May 5, 2025

South Dakota trade and economic development officials are leading a delegation of businesses and industry associations to Mexico this week.

The trade mission is aimed at increasing export sales of agriculture, manufacturing and biotech products, according to a news release from South Dakota Trade. It also will promote foreign direct investment opportunities in South Dakota and facilitate meetings with high-level government officials in Mexico.

The group left Sunday, led by Joe Fiala, deputy commissioner of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development, and Jesse Fonkert, incoming president and CEO of South Dakota Trade.

Business and industry participants on the mission will meet with potential buyers, gain insights into maximizing access to the Mexican market and promote South Dakota’s message that the state is “open for opportunity.”

“Strong trade missions show global partners that South Dakota is ‘Open for Opportunity,’” Gov. Larry Rhoden said. “We are proving that our products are the best in the world, and this puts them in high demand in other markets. In fact, the trade mission that I led to Mexico in 2023 has generated a 65-to-1 return on investment.”

Rhoden led South Dakota Trade’s inaugural trade mission while he was serving as lieutenant governor but is not on this trip.

Fonkert previously participated on a South Dakota Trade mission to Japan and Taiwan.

“We know from experience that South Dakota companies are very competitive when they connect directly with international buyers in their own markets,” he said. “Trade missions are targeted opportunities to build trust, open doors and drive real results for South Dakota exporters. We’re proud to continue building on that momentum with this mission to Mexico.”

While in Mexico, Fiala will host several seminars about conducting business in South Dakota.

“Gov. Rhoden’s leadership has helped position South Dakota as the best place to invest and do business,” he said. “This mission gives us the opportunity to demonstrate all that South Dakota has to offer.”

Participating companies can apply for STEP grant funding from South Dakota Trade to offset the cost of registration, travel and translation services. The package also includes access to local consultants who prearrange business-to-business matchmaking meetings with foreign buyers in each market to expedite sales opportunities.

Trade missions to Ireland and Canada are being planned for later this year. Interested businesses should reach out to Rachael Weiland at South Dakota Trade at rachael.weiland@southdakotatrade.com.