A cut above.
Unprecedented growth.
Alabama is a forestry powerhouse with over 23 million acres of forestland, covering 69% of its land. This abundant resource, coupled with a favorable climate for tree growth and a strategic Southeast location, makes it a major player in the forestry industry, leading to active investments in the state by prominent industry leaders like Georgia Pacific, Canfor and Weyerhaeuser.
23M
acres of timberland
124k
total industry
employment
1st
U.S. producer of
pulp & paper
$1.5B
in forestry product
exports in 2024
Scope of the industry
The industry’s scope is massive in Alabama, with the total value of manufactured products exceeding $12.5 billion annually, according to the American Forest & Paper Association. Alabama employment in forestry and logging, wood products, and pulp and paper totals almost 40,000, with annual payroll income topping $2.4 billion. The state is home to over 110 manufacturing facilities including sawmills, paper mills and other production sites
Latest Forestry Products News
Georgia-Pacific to invest $800 million in Alabama River Cellulose Mill
PERDUE HILL, Alabama — Georgia-Pacific announced today that it plans to invest $800 million to modernize, expand and streamline the production capabilities of the company’s Alabama River Cellulose mill, making the Monroe County facility the largest softwood pulp mill in the U.S.
September 10, 2025
Why Alabama?
You can make it here in Alabama.
Alabama is a state of makers, builders, and doers. So, whatever you make or build, you can do it in Alabama. We’re a launching point for aerospace, aviation, and defense. A leader in automotive production. A home for startups, technology, and research breakthroughs. And drawing on our manufacturing roots, we’re helping to usher in the industrial evolution in America.
Logistics & Infrastructure
Alabama’s prime location in the South and on the Gulf Coast grants it nearly unlimited access to the national and international markets. Alabama sits within a one day drive to all of the South and its nearly 150M residents.
Workforce & Training
Alabama’s strong workforce is a major attraction for businesses worldwide, driven by our commitment to skill development. Industry leaders like Mercedes-Benz and Airbus have benefited from on-site training programs in partnership with state workforce agencies; and our state’s focus on education and industrial training through colleges further strengthens Alabama’s appeal to businesses.
Taxes & Incentives
Alabama’s business approach is very inviting, offering global companies incentives, tax benefits, a skilled workforce, and excellent real estate options. Low taxes, affordable utilities, and a reasonable cost of living boost profits, and the state ensure ideal site locations and attractive incentives for long-term success in Alabama.
Project Assistance
Alabama’s Business Development Division actively seeks corporate investors, promotes global expansion for local companies, supports small businesses, and collaborates with various stakeholders for comprehensive investor support. The state also engages with communities to enhance competitiveness and contribute significantly to Alabama’s economic growth strategy, making the state attractive to investors, businesses, and job seekers.