Gov. Bevin Leads Economic Development Mission to China

9 Dec 2018


FRANKFORT, Ky.  – Gov. Matt Bevin this weekend departed on his administration’s first economic development and trade mission to the People’s Republic of China, a weeklong trip to build business and diplomatic connections in one of the world’s largest and fastest growing economies.

Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development executive officer Vivek Sarin and Erran Persley, the cabinet’s executive director for international affairs and business development, joined Gov. Bevin for the trip. The group plans on strengthening relationships with Chinese companies already operating in Kentucky, as well as developing new business and government connections to fuel future growth.

“Chinese-owned companies are already substantial employers in Kentucky, and we are excited to build upon these strong sub-national relationships with our visit to China this week,” Gov. Bevin said. “Chinese companies are emerging as economic powerhouses in a wide range of markets and, as we prove Kentucky to be a ready and willing business partner, that will mean even more jobs and foreign direct investment flowing into our state. We want Kentucky to be the first state that countries around the world think of when they choose to locate in the US, and we are confident that this trip will significantly further our goal.”