Florida Policy Index

Florida’s economic development strategy is increasingly focused on a new set of priorities: industrial capacity, skilled workforce development and infrastructure capable of supporting defense, maritime and advanced manufacturing.

Between 2014 and 2024, Florida’s nominal gross domestic product increased from approximately $860 billion to $1.73 trillion. In current-dollar terms, the state economy almost exactly doubled in ten years. The expansion reached well beyond hotels, theme parks and residential development. Professional and technical services, finance, healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, aerospace and the broader digital economy all became more consequential parts of Florida’s economic base.

Florida’s economy is increasingly digital. Technology companies, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, cybersecurity, telecommunications, financial technology and digital services are becoming more deeply embedded in industries across the state. At the same time, Florida is investing in the physical infrastructure that supports that economy — broadband networks, data centers, power generation and an increasingly sophisticated public-sector technology environment.

Florida's premium cigar industry is one of the state's most distinctive economic and cultural success stories. Today, Florida's cigar market exceeds $2 billion, supporting manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers, premium cigar lounges, hospitality businesses, tourism, and thousands of jobs throughout the state. Beyond its commercial value, the industry represents a unique blend of craftsmanship, entrepreneurship, international trade, and Florida heritage.

Florida is often recognized for tourism, real estate, agriculture, and financial services. Yet one of the state's most important economic engines receives far less attention than it deserves. Manufacturing contributes approximately $90 billion annually to Florida's economy, supports hundreds of thousands of jobs across the state, and generates roughly 90 percent of Florida's merchandise exports.

Florida's economy has evolved into one of the largest and most dynamic in the world. With a gross state product approaching $1.7 trillion, Florida now ranks among the world's largest economies if measured as an independent nation. Behind much of that growth—international trade, manufacturing, tourism, defense, logistics, energy, and construction—stands an industry that often receives far less public attention than it deserves: maritime.

The global conversation surrounding hydrogen has accelerated dramatically over the past several years. Governments are investing billions of dollars, utilities are evaluating new technologies, and private investors continue searching for the next breakthrough in clean energy. Yet much of the discussion overlooks a fundamental reality: Producing hydrogen is only part of the equation. Moving it safely, reliably, and economically at commercial scale is the far greater challeng

Florida’s 2026 infrastructure and regulatory framework is not designed for incremental growth—it is engineered to attract hyperscale, AI-driven data center development. The shift is deliberate, and it is already reshaping where capital flows.

For years, the digital economy was defined by its lack of physical constraints. Cloud computing, mobile platforms, and software-driven services created the perception of a system that could scale without friction—light, flexible, and largely detached from the physical world. Artificial intelligence is reversing that model.

Florida’s current property tax debate is not new—it builds on a policy framework first seriously advanced nearly two decades ago. As Florida House Speaker in 2007, Marco Rubio proposed one of the most ambitious property tax overhauls in state history: eliminating property taxes on homesteaded properties entirely.

West Palm Beach is no longer simply benefiting from national financial trends—it is increasingly shaping them.

Miami’s estimated $25 billion in World Cup–related investment underscores how global sporting events increasingly function as catalysts for infrastructure modernization and long-term economic development.

Palm Beach County is once again at the center of the global soccer spotlight, hosting Real Madrid’s extended training camp ahead of the 2026 FIFA Club World Cup. The choice of South Florida reflects more than prestige — it underscores how quickly the United States has become a serious player in the world’s game.

President Donald Trump announced that the United States will host the 2026 G20 Summit in Miami, marking the first time the event has been held in the U.S. since Pittsburgh in 2009.

AT&T announced a $5.75 billion deal to acquire the bulk of Lumen’s mass markets fiber business, aiming to accelerate access to high-speed fiber internet across more than 4 million locations in 11 states. The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2026.

Florida lawmakers are exploring major property tax reforms, including eliminating homestead property taxes, expanding senior exemptions up to $1 million, and dissolving outdated special taxing districts. A House committee will review proposals ahead of the 2026 legislative session.

Florida lawmakers have passed Senate Bill 700 (SB700), one of the most expansive agriculture and food policy bills in state history. The measure, now headed to Governor Ron DeSantis, includes wide-ranging reforms affecting farmers, food labeling, ESG regulations, and more.

AT&T announced it is set to surpass 30 million fiber locations by mid-2025, months ahead of schedule, after reaching 29.5 million at the end of Q1.

Florida's general revenue collection exceeded expectations by $596 million from July through January.

Senate President Ben Albritton has introduced a $197 million “Rural Renaissance Plan” package to revitalize Florida’s rural communities through targeted investments in infrastructure, healthcare, housing, and education.