Branstad to lead trade mission to Brazil, Chile this summer

Gov. Terry E. Branstad announced Tuesday he will lead a trade mission to Brazil and Chile this summer.

Branstad said the July 21-28 mission will aim to expand trade opportunities for Iowa companies and products in the South America nations. The Iowa Economic Development Authority's (IEDA) International Trade Office will coordinate the trip, and Iowa companies in all industry sectors are invited to participate in this mission, according to the governor's office.

“Exporting creates jobs, and careers, for Iowans, and that is why we have made it a goal to increase overall exports by 20 percent,” Branstad said. “Trade missions like this one will help Iowa companies in expanding their markets outside of the U.S., which will lead to more jobs here at home.”

Brazil is Iowa's sixth-largest trading partner, with exports exceeding $527 million in 2011 – a nearly 50% increase over 2010. Chile is Iowa's 19th-largest export destination, with exports of over $88 million in 2011, according to state officials.

"This trade mission will help build on Iowa's success in trading with Brazil and Chile and will continue to strengthen our partnership with these countries," said IEDA Director Debi Durham. "Both Brazil and Chile remain key destinations for many Iowa products so it is important that we continue to have a presence there."

The Iowa delegation's itinerary will include visits to Sao Paulo and Porto Alegre in Brazil, and to Santiago, Chile.

Highlights include meetings with government and industry association officials, briefings on each market, and “Growing Iowa's Global Partnerships” events, according to a statement issued by Branstad's office. Iowa companies will participate in meetings specific to their market entry or expansion needs.

Companies interested in participating can learn more about the trade mission at the

www.iowaeconomicdevelopment.com/intlevents/downloads/BrazilChile.pdf Web site. The deadline to apply for a slot on the trade mission is May 15.