HOUSTON (May 2, 2024)— All metrics indicate Houston’s global economy is positioned for continued success, according to the Greater Houston Partnership’s 2024 Global Houston report. The report, which provides an analysis of the global economy and its tie to the Houston region, illustrates how Houston’s international activity in 2023 continued to set records: The Houston-Galveston Customs District continues to rank first in the country in tonnage handled (exports and imports) with over 404.7 million metric tons of goods and commodities, an increase of 6.4 percent from 2022. The Houston-Galveston Customs District ranked first in total value with $344.5 billion for the second consecutive year. Houston led the U.S. in exports, shipping more than $175.5 billion in goods and commodities. Foreign direct investment (FDI) remains strong, with an 18% increase as 52 foreign-owned companies with plans to relocate, expand or start operations, surpassing the 44 projects announced in 2022. The Houston Airport System handled 12.6 million international passengers, finally surpassing pre-COVID levels and setting a record. For the second consecutive year, international migration accounted for the largest share (37.6%) of the region’s population growth. The region attracted 52,500 migrants in 2023, an increase of more than 10% compared to 2022. According to the report, trade disputes, supply chain disruptions and geopolitical tensions remain as global challenges in 2024. Fortunately, foreign governments recognize Houston’s pivotal role in global trade and foreign investment. "While economists expect a slightly weaker year ahead, Houston's robust ties to global markets and the ongoing growth of our major trading partners will continue to support our economy," said Partnership Chief Economist and Senior Vice President of Research Patrick Jankowski. "We remain confident in the strength and resilience of Houston's global economy." The Global Houston report also provides additional statistics and information about Houston’s international business ties and ranks the region’s top 20 trade partners. Top 10 Houston trade partners and the value of trade in 2023: China -- $31.8 billion, down from $32.1 billion in 2022. Mexico -- $28.7 billion, down from $32.0 billion in 2022. Netherlands -- $26.5 billion, up from $19 billion in 2022. South Korea -- $22.9 billion, down from $24.7 billion in 2022. Brazil -- $15.6 billion, down from $20.3 billion in 2022. Germany -- $15.1 billion, up from $15.0 billion in 2022. Japan -- $13.1 billion, down from $14.2 billion in 2022. United Kingdom -- $13.1 billion, down from $15.9 billion in 2022. India -- $13.0 billion, down from $15.5 billion in 2022. Singapore -- $11.4 billion, down from $14.0 billion in 2022.

The Greater Houston Partnership welcomed 24 new member companies in the month of April. The Partnership works to connect companies with resources, information, and networking opportunities to help increase business while also providing a platform to influence the direction of the region.   New members who joined in the month of April include:  ARCADIS-US, Inc.: Arcadis-US offers infrastructure engineering and environmental, health and safety consulting services, technical analysis, design engineering, construction management, and environmental investigation and remediation services. Website.  Cafe Natalie Catering: Cafe Natalie Catering is a catering group based in Westchase, Houston, Texas. Website.   CellReady: CellReady is a biotechnology research company, providing cell and gene therapy (CGT) companies with an optimized, scalable, and standardized G-Rex centric cell manufacturing process. Website.  CLARK CONSTRUCTION GROUP, LLC: Clark Construction Group is a construction company with a portfolio spanning from public to private, corporate to cultural, education to entertainment, and the infrastructure connecting it all – power, transit, water, and roadways. Website.  Discovering U: Discovering U is a non-profit organization seeking to empower and connect the individual, the family, and the community with the information, knowledge, skills and resources needed to be successful. Website.  Heidrick & Struggles: Heidrick & Struggles is an Executive Search and Leadership Advisory service for companies worldwide in the profit and not-for-profit sectors. Website.  Houston Precision Fasteners: Houston Precision Fasteners is a manufacturer of aviation and aerospace fasteners and machined parts. Website.  Just Touch Interactive: Just Touch Interactive is a premier SBE certified and minority-owned company that provides high-fidelity 3D solutions for industrial and urban infrastructure projects.  Website.   KNJ Wealth Management Group LLC: KNJ Wealth Management Group provides financial planning, investment planning, small business owner business planning, estate planning, retirement planning and tax planning through seven subsidiary firms in Houston. Website.  M3 Technology Group: M3 Technology Group provides supply chain management solutions focused on enterprise planning advanced asset scheduling and blending optimization software. Website.  Marathon Capital: Marathon Capital is an independent investment bank. Website.  MWM Systems, LLC: MWM Systems is a consulting agency offering comprehensive diversity training programs designed to help your company. Website.  Nellons-Paige Group: Nellons-Paige Group is a consulting firm. Website.  Nexus PMG: Nexus PMG is a commercial and residential construction company. Website.  Octa Homes: Octa Homes is a real estate developer in Houston, Texas. Website.   P&A Recruiting LLC: Popham & Ashby (P&A) is a consultancy firm specializing in executive talent search and people abilities recruiting. Website.  Packwell: Packwell is a Plastic Bagging and Logistics company in Houston, Texas. Website.   PV Hardware Solutions: PV Hardware Solutions is a renewable energy equipment manufacturing company. Website.  Reddy Neumann Brown PC: Reddy Neumann Brown PC is an immigration law firm based in Houston, Texas. Website.  Rocket Ready-Mix: Rocket Ready-Mix is a concrete mix supplier for the construction industry in Houston Texas. Website.  SCS Technologies Ltd: SCS Technologies Ltd provides high-quality pioneering technologies, systems and services making technology. Website.  The Women's Home: The Women’s Home helps women in crisis regain their self-esteem and dignity, empowering them to return to society as productive, self-sufficient individuals. Website.  ThinkBig Productions: ThinkBig Productions specializes in award-winning corporate, documentary, and narrative videos. We are a full-service production company handling all aspects of moving images, from concept to post-production delivery. Website.  WASTELINQ, Inc.: WASTELINQ provides waste treatment technology for generators, service providers, and disposal facilities. Website.  Click here to see the Partnership's Membership Directory.   To learn more about membership with the Greater Houston Partnership click here, or contact membership@houston.org.