Governor Abigail Spanberger concluded a week-long international economic trade mission to the United Kingdom, Italy, and France, aimed at strengthening Virginia’s global trade relationships and attracting future investment to the Commonwealth. The mission, which included Secretary of Commerce and Trade Carrie Chenery and Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Katie Frazier, focused on showcasing Virginia's economic strengths.
Governor Spanberger emphasized Virginia's competitive edge on the global stage. "Virginia competes on a global stage, and this week, we made our case directly to the leaders deciding where to invest and grow," said Governor Abigail Spanberger. She highlighted the Commonwealth's workforce, infrastructure, and partnership mindset, noting that Virginia has already secured over $5 billion in new business investment and more than 3,000 new jobs in six months.
The mission also significantly advanced Virginia’s agricultural and forestry trade relationships. "Agriculture and forestry are Virginia’s number one and number three private industries, and our farmers and foresters compete in a global marketplace," Governor Spanberger said, advocating for Virginia farm and forest products to international buyers. Secretary Katie Frazier underscored the importance of international market access for these industries.
During her visit, Governor Spanberger cultivated government relationships, including a meeting with Friuli-Venezia Giulia (FVG) President Massimiliano Fedriga in Italy. They committed to expanding a 2025 Memorandum of Understanding in forestry, wine research, and cultural exchanges. In Paris, a Virginia Reception showcased the Commonwealth as a premier destination for trade, investment, and tourism, featuring Virginia products like wine and smoked scallops.
This marks the first international trade mission of the Spanberger administration, reflecting a broader focus on economic growth. Governor Spanberger concluded, "We continue to do the steady work of building relationships and promoting our Commonwealth because that’s how we turn a good meeting today into a valuable investment in Virginia and our workforce a year or two from now. That’s how we keep building a stronger, more affordable Virginia for every family."