Reverse Trade Mission Brings the World to Central Illinois on April 24th and 25th

CHICAGO – In an important move to strategically expand foreign direct investment in Central Illinois and open new markets abroad, Gov. Rod R. Blagojevich’s Opportunity Returns team will be escorting a delegation of Chicago-based, foreign trade commissioners representing 16 countries throughout Central Illinois on April 24th and 25th.  Sponsored by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s (DCEO) Office of Trade and Investment, the reverse foreign trade mission is designed to connect Illinois’ world-class, strategic locations to Chicago’s foreign trade offices to increase investment and maximize exports from the region.  DCEO Director Jack Lavin will formally address the trade commissioners at a luncheon at Richland Community College on Wednesday, April 25th at Noon in Decatur.

“Central Illinois has the essential resources, workforce and rich quality of life that are in demand across the globe.  Attracting new investments, creating new jobs and connecting our communities to the world are vital in our efforts to take advantage of all of Central Illinois’ strategic assets.  This reverse trade mission will allow us to demonstrate its tremendous viability as an international business partner and as a driving force in economic growth both here and abroad,” Gov. Blagojevich said.

The trade commissioners’ two-day program is introducing them to the advantages and dynamics of Central Illinois, including the cities of Lincoln, Springfield and Decatur.

On Tuesday, April 24th, the group will depart Chicago for Lincoln and meet with local business leaders and learn more about regional tourism, including Looking for Lincoln and the Route 66 Scenic Highway.  In the afternoon, the group will travel to Springfield for a tour of the State Capitol and to explore the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.  There will be an evening reception at the Governor’s Mansion that will include state legislators, local elected officials and economic development and labor leaders, as well as other community and business representatives.

The program on April 25th will include a visit to Decatur with stops at the region’s top manufacturing and research and development facilities, including Tate & Lyle, Caterpillar and Archer Daniels Midland.  A luncheon will also be held at Richland Community College that will include a small business networking opportunity.  Other event sponsors include the Litchfield Economic Development Commission, the Lincoln Convention and Visitor’s Bureau and IBEW 146 among others. 

The countries represented by the delegation of foreign trade commissioners expected to attend include: Belgium, China, Hungary, Indonesia, Israel, Lithuania, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Pakistan, the Philippines, Poland, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland, Thailand and Ukraine.

“I appreciate the Governor's efforts to build bridges between our communities in Central Illinois and international businesses.  The networks that will be built will pay important dividends for many years to come with more jobs, more businesses and more opportunities,” State Representative Bob Flider (D-Mt. Zion) said.

“Gov. Blagojevich and I believe we must continue to think globally if we are going to continue attracting more companies and jobs to Springfield.  This reverse trade mission is another important step in highlighting all our city and our region has to offer,” Springfield Mayor Tim Davlin said.

Illinois reported more than $42 billion in exports in 2006, a 17.3 percent increase from 2005, the largest dollar figure increase in a single year, according to WISER, the World Institute for Strategic Economic Research, who compiles its information from the US Census Bureau, Foreign Trade Division.  Since 2002, Illinois exports have grown by $16.4 billion, a 64 percent increase.  Illinois is also now the fifth largest exporting state in the country, which is its highest ranking ever.  Illinois also currently ranks fourth in the nation in foreign direct investment, which is up 14 percent in the last five years, according to the Organization for International Investment.

“This reverse foreign trade mission is another example of Gov. Blagojevich’s vision to fully capitalize on Central Illinois’ economic strengths.  By bringing this international delegation to the region, we are laying the foundation for a stronger, more diverse economy that will take advantage of the many international opportunities, which will help put more people to work here at home,” said DCEO Director Jack Lavin

Schedule of events:

Tuesday, April 24th 

11:00 AM	Luncheon in Lincoln – Hallie’s Lunch Box
1:15 PM	Capitol Tour/Visit Legislative Session – State House, Springfield
3:00 PM	Tour Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum – Springfield
7:00 PM	Evening Reception at Governor’s Mansion – Springfield
Wednesday, April 25th
8:15 AM	Breakfast at Tate & Lyle – Decatur
10:15 AM	Tour Caterpillar – Decatur
12:00 PM	Luncheon Program at Richland Community College – Decatur
2:00 PM	Tour ADM Facility – Decatur