Minnesota Trade Office

Governor Jesse Ventura led a five-day mission last fall as part of Minnesota Mexico Ventures, the second major trade initiative of his administration. The trip, from October 23-27, included meetings with both President Ernest Zedillo and his newly-elected successor, Vicente Fox. After his meeting with Governor Ventura, Fox said “I think a great friendship was born” between Minnesota and Mexico. The governor attended several events in Mexico City and Guadalajara to promote Minnesota exports, particularly those in three industries offering the greatest potential for growth: information technology, agriculture and medical products.

"The Mexican market has great potential for Minnesota," said Governor Ventura. "Last year alone, Minnesota exports to Mexico surpassed even the national growth rate -- jumping 21 percent to nearly $300 million -- so the momentum is there. The time to act is now."

Mexico is the United States' second largest export market, consuming $82 billion worth of goods in 1999. Minnesota products and services are also in demand, with manufactured exports almost doubling between 1995 and 1999. Mexico was a major market for several export industries in 1999:

• 3rd largest market for Minnesota's food processors, after Canada and Japan;
  
  
• 7th largest market for Minnesota's industrial machinery;
  
  
• 2nd largest market for Minnesota's printers and publishers;
  
  
• 6th largest market for Minnesota's producers of lumber and wood products.

The Mexico initiative focused on strengthening Minnesota's business, educational and cultural ties with Mexico. Mexico is one of eight key markets targeted for Minnesota exports. Others include Canada, China, France, Germany, Japan, Southeast Asia and the United Kingdom. These markets account for 70 percent of the state's manufactured exports, and exports to these countries are projected to grow by $2.9 billion during the next five years.

Minnesota Mexico Ventures was developed by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.

The Minnesota Mexico Ventures brochure contains more information about the trade mission.