dr. Kevin Rudd AC commented on North Carolina’s business environment during his visit. “From our great agricultural and mining companies to the pharmaceuticals industry, there’s a lot of action in North Carolina’s Research Triangle, and bucketloads of collaboration with Australian R&D institutions back home,” said Dr. Rudd. “North Carolina is a great place to do business. Thank you, Governor Stein, for the warm welcome.”
North Carolina was recently named America’s top state for business by CNBC (https://www.cnbc.com/2024/07/10/north-carolina-is-americas-top-state-for-business-in-2024.html), citing its favorable climate for businesses and workforce strength.
Since January, Governor Stein has announced over $19 billion in new investments in North Carolina along with more than 25,000 new jobs across various sectors.
The governor has also emphasized efforts to expand global market access for local businesses and attract international investment. In March, he recognized several state businesses for their export achievements. In June, he attended the Paris Air Show to promote North Carolina among international business leaders.
According to recent data from 2024, exports from North Carolina reached over $42.8 billion in goods and services sold to 215 countries and territories worldwide—including Australia.
Over the past decade, seven Australian firms have either established or expanded operations within North Carolina—leading to more than 840 jobs created and investments exceeding $237 million.
