By SCBIZ Daily Staff

South Carolina sees plenty of business opportunities in Nova Scotia, says Mark Condon, the executive director of the South Carolina World Trade Center.

"It needs to be noted that Canada is still the No. 1 trade partner with the U.S. It’s still the natural market for all of us to grow," Condon said in the Halifax Chronicle Herald. Condon was in Halifax on Tuesday speaking to the World Trade Center Atlantic Canada’s annual business forum on the potential for local companies to succeed in the U.S. and Germany.

"I think on the Canadian side, it’s not nearly as problematic as … China and South America (that have) the biggest hurdles to get over in security issues."

Canadian companies and services "are highly respected" and he suggested businesses here look at the benefits of the South Carolina region as a gateway to the international market, he said.

"We’re a great new market. I think we’re an easier market than New England," he said, mentioning advantages such as the friendliness of the people, the comparable size of the markets, quick flights to Charleston, population growth and a commitment to attract new business.

Large international companies such as Michelin and BMW have set up shop in the area, providing one in every 10 jobs, while the automotive and aeronautical sectors are growing. The local economy is moving away from its rural, agricultural and textiles base toward more high-tech industries, including jobs that involve assembling mostly imported components and research.

"These companies are looking for anybody from anywhere that has a good product," he said.