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Welcome to The Global Exchange — your source for the latest updates, upcoming events and resources from Ohio REALTORS® Global to help you stay connected and grow your global real estate perspective.

Don't forget to check out our upcoming events!

Partner Spotlight: AREAA Columbus

The Columbus chapter of the Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA) is helping connect real estate professionals through networking, education, advocacy, and community engagement opportunities.

AREAA is a national organization dedicated to promoting sustainable homeownership opportunities and supporting real estate professionals serving diverse communities. The Columbus chapter continues to grow its impact by bringing together industry leaders and fostering meaningful connections throughout Central Ohio.

Interested in expanding your network and getting involved? The Columbus chapter invites Ohio REALTORS® members to attend upcoming events and explore leadership opportunities.

Northeast Ohio

Japanese Automotive Manufacturer Expands in Ohio

Ohio continues to demonstrate why it is a premier destination for international investment. Earlier this year, Japan-based Newman Technology, Inc. announced a $74 million expansion of its Mansfield operations, creating 70 new jobs while retaining more than 600 existing positions. The investment will allow the company to add new production lines and expand its manufacturing capabilities.

The announcement is another example of how global companies continue to choose Ohio for growth. Despite having opportunities to expand elsewhere, Newman Technology cited Ohio's skilled workforce, strong manufacturing environment, and supportive economic development partners as key reasons for its decision.

Manufacturing Growth Drives Investment in Northeast Ohio

Ohio's manufacturing sector continues to attract investment and create opportunities across the state. Earlier this year, East Trailers announced a major expansion of its operations in Randolph Township, investing $3 million to increase production capacity, add new product lines, and create 175 new jobs while retaining 435 existing positions. The company is part of Mexico-based Fultra, which acquired East Trailers in 2023 and has continued investing in its Ohio operations.

The expansion highlights Ohio's strength as a manufacturing hub and demonstrates how international investment supports local communities. New jobs and business growth help drive demand for housing, commercial development, and infrastructure improvements, creating opportunities that extend far beyond the factory floor.

Northwest Ohio

Canadian Investment Strengthens Northwest Ohio

International investment continues to create opportunities across Ohio, and a recent announcement in Northwest Ohio is another example of the state's growing global appeal.

Canada-based V-Rod USA, a division of Pultrall and a leading manufacturer of fiberglass rebar, announced plans to invest more than $7 million to establish a new manufacturing facility in Edon, Ohio. The project is expected to create 60 new jobs and expand the company's ability to serve the growing U.S. construction and infrastructure markets.

Fiberglass rebar is increasingly used in bridges, roads, and other infrastructure projects because of its durability and resistance to corrosion. As demand for resilient infrastructure grows, Ohio's manufacturing strength and strategic location continue to attract companies from around the world.

Central Ohio

Belgian Company Expands Investment in Columbus

International investment continues to strengthen Ohio's economy and create opportunities across the state. Earlier this year, Belgium-based Dupon USA announced plans to build a new $33 million manufacturing facility in Columbus, creating 60 new jobs while retaining 28 existing positions. The new 175,000-square-foot facility will produce baked wafers, cookies, and crunch products used by ice cream manufacturers and food producers throughout North America.

Dupon USA's decision to expand in Columbus highlights Ohio's growing reputation as a destination for foreign direct investment. Company leaders cited the region's infrastructure, business climate, and access to major markets as key factors in their decision. The project also reinforces Central Ohio's strength in food production, logistics, and advanced manufacturing.

Global Investment Continues to Strengthen Ohio's Economy

International investment continues to play a major role in Ohio's economic success. According to JobsOhio, more than 4,000 international establishments from 42 countries have chosen to grow their operations in Ohio, creating jobs, investing in communities, and strengthening local economies. JobsOhio and its partners have supported more than 600 international projects, generating over $18 billion in capital investment and more than 45,000 jobs across the state.

For REALTORS®, these investments often translate into increased demand for housing, commercial development, infrastructure improvements, and workforce growth. As companies from around the world continue to choose Ohio, the connection between global business and local real estate becomes increasingly important.

Ohio Named No. 1 State in the Midwest for Business

Ohio continues to earn national recognition as a premier destination for business growth and investment. According to a recent survey of CEOs from across the country, Ohio was ranked the No. 1 state in the Midwest for business and among the top states nationally for its business climate, workforce, infrastructure, and economic development efforts.

The ranking reflects years of strategic investment in Ohio's workforce, innovation ecosystem, transportation network, and business-friendly environment. Companies across advanced manufacturing, technology, life sciences, aerospace, and logistics continue to choose Ohio for expansion, creating jobs and strengthening communities throughout the state.

This recognition reinforces Ohio's growing role in the global economy. International companies continue to select Ohio for major investments, citing the state's skilled workforce, strategic location, and strong quality of life. These investments create lasting benefits for residents, businesses, and the real estate industry alike.

Why Foreign Direct Investment Matters to Ohio

When international companies choose where to invest, the benefits extend far beyond the businesses themselves. Foreign direct investment (FDI) creates jobs, supports local economies, drives innovation, and increases demand for housing and commercial development.

According to fDi Intelligence, a publication of the Financial Times focused on global investment trends, the United States continues to be one of the world's most attractive destinations for foreign investment. Global companies are increasingly investing in technology, advanced manufacturing, energy, logistics, and infrastructure projects that support long-term economic growth.

Ohio has been a major beneficiary of this trend. From automotive manufacturing and food production to data centers and advanced technology, international companies continue to choose Ohio because of its strategic location, skilled workforce, strong infrastructure, and business-friendly environment. These investments create opportunities for communities across the state and contribute to increased demand for residential and commercial real estate.

Foreign Direct Investment Continues to Power Ohio's Economy

International investment remains a key driver of Ohio's economic success. According to the latest Ohio Foreign Direct Investment Fact Sheet from SelectUSA, more than 322,900 Ohio jobs are directly supported by majority foreign-owned companies, demonstrating the significant impact international businesses have on communities across the state.

Ohio continues to be a leading destination for global investment, with nearly 500 announced greenfield projects over the past decade. Japan, Germany, Canada, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom rank among the state's top sources of foreign direct investment, helping fuel growth in manufacturing, automotive, industrial equipment, food production, real estate, and other industries.

U.S. Economy Shows Continued Growth in First Quarter of 2026

The U.S. economy continued to expand during the first quarter of 2026, according to the latest estimates from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA). Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) increased at an annual rate of 1.6%, an improvement over the 0.5% growth recorded during the fourth quarter of 2025. Growth was driven by exports, business investment, consumer spending, and government spending.

While the pace of growth was revised lower from the initial estimate, several indicators point to continued economic resilience. Business investment remained strong, particularly in equipment and technology-related spending, while corporate profits continued to rise during the quarter.

As we move further into 2026, economic indicators will continue to be closely watched for signs of sustained growth and opportunities across Ohio's residential and commercial real estate markets.

International Trade Remains a Key Driver of Economic Growth

Global trade continues to play an important role in the U.S. economy. According to the latest report from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), the U.S. trade deficit increased to $60.3 billion in March 2026 as imports grew faster than exports. Exports reached $320.9 billion, while imports totaled $381.2 billion during the month.

Despite the monthly increase in the trade deficit, international trade activity remains strong. U.S. exports increased by $6.2 billion in March, reflecting continued demand for American goods and services around the world. At the same time, businesses continued investing in equipment, technology, and other imported products that support economic growth.