Gearing up for a significant stride in international relations and trade, Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe is set to embark on a trade mission to Paris, France. Planned for next Monday to Saturday, the governor's agenda includes forging new economic partnerships and reinforcing existing ones with key players in various business sectors. According to an announcement on Governor Kehoe's official website, the mission will target French companies both with and without a presence in Missouri, in a bid to catalyze further investment in the state.
The focus of Governor Kehoe's trip, not only rests on networking with industry moguls but also on promoting Missouri's economic potential. Despite the robust ties already threading Missouri and France together, which saw $266 million in exports from Missouri to France in 2024, the governor and his delegation will hold meetings with influential entities such as Boeing, Leonardo DRS, and Schneider Electric. The governor’s itinerary also includes an engagement with the Movement of the Enterprises of France (MEDEF), France’s largest employer federation, according to Governor Kehoe's press release.
“We’re looking forward to promoting the Show-Me State as the ideal place to invest during our first international trade mission,” Governor Kehoe stated, emphasizing the intent to not only bolster but also widen the scope of Missouri's economic landscape. Additional activities for the governor include attending the Paris Air Show, an event considered paramount in the aerospace industry, and visiting the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial, a historical site commemorating Missouri's World War II veterans.
With France standing as a pivotal economic ally, ranking as the 13th largest destination for Missouri goods, the strategic engagement seems timely. Over 40 French companies are currently operating within Missouri’s borders, highlighting a reciprocal commercial relationship.
