Arizona Governor Jan Brewer to lead trade delegation to India

Arizona Governor Jan Brewer will lead a delegation to India this week to increase trade ties and promote his State's competitive business climate, expand investment opportunities and foster a long-term relationship. "Arizona deeply values its relationship with India, and recognises the potential for meaningful and mutual business investment. It's essential that Arizona capitalise on the opportunity," Brewer said in a statement.

"Our state economy has come so far over the past four years, thanks to the pro-growth climate we've worked hard to create. To remain competitive and ensure Arizona's economic vitality, we must forge and secure strong partnerships beyond Arizona and the United States," he said. Brewer was among nine state governors to address the India Business Forum, in Washington, DC, and attest to the value of Indian investment to a state's economy.

Joined by the Arizona Commerce Authority, he will meet prominent figures in Indian government, as well as global leaders in software development, cyber security, data centers, aerospace, infrastructure development and renewable energy. Like Arizona, India's economic future is focused on continued growth in high-tech sectors, particularly in aerospace and defense and renewable energy.

Both recognise a shared opportunity to expand and thrive in these and other increasingly-critical industries. "With exports from Arizona to India recently up 78 per cent, India represents an emerging market and area of significant opportunity," said Sandra Watson, president and CEO, Arizona Commerce Authority.

"Arizona's key industry sector strengths in aerospace and defense, technology, bioscience and advanced manufacturing are well aligned with India's growing domestic needs. This mission is an important part of cultivating trade and investment opportunities for Arizona and showcasing the state's pro-business climate to companies in India looking for expansion in the US," Watson said.

In addition to exploring investment and expansion opportunities, the Governor also will focus on promoting Arizona's number one export-oriented industry: tourism. In 2012, more than 38 million global visitors travelled to Arizona, spending USD 19.3 billion throughout the state.