Trade Mission to China with Governor Dayton

Mission Overview

Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton will lead a trade mission to China June 8 to 17, 2012, to expand the state's trade relationship with the second-largest economy in the world.

Delegates will travel to Beijing, Shanghai and Xian, capital of Shaanxi Province. 

Minnesota's second-largest export market and the most populous nation in the world, China is experiencing tremendous economic growth and increasing consumer demand. In 2010, sales of Minnesota products to China reached $1.84 billion, up 45 percent from the previous year. 

Continued growth is expected, offering excellent opportunities for Minnesota manufactured exports and agricultural commodities. Read our Why China Market Briefing for a deeper view of the market strengths and opportunities.

Mission Objectives

The trade mission's objectives are wide-ranging and include exploring new trade opportunities, gathering market intelligence, acquiring business contacts and potential partners for Minnesota companies, and attracting Chinese investment in Minnesota.

In addition to increasing Minnesota exports, the mission focuses on supporting Minnesota companies with current business interests in China and on developing relationships with key trade organizations.

Mission Events

The Minnesota Trade Office (MTO), in conjunction with the U.S. Commercial Service and other U.S. and Chinese partners, is organizing an extensive business agenda. Potential events include:

• Market and industry presentations
• Customized business matchmaking
• Roundtable discussions
• Networking receptions
• Meetings with government officials
• Site visits

Application Deadline: March 15, 2012

The MTO will consider applications from all Minnesota-based companies or organizations with activities or business interests in China.

Complete this electronic Trade Mission Application and click the submit button at the bottom of the page. Submission deadline is Thursday, March 15, 2012.

Estimated Expenses

Estimated mission fee is $7,500 to $8,000 per person. The fee includes round-trip coach air travel, ground transportation, hotel accommodations, mission events, and in-country assistance from the MTO. The final fee will be calculated based on the number of delegates sharing common expenses.

Funding Available for Qualified Minnesota Small Businesses
Your company may qualify for substantial trade mission assistance provided by the SBA STEP Grant Program administered by the Minnesota Trade Office. Check the appropriate box on the Mission Application to be considered for STEP funding.

Mission Itinerary (subject to change)

For More Information

Contact Li King Feng at the Minnesota Trade Office at 651-259-7484 or e-mail Li.King.Feng@state.mn.us. Download our Mission Promotional Brochure.