[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced that he will lead a trade mission to Australia, November 10-18, 2023, with stops in the major business centers of Sydney and Melbourne. The mission will focus on growing the state’s exports of goods and services, showcasing Minnesota as a top destination for business investment, developing new partnership opportunities, and strengthening existing ties.

Governor Walz will lead a delegation comprised of representatives from approximately 35 businesses and organizations within Minnesota’s medical technology, food and agriculture, environmental technology, and higher education sectors.

“Minnesota is home to innovative and nation-leading agriculture, clean energy, and medical technology industries and I look forward to showcasing our state to our partners in Australia,” said Governor Walz. “Alongside business leaders from across the state, I look forward to building on our existing relationships and encouraging Australian businesses to start or grow their operations in Minnesota.”

“Minnesota’s total trade in goods with Australia was valued at $579 million in 2022, with exports of $438 million and imports of $141 million,” said Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) temporary Commissioner Kevin McKinnon. “Australia was also Minnesota’s 13th largest market for goods last year and can also provide a strategic base for Minnesota companies to engage with Southeast Asian markets. We’ve also seen innovative Australian companies establishing a presence in Minnesota. We are excited about the opportunity to further these important ties during the upcoming trade mission.”

“A strong Minnesota ag and food economy relies on fostering international trade relations and growing business partnerships,” said Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) Commissioner Thom Petersen. “We look forward to this opportunity to visit Australia and showcase the many products grown and made in Minnesota.”

Participants will receive an extensive business agenda based upon their industry sector, including market briefings, networking events with business and government leaders, and site visits.

The Minnesota Trade Office at DEED is organizing the trade mission and applications to join the business delegation should be submitted by Friday, June 30, 2023.

DEED is the state's principal economic development agency, promoting business recruitment, expansion and retention, workforce development, international trade, and community development. For more details about the agency and its services, visit the DEED website.

Promoting Minnesota’s high quality agricultural products in new and existing domestic and international markets is core to the MDA’s mission to ensure the strength and resilience of Minnesota’s agricultural economy.