KC Reporter

From July 22 to 26, Governor Mike Parson and First Lady Teresa Parson will travel to the United Kingdom and Belgium for an international trade mission. The U.K. and Belgium are significant sources of foreign direct investment and key trade partners for Missouri, with more than $307 million and $330 million in exports in 2023, respectively.

Consistent with Governor Parson’s infrastructure and economic development priorities, the goal of the trade mission is to build relationships with key international figures to promote Missouri’s strong capacity for trade. Governor Parson will meet with various government officials, diplomats, and business leaders to promote Missouri as a prime destination for business investment and expansion.

“Trade missions are the perfect opportunity for us to continue to promote our state as a prime business destination,” Governor Parson said. “The United Kingdom and Belgium are key trade partners and the home of leading companies already making significant investments in Missouri. We look forward to strengthening existing relationships with businesses while encouraging new partnerships with those considering growing here in the Show-Me State.”

The trade mission will include stops in London and Brussels to meet with companies that have an existing presence in Missouri as well as companies without a presence in the state to encourage future investment.

The total of $637 million in goods exported to the U.K. and Belgium in 2023 underscores the importance of international trade to the state’s economic success. Among the goods exported, chemicals, machinery, metal products, and transportation equipment were among those most demanded by the U.K., while chemicals were highly demanded by Belgium.

In the U.K., Governor Parson will visit the Farnborough International Airshow and meet with executives from several leading companies in attendance, including Boeing, Leonardo, and Sonaca – all of which have existing relationships with Missouri. He will also participate in a reception with Karen Pierce, British Ambassador to the United States, celebrating the Farnborough International Airshow.

In Belgium, Governor Parson will engage in meetings with executives from several leading companies such as Anheuser-Busch InBev, Duvel Moorgat, and Whitebridge Pet Brands – all of which have existing relationships with Missouri.

The trade mission is funded by the Hawthorn Foundation, a Missouri nonprofit organization. For updates on the trip, follow @GovMikeParson on Facebook and @GovParsonMO on Twitter.