Ivey signs “Made in the USA” Day proclamation celebrating Alabama manufacturers

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey signed a proclamation Thursday recognizing July 2, 2026, as National “Made in the USA” Day in celebration of Alabama’s manufacturing industry.

“On ‘Made in the USA’ Day, we honor the hundreds of thousands of hardworking Alabamians from the Shoals to the Shore who drive our state’s growing economy while delivering ‘Made in Alabama’ products across the nation and around the world,” Ivey said.

The proclamation touts the “strength, ingenuity and determination” of American and Alabama manufacturers, honoring the men and women “who build the products that fuel our economy and enrich our lives.”

The proclamation also highlights Alabama’s manufacturing industry, which includes more than 280,000 workers and more than 4,000 manufacturing enterprises across the state.

“From auto manufacturing to Navy ship building to space rockets, cutting edge pharmaceuticals and more, Alabama is an increasingly influential part of the U.S. and world economy,” Alabama Department of Commerce Secretary Ellen McNair said. “There is no limit to what Alabamians can do or limit to their imaginations.”

Ivey’s proclamation also touts her administration’s efforts to bolster Alabama manufacturing “through robust workforce development programs, strategic infrastructure investment and a steadfast commitment to fostering a pro-growth business climate.” Those efforts have resulted in nearly $70 billion in capital investments in the state and the creation of more than 100,000 jobs during Ivey’s tenure.

The proclamation also notes Alabama’s recruitment of companies including Eli Lilly, which announced plans to open a $6 billion manufacturing operation in Huntsville, and Mercedes-Benz, which helped make Alabama the second-largest auto exporter in the country after opening its first U.S. manufacturing plant near Tuscaloosa 30 years ago.

“We remain committed to supporting the continued innovation, expansion and competitiveness of Alabama’s manufacturing sector as a key pillar of our state’s economy,” the proclamation said. “Now, therefore, I, Kay Ivey, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim July 2, 2026 as ‘Made in the USA’ Day in the state of Alabama and encourage all Alabamians to recognize and celebrate the vital role that manufacturing plays in our state’s past, present and promising future.”