Georgia Chamber Statement on the Permanent Closure of International Paper Facilities in Savannah and Riceboro

BRUNSWICK – Today, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce issued the following statement after International Paper announced the permanent closure of facilities in Savannah and Riceboro.

“The Georgia Chamber of Commerce is saddened by the news that International Paper will permanently close four facilities in Southeast Georgia, and the impact that will have on employees, families, and the communities where they operated.

"For many years, International Paper has been a valued partner in Georgia. While today’s announcement is difficult, we remain committed to working with International Paper at their other facilities in Georgia to ensure continued investment and growth in our state.

“We also stand ready to support local chambers of commerce, workforce partners, and state officials to help impacted workers find new opportunities. Together, we will work to strengthen communities and sustain Georgia’s economic resilience.”

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Founded in 1911 and incorporated in 1915, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce is the largest business advocacy organization in Georgia, working to protect free enterprise and secure our long-term economic prosperity. The Georgia Chamber represents tens of thousands of members in every corner of the state, with offices in Atlanta, Brunswick, and Tifton. In 2025 the Georgia Chamber launched Georgia|2050, a strategic plan to ensure Georgia remains a beacon of economic opportunity for the next 25 years. For more information visit gachamber.com.