Last week, on the eve of Mexican Independence Day, Governor Pat Quinn announced that Illinois exports to Mexico in the first half of 2012 topped $3 billion – a 13.7 percent increase over the previous year and a new record high. The state’s robust trading relationship with Mexico has been enhanced by the Illinois Office of Trade and Investment in Mexico City, as well as a century-long tradition of friendship and trade between Illinois and Mexico. Illinois exports overall are at the highest level in a decade and today’s announcement is the latest step towards Governor Quinn’s goal of doubling Illinois exports by 2015.

Mexico has played a key role in Illinois’ rise in exports, with 20 percent growth in 2010 and 34 percent growth in 2011. In his push to increase trade, the Governor established a high-level Export Advisory Council comprised of the State’s top CEOs and private sector leaders to craft strategies for boosting exports, while serving as global ambassadors for the State.

The Illinois Office of Trade and Investment – located on Mexico City’s bustling Paseo de La Reforma – has been providing small and medium-sized Illinois businesses with expertise in all phases of export development as well as partner contacts in Mexico. The Office provides critical support to any Illinois business wanting to enter the Mexican market. In 2011, Mexico accounted for nearly 9 percent of Illinois’ total export portfolio with $5.7 billion in exports, and – in the post-NAFTA era – ranks second only to Canada as a trading partner. Exported goods to Mexico include machinery, agriculture products, electronics and chemicals. More information about Illinois trade and business opportunities can be found on the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s website at www.illinoisbiz.biz.