*Missouri Governor ? Michael L. Parson*

Office of Communications

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*FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE*

May 10, 2024

*Governor Parson to Embark on Trade Mission to Italy to Promote Missouri as Ideal Business Location*

*(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) *? From May 18 - 25, Governor Mike Parson and First Lady Teresa Parson will travel to Italy for an international Trade Mission. 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.

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.

?Given the importance of international trade to our economy, we're excited to again promote Missouri as an ideal business location,? *Governor 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.?

The Trade 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. In Milan, Governor Parson will meet with the U.S. Consul General and the U.S. Commercial Services team. Governor Parson will also meet with the U.S. Ambassador in Rome.

The $169 million in goods exported to Italy in 2023 show the importance of international trade to the state?s economic success. Among the goods exported, leather, machinery, and chemicals were among those in highest demand.

This will be Governor Parson's eighth Trade Mission since becoming Governor.?

*Italy Highlights*

Governor Parson will take part in meetings with executives of several leading companies, including PIVA Group, Leonardo DRS, TAB, Buzzi Unicem, Principe Foods, Serioplast, and Reply - all of which have existing relationships with Missouri.

Governor Parson will also participate in discussions with key Italian business organizations, including the Council of Regions in Rome.

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.

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*Contact: Johnathan Shiflett*

Deputy Communications Director/Press Secretary?

Mobile: 573-508-4323

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.governor.mo.gov

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