Governor Abbott to Lead Economic Development Trip to United Kingdom

Governor Greg Abbott is set to lead an economic development trip to the United Kingdom, as announced in a press release from the Governor's office. The trip, organized by the Governor’s Economic Development & Tourism Office and the Texas Economic Development Corporation, will see Governor Abbott departing Texas on March 12, 2024, to engage in meetings until March 14, 2024, in London.

In a statement, Governor Abbott expressed his optimism about the economic prospects for Texas, stating, "Texas is where the future is building thanks to our young, skilled, diverse, and growing workforce and the unmatched business advantages found only in our great state." He further added, "As we meet with business and government leaders in the United Kingdom this week, I look forward to expanding our economic partnership and welcoming new opportunities to promote innovation, business expansion, and job creation for an even bigger, better Texas."

Accompanying Governor Abbott on this important trip are First Lady Cecilia Abbott, Secretary of State Jane Nelson, the Governor’s Economic Development & Tourism Office Executive Director Adriana Cruz, and Texas Economic Development Corporation President & CEO Aaron Demerson.

The United Kingdom holds a significant position in Texas' economic landscape, leading all nations for foreign direct investment projects in the state. Texas, in turn, is the top state for exports to the United Kingdom. In 2023 alone, the trade between Texas and the United Kingdom amounted to $18.2 billion, solidifying the UK as Texas' ninth-largest total trade partner. Moreover, over the past decade, companies from the United Kingdom have invested $8.6 billion in capital through 326 projects in Texas, resulting in the creation of more than 18,200 jobs.

This economic development trip to the United Kingdom is part of Governor Abbott's ongoing efforts to strengthen business relationships and attract investments to Texas. The trip is sponsored and funded by the Texas Economic Development Corporation, working in conjunction with the Governor's Economic Development & Tourism Office to advance Governor Abbott's economic development agenda aimed at bolstering the state's economy.