TACCS and Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce Forge Historic Strategic Alliance to Accelerate Bilateral Trade and Economic Development

GWINNETT COUNTY, GA — In a landmark move that further solidifies Georgia’s position as a premier hub for global commerce, the Turkish American Chamber of Commerce of the South (TACCS) has officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce. This strategic partnership established a formal framework to enhance bilateral trade, foster foreign direct investment (FDI), and create robust market expansion opportunities for both Turkish and American enterprises.

The signing ceremony brought together top executive leadership from both organizations, marking a new chapter of economic synergy between the dynamic business ecosystems of the Southeastern United States and the Republic of Türkiye.

This alliance comes at a critical juncture in international trade. Georgia currently ranks among the top three states nationwide for Turkish-American trade volume, an impressive metric that underscores the state’s logistical advantages, pro-business climate, and strategic global connectivity. By formalizing this partnership, TACCS and the Gwinnett Chamber are uniquely positioned to capitalize on this momentum and drive regional economic output even further.

Why Gwinnett? A Powerhouse of Global Enterprise
The Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce is a powerhouse of global enterprise; it is an economic juggernaut. As a Five-Star Accredited Chamber by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce—a distinction held by fewer than 2% of chambers nationwide—it represents one of the most dynamic, rapidly growing, and internationally diverse counties in the Southeast. With a GDP output that rivals entire nations and a business ecosystem deeply rooted in innovation, manufacturing, and technology, Gwinnett County serves as the ideal launchpad for Turkish businesses seeking to penetrate the U.S. market. The Chamber’s robust network will provide TACCS members with unprecedented access to local market intelligence, policy advocacy, and B2B matchmaking.

TACCS is the catalyst for Turkish-American businesses. As the leading voice for Turkish-American commerce in the Southern United States, TACCS continues to be the vital bridge connecting cross-continental supply chains and entrepreneurial ventures. This MOU amplifies TACCS’s mission to not only support existing Turkish enterprises in the U.S. but also to facilitate seamless market entry for new investors.

Key strategic objectives of the MOU include:

Enhanced Market Access: Streamlining the transition for Turkish businesses entering the Georgia market and vice versa.

Economic Development & FDI: Collaborating on targeted initiatives to attract foreign direct investment into Gwinnett County while opening doors for Georgia-based companies in Türkiye.

Resource Sharing & Networking: Co-hosting high-level protocol events, executive roundtables, and trade delegations. The MOU was formally executed by the executive boards of both chambers

Representing the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce were:

  • Kim Hartsock, Board Chair
  • Nick Masino, President & CEO
  • Kevin Carmichael, Senior Vice President of Economic Development
  • Paul Oh, Vice President of Public Policy & External Affairs
  • Representing TACCS in this momentous agreement were:
  • Erhan Çevikel, President & CEO
  • Gökhan Yavuz, Chief Commercial Officer (CCO)
  • Tolbert Yılmaz, Distinguished TACCS Member
  • Muzaffer Sarıtaş, Distinguished TACCS Member

This Memorandum of Understanding is more than just a formal agreement; it is a strategic blueprint for the future. By aligning our resources with the Gwinnett Chamber, we are building a high-speed commercial corridor that will empower our members, create high-value jobs, and ensure that Georgia remains the epicenter of Turkish-American trade for decades to come.

Moving forward, TACCS and the Gwinnett Chamber will establish a joint task force to implement the initiatives outlined in the MOU, ensuring immediate and measurable benefits for their respective business communities.

  • (For media inquiries or further information regarding this partnership, please contact the TACCS communications office.)