​​​​​​​​International Profile

The Language of Business is Spoken Here.

Global trade is big business in Virginia Beach, with over ​50 international-based firms having their U.S. or North American headquarters here. It is why so many  international companies decide to relocate and grow here – from consumer product giants like STIHL and KETTLER, to industrial powerhouses like Busch, Hermes, an​​d IMS:Gear. They understand we are on their side, providing a low-tax, business-friendly environment that encourages business expansion, not only in the United States, but also worldwide.
 
Because of the large volume of global trade that takes place in the Virginia Beach area, businesses have access to some of the best international business law and immigration attorneys in the United States. Moreover, most banks in the area are also experienced in conduction international financial transactions. For more resources, click here.
 

In addition to the Virginia Beach location, the Virginia Beach Department of Economic Development has established offices in Germany and Spain to offer assistance to companies abroad that are interested in establishing or expanding in Virginia Beach.

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 Our Advantages
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fDi Magazine ranked Virginia Beach as the best mid-sized City in the U.S. The City's infrastructure and economic potential were also ranked in the top 10 for mid-sized Cities in the Western Hemisphere.

Lower Taxes, Higher Profits

International companies will find a relatively uncomplicated and equitable tax structure that allows them to focus on growing their business. Learn more about tax rates and the cost of doing business.

Virginia Beach MSA: A Closer Look

The region's  strategic location in the heart of the mid-Atlantic, coupled with logistical assets including international airports and the fast-growing Port of Virginia, make it an ideal gateway to the U.S. market for international companies.
40 percent of all United States consumers are within one day’s drive of the region. Source: HREDA
Great companies make their own success, but Virginia Beach offers powerful resources that offer even greater advantages in the U.S. and global markets.

Demographics

  • Largest city in Virginia and total metro population of 1.8 million
  • Within 1,200 kilometers of more than two-thirds of the U.S. manufacturing base
  • Home to nearly 200 foreign-based companies-representing more than 27 countries and 12 consulate offices

Workforce

  • Skilled workforce of more than 885,000 people—supported by innovative, advanced employee-training programs

International Community

  • International-level education systems
  • Direct access to experienced attorneys, local bankers and financial experts
  • Direct access to other international companies
  • ​Quick summ​ary
Fifty-seven percent of German companies in Virginia Beach serve as U.S. or North American headquarters for the parent company.
Germany also ranks #3 among international companies for employment in the Commonwealth of Virginia, behind Canada and the UK.

Cost of Doing Business

  • Stable state and local governments that are receptive to your business needs
  • Eliminated taxes on machinery and tool equipment for manufacturers
  • New tax credit available to Virginia port users who increase cargo volume, use barge rail to move cargo, or create new jobs through capital investment

Transportation

Quality of Life 


 Locations
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USA Headquarters

4525 Main Street, Suite 700​

Virginia Beach, VA 23462

ecdev@vbgov.com   +1 (757) 385-6464

European Offices Contact Information

Spain: Vicente Álvarez Fanjul​

​Virginia Beach Economic Development, Representative Europe 
Valderribas, 14, 28007 Madrid, Spain
Email: valvarez@vbgov.com // Mobile: +34 639535736
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​Germany: Christine Krauss

Virginia Beach Economic Development, Representative Europe  
Munich, Germany
Email:  ckrauss@vbgov.com //  Phone: +34 691 806 505

​United Kingdom: Charles MacDowell

Virginia Beach Economic Development, Representative Europe  
Ipswich, United Kingdom
Email: cmacdowe@vbgov.com //  Phone: +447788755300