From August 10-13, Governor Mike Parson and First Lady Teresa Parson will travel to the Republic of Panama for an international Trade Mission. Panama is a key trade partner for Missouri, with $37 million in exports in 2023. Consistent with Governor Parson’s infrastructure and economic development priorities, the goal of the Trade Mission is to build relationships with key international figures to promote Missouri’s strong capacity for trade. Governor Parson will meet with government officials and diplomats in addition to visiting Missouri National Guard service members who are participating in a multinational exercise focused on ensuring free transit of commerce through the Panama Canal. The total of $37 million in goods exported to Panama in 2023 also show the importance of international trade to Missouri’s economic success. Among the goods exported, nonmetallic minerals, dairy products, grain and oilseed milling products, and HVAC and refrigeration equipment were among those in highest demand.