Quinn To Lead Trade Visit to Mexico

Gov. Pat Quinn will lead a trade mission to Mexico this week in an effort to increase ties between that nation and Illinois.

Quinn said with its focus on agriculture, water technology, manufacturing and tourism, the visit will help boost economic growth. Quinn will leave Wednesday and return Saturday.

The governor will be accompanied by corporate leaders, among the executives of Caterpillar, ADM, Navistar, Motorola Solutions, and Tate and Lyle.

Quinn will meet with potential trade partners and Mexico's Secretary of Agriculture. He will also meet with two state governors, and the mayors of Mexico City and Patzcuáro.

Exports to Mexico from Illinois in the first half of 2012 reached $3 billion. Mexico accounts for nearly 9 percent of the state's exports.

Copyright Associated Press