Governor Parson traveling to United Kingdom, Belgium in trade mission

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Missouri Governor Mike Parson and First Lady Teresa Parson will be traveling abroad from July 22 through July 26. The International Trade Mission will include stops in the United Kingdom, as well as Belgium.

The Missouri Governor’s Office of Communications says that the U.K. and Belgium are at the top of the list of sources for foreign direct investment and are key trade partners for the state of Missouri.

The goal of the Trade Mission is to continue building relationships with international figures to promote Missouri’s capacity for trade. Governor Parson will be meeting with government officials, diplomats and business leaders during the mission.

“Trade Missions are the perfect opportunity for us to continue to promote our state as a prime business destination,” said Governor Parson.

“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.”

$637 million worth of Missouri goods were exported to the U.K. and Belgium in 2023 alone. This shows the crucial importance of international trade and relations in relation to the state’s economic success. These exported goods mainly include chemicals, machinery, metal products and transportation equipment.

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