Trade Mission or Political Mission
By Steve PoftakAugust 20th, 2008
This space is on record as being highly skeptical of Governors taking trade missions. And now word comes that Governor Patrick is expected to visit Israel in the fall on just such a mission. Those with a long memory will recall that our previous Governor had similar aspirations that were put on hold until after his term in office.
I would note, with a raised eyebrow, that Israel is hardly a priority stop for Massachusetts trade. Out of our 25 top export markets, it ranks 24th and accounts for less than 1% of our exports to these top 25 trading partners in the past 5 years.
I would also note that,despite the trip’s stated focus on life sciences and clean energy, most of our exports to Israel consist of IT products and manufactured goods.
Entry Filed under: News
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