Less than two weeks after returning from a Chinese investment mission, Gov. Rick Snyder took to the skies again Wednesday for a similar eight-day trip to Germany and Japan, his third mission to both countries and he and Lt. Gov. Brian Calley’s 14th trade mission overall.
The Governor will be returning to Michigan next Thursday, the day before the Michigan Republican Party’s (MRP) Leadership Conference on Mackinac Island.
“The world is increasingly interconnected and it’s important for leaders in other countries to hear about what Michigan has to offer,” Snyder said. “We’re the leader in automotive research and design, we have a strong manufacturing base and we have a talented workforce.”
Snyder is meeting with Japanese auto company leaders and visiting Michigan’s sister state, the Shiga Prefecture, and is slated to “tell the Michigan story” at the Midwest U.S.-Japan Association meeting in Tokyo on Monday.
Snyder then heads to Germany and the 66th Frankfurt Auto Show, where he is slated to meet with executives from automotive supply chain companies and European auto part suppliers, delivering the message that Michigan is the premier automotive business location in North America.
Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s Auto Sector Senior Vice President Kevin Kerrigan and representatives from local economic development agencies including the Detroit Regional Chamber and the Right Place, Inc. are also joining the trip.
The Michigan delegation also includes Tony Vernaci, MEDC’s vice president for business attraction; Martina Schlagwein, MEDC’s manager for European business development; Lindsay Eister, MEDC’s senior protocol officer; Emily Guerrant, MEDC’s vice president for marketing, communications and public relations; and Beth Emmitt, the Governor’s scheduling director.
In addition, leaders from 11 Michigan companies are traveling to Europe next week to meet with potential partners, distributors and buyers to increase export opportunities from Michigan to Europe.
“Our innovative technologies in manufacturing, computers and electronics, alternative energy, homeland security and agriculture have global appeal and we welcome the opportunity to explore smart trade partnerships,” Snyder said. “Diverse industries and ease of entry into other European Union countries provide an excellent opportunity for Michigan companies to increase their exports.”
The first trip, taking place in Mannheim, Germany, Sept. 13-19, will include eight companies. The second trip, taking place in London, Sept. 20-24 will include six companies, three of which are also taking part in the Germany mission.