Pence Is Headed To China For Another Trade Mission

Staff Report -- TheStatehouseFile.com

INDIANAPOLIS – Gov. Mike Pence is packing his bags in anticipation of a trip to China, which will focus on creating economic opportunities and partnerships between the country and our state.

Pence will leave on May 9 for a weeklong trip and will visit Beijing, Shanghai and Hangzhou, the capital city of Zhejiang Province, Indiana’s Chinese sister-state.

While away, Pence will meet with Chinese government leaders, top executives from numerous Chinese companies and potential investors. The governor will also stop at Indiana companies with operations in China, including Eli Lilly and Cummins, as well as China-based Haier Group, which is planning to locate its North American Tech Center in Evansville.

China is the state’s fifth largest export partner, with exports totaling $1.4 billion in 2014.

“Indiana plays a critical role in the global economy, with thousands of Hoosiers across our state going to work daily at international companies,” Pence said in a statement. “China represents the largest economy in the world. Today we see immense potential for the creation of more jobs for Hoosiers through the strengthening of ties with our Chinese partners.”

The trip is Pence’s sixth international trade mission since taking office. His first was in 2013 when he traveled to Japan. He has also gone on trade missions to Germany, the United Kingdom, Canada and Israel.

“The reach of Indiana’s economy extends far beyond our borders,” Pence said. “Hoosiers can create everything from cars to medicines that are used around the world. And with Indiana’s strengths in life sciences, advanced manufacturing and aerospace, we aim to make sure Chinese business leaders know that Indiana is the ideal place to grow their companies and create great Hoosier jobs.”

Private donations from the Indiana Economic Development Foundation are paying for Pence’s trip. First Lady Karen Pence and Secretary of Commerce Victor Smith will also travel with the governor.

“Our universities and our communities already boast a thriving friendship with China,” Pence said, “and we’re looking forward to strengthening this relationship on our jobs mission next month.”

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