The state of Missouri may soon be setting up economic office in Israel. The Missouri State Senate passed Senate Bill 812 by a vote of 32-0.
The bill goes now to Gov. Jay Nixon. Senate Bill 812 directs the Missouri Department of Economic Development to establish a trade office in Israel for the purpose of promoting trade and cooperation between Missouri companies and companies in Israel.
The Senate included money for the office in a proposed state operating budget endorsed earlier this week. Missouri already has economic development offices in 12 countries around the world.
There are already more than 70 Missouri companies doing business with Israel, including Boeing, Monsanto, Eagle Picher, and Sigma Aldrich. In 2012 Missouri companies exported over $100 million in goods to Israel.
“I was pleased to sponsor Senate Bill 812 as it accomplishes two very important objectives,” said Sen. Mike Parson, (R) Bolivar. “Not only does it bring economic benefit by putting Missouri products in front of international customers, but it also provides a tangible means by which Missouri is able to demonstrate strong support for the nation of Israel.”
