Illinois Governor Reinforces Illinois-Mexico Trade Relationship

MEXICO CITY -- Illinois Governor George H. Ryan today visited the State of Illinois' Mexican Trade Office to meet with representatives from Illinois businesses to discuss ways to expand trade for companies who are already trading with Mexico and to explore export opportunities for additional companies.

"Mexico is Illinois' second largest trading partner, "said Governor Ryan. "The Mexican market represents an incredible opportunity for Illinois business. Just last year we exported over $3 billion dollars worth of agricultural and manufactured goods."

Governor Ryan first visited Mexico ten years ago on a trade mission as Lieutenant Governor. As a result of that mission, Ryan worked with then Governor Thompson to establish a permanent trade office in Mexico City. This visit also celebrated the tenth anniversary of the trade office.

Representatives from Electric City Corporation, Excel Railcar Corporation, Tripp Lite, Amcec Inc., and ODM Travel Agency met with the governor to relate how the staff and facilities of the Illinois Trade Office have helped them expand into the Mexican market.

"The staff at the trade office provides a simple and cost effective way to establish the contacts necessary to enter the Mexican marketplace whether businesses are looking to compete in the public, private or government sectors," said Stephanie Cox who spoke on behalf of Electric City.

Governor Ryan recognized Raymundo Flores, managing director of the State of Illinois Mexico Office for his dedicated service to expanding potential opportunities with the Mexican market.

Ryan also met with Mexican President Zedillo, United States Ambassador Davidow, and Governor Nunez of Hidalgo. On Tuesday, Ryan will meet with President-Elect Fox after speaking at a breakfast meeting of the National Leadership of the Mexican Confederation of Employers.

This past May, Governor Ryan established a trade office in South Africa. Illinois also maintains trade offices in Canada, Belgium, Hungary, Hong Kong, Japan and Poland.