Governor Mike Parson and First Lady Teresa Parson will visit Italy from May 18-25 for an international trade mission promoting Missouri as an ideal business location.
The mission's goal is to build relationships with key international figures to promote Missouri's strong trade capabilities, according to a news release.
Parson will meet with various government officials, diplomats and business leaders to promote Missouri as a leading destination for business investment and expansion, the announcement said.
“Given the importance of international trade to our economy, we are excited to once again promote Missouri as an ideal business location,” Parson said. “Italy is home to some of the largest companies that are already investing in our state, striving to grow and create jobs for Missourians. I look forward to showing others that this country has what it takes to help leaders succeed.”
Italy is the largest source of foreign direct investment and a major trading partner for Missouri, with exports totaling more than $169 million in 2023, according to the announcement.
The mission will include stops in Milan and Rome to meet with companies that have an existing presence in Missouri and those that do not have a presence in the state to encourage future investment.
This will be Parson's eighth trade mission since becoming governor.
