Growing Florida’s Manufacturing Industry
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Why It Matters to Florida
Did you know manufacturing contributes more than $40 billion to Florida’s economy?
In fact, manufacturing jobs are estimated to grow by four percent by 2021 and for every 10 jobs created in Florida’s export-oriented manufacturing, 12 more jobs are created in transportation, warehousing and retail. Florida has more than 360,000 manufacturing employees earning, on average, more than $54,000 annually, which is higher than the state’s average wage.
The impact of manufacturing on Florida’s global economy is significant. Growing Florida’s manufacturing industry is essential, especially as Florida continues to be a global hub for trade. Florida’s manufacturing industry provides more than 92 percent of Florida exports and creates private-sector jobs while diversifying Florida’s economy.
Florida’s Competitiveness Agenda
The impact that the manufacturing industry has on Florida is undeniable. In order to help continue growing Florida’s manufacturing industry, the Florida Chamber will continue to champion efforts that support Florida’s manufacturing industry. The Florida Chamber is committed to following the recommendations in the Trade and Logistics 2.0 Report, which seeks to create 150,000 new jobs in industries like trade, logistics, manufacturing and exporting.
As Florida’s economy moves toward innovation and high wage, high-value jobs in emerging industries, we must have the workforce ready to fill these new positions. With 265,200 jobs looking for people and 369,000 people looking for jobs, the problem isn’t workforce quantity, it’s workforce quality. A strong pool of globally competitive employees will be a powerful lure for businesses who hope to prosper in our state. Together we can ensure Florida remains a leader in producing a talented workforce for every industry.
The Fight for Free Enterprise Continues
Florida continues to move in the right direction by growing private-sector jobs, expanding new industries and strengthening international trade and logistics relationships. But our work is far from over. The Florida Chamber believes a globally competitive business climate helps businesses and families succeed. But in order to become the number one state in the nation for innovation and economic development, we must continue to attract and retain high-skill talent, target growing industries and continue to work toward the recommendations set forth in the Florida Chamber Foundation’s most recent Trade and Logistics Report.
Act Now
For more information on Trade and Logistics 2.0 recommendations or to engage your business in our international efforts, contact Alice Ancona at aancona@flchamber.com.