Governor Parson to Embark on Trade Mission to United Kingdom, Belgium to Promote Missouri as Ideal Business Location

JULY 19, 2024

Jefferson City — From July 22 - 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 top 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 with an existing presence in Missouri and 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 show 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 in highest demand in the U.K., with chemicals among those in highest demand in Belgium.

U.K. Highlights

Governor Parson will visit the Farnborough International Airshow and meet with executives of several leading companies in attendance, including Boeing, Leonardo, and Sonaca – all of which have existing relationships with Missouri.

Governor Parson will also participate in a reception with Karen Pierce, British Ambassador to the United States, in celebration of the Farnborough International Airshow.

Belgium Highlights

Governor Parson will take part in meetings with executives of several leading companies, including 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.