The Alabama Department of Commerce and Export Alabama will lead a delegation to LIGNA, held in Hannover, Germany, May 26-30, 2025.
Alabama is a powerhouse in the forestry industry, with more than 23 million acres of forestland covering 69% of the state. This vast and sustainably managed resource, combined with Alabama’s favorable climate for tree growth and its strategic location in the Southeast U.S., positions the state as a major player in both domestic and international forestry markets. From timber production and wood products to advanced forest management technologies, Alabama has long been recognized as a leader in sustainable forestry practices and innovation.
To further elevate the state’s position on the global stage, Made in Alabama will exhibit at LIGNA 2025, the world’s leading trade fair for woodworking and wood processing plants, machinery, and tools. Held in Hannover, Germany, LIGNA attracts industry professionals from across the globe and offers a premier platform for businesses to showcase their capabilities, network with international partners, and explore emerging market opportunities.
Alongside statewide economic development partners and the Alabama Forestry Commission, Alabama firms will have the opportunity to display their innovative solutions and highlight the state’s forestry industry within the Made in Alabama booth. This opportunity offers Alabama’s forestry industry an invaluable opportunity to expand its reach into Europe, strengthen existing relationships, and build new partnerships. With a strong presence at this leading trade fair, Alabama companies can showcase their innovative solutions, promote sustainable practices, and help meet the growing demand for eco-friendly, high-quality wood products across Europe. This mission is a key part of Alabama’s broader strategy to increase exports, enhance economic growth, and solidify its position as a global leader in the forestry industry.
In-Country Schedule
Saturday, May 25
Arrive Hannover
Sunday, May 26
LIGNA Trade Fair
Monday, May 27
LIGNA Trade Fair
Tuesday, May 28
LIGNA Trade Fair
Tuesday, May 29
LIGNA Trade Fair
Thursday, May 30
LIGNA Trade Fair
Friday, May 31
Depart Hannover for the United States
*Note: The final schedule will be provided by the Alabama Department of Commerce upon confirmation and is subject to change.
Participation Requirements/Conditions of Participation
All parties interested in participating in the trade mission must apply. All applicants will be evaluated on their ability to meet certain conditions and best satisfy the selection criteria as outlined below.
Selection Criteria:
- Suitability of the applicant’s products or services to the market.
- The applicant’s potential for business in the markets, including likelihood of exports resulting from the mission.
- The applicant’s ability to clearly state goals and objectives that fall within the stated scope of the mission.
- Responsiveness of the applicant and their ability to provide the necessary participating documentation.
Fees and Expenses
The participation fee to co-exhibit in the Made in Alabama booth at LIGNA is $6,000 for small- and mid-sized businesses (grant funding through the U.S. Small Business Administration may be available to eligible firms) and universities; and $7,500 for large firms. Economic development organizations and associations will have a participation fee of $1,500. Each additional representative from a participating firm is an additional $750. Expenses for travel, lodging, meals, and incidentals will be the responsibility of each mission participant. Interpreter and driver services for business appointments can be arranged for additional costs.
If a visa is required to travel on a particular mission, applying for and obtaining such a visa will be the responsibility of the mission participant. Instructions on the procedures required to obtain business visas will be shared with each participant.
Trade mission delegates participate in trade missions and undertake mission-related travel at their own risk. The nature of the security situation in each foreign market at a given time cannot be guaranteed. The U.S. Department of State issues U.S. Government international travel alerts and warnings for U.S. citizens available at https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html.
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