Gov. Mike Parson and First Lady Teresa Parson will travel to Italy for an international trade mission on May 18-25 to promote Missouri as an ideal business location.
The goal of the mission will be to build relationships with key international figures to promote Missouri’s strong capacity for trade, according to a news release.
Parson will meet with various government officials, diplomats, and business leaders to promote Missouri as a prime destination for business investment and expansion, according to the release.
“Given the importance of international trade to our economy, we’re excited to again promote Missouri as an ideal business location,” Parson said. “Italy is home to several leading companies that have already invested in our state while growing and creating jobs for Missourians. We look forward to thanking Italian business leaders for their partnerships while demonstrating to others that our state has what it takes to support their success.”
Italy is a top source of foreign direct investment and a key trade partner for Missouri, with more than $169 million in exports in 2023, according to the release.
The mission will include stops in Milan and Rome to meet with companies with an existing presence in Missouri and companies without a presence in the state to encourage future investment.
This will be Parson’s eighth trade mission since becoming Governor.
