Gov. Kim Reynolds today announced that she will lead a trade mission to India later this year to strengthen Iowa’s trade and investment relationship with one of the world’s fastest growing economies. The trade mission is planned for September 13-22, 2024, and will include Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig and a delegation of agricultural and business leaders.
“India is the world’s largest democracy and, over the last two decades, it has transformed its economy, making it the fifth largest in the world,” said Gov. Reynolds. “With India’s tremendous growth and massive consumer market, this trade mission is an excellent opportunity to promote Iowa as an investment destination for Indian companies – particularly those in advanced manufacturing, biotech, finance, and insurance – and a strong trade partner in agricultural exports.”
The trade mission is being organized by the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) with support from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Commercial Service. While the itinerary is still being developed, Gov. Reynolds is expected to meet with business and government leaders in Mumbai and New Delhi. Iowa companies will participate in meetings specific to their market entry or expansion needs.
“Given that Iowa is a global agricultural powerhouse and India has the world’s largest population with a rapidly growing economy of consumers, the opportunity to build upon our existing partnership is a win-win for both India and Iowa,” said Secretary Naig. “India already has a growing appetite for ethanol and livestock feed, and recently opened the door for Iowa pork exports, so this connection offers a significant upside for Iowa. I am excited to embark on this trade mission with Gov. Reynolds and our delegation of Iowans to reinforce existing relationships and forge new friendships that will create larger and more diverse markets for Iowa products.”
The IEDA works to stimulate foreign direct investment in the state, offers export assistance for small and mid-sized Iowa companies and coordinates international trade and investment missions and trade show opportunities for Iowa companies.
Businesses or organizations interested in joining the trade mission should contact IEDA at india2024@iowaeda.com. For more information on resources available to Iowa businesses that want to market their products or services globally, visit iowaeda.com.