Trade mission, sister-state relations strengthen Wisconsin’s global ties in uncertain times

Trade and exports are an essential part of our state’s success, with exports contributing more than $27.5 billion to Wisconsin’s economy in 2024. It’s one of the reasons why we recently completed a nine-day trade mission to Germany and France—two critical Wisconsin export partners—as we continue to help Wisconsin businesses enter the global marketplace and build meaningful relationships with potential future collaborators while also encouraging international companies to invest in Wisconsin.

This trip took on unexpected dimensions as the news about tariffs and a potential global trade war unfolded in real time and markets at home and abroad reflected the volatility of decision-making caused by policymakers in Washington DC. It also made our trip that much more important.

Given our work over the last several years to increase Wisconsin’s exports, add new trade markets and prioritize entrepreneurship and foster innovation by supporting our state’s start-up businesses, the timing of this trade mission created a unique opportunity to share our successes and reaffirm our steady commitment to our trans-Atlantic partners while laying critical groundwork for future collaboration and investments.

Read the full article here.