The mission will strengthen Florida’s position as a global leader in aerospace, defense, and technology, while expanding investment in Florida
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.— From Monday, June 16, through Wednesday, June 18, Governor Ron DeSantis will lead an international trade and business development mission to France. The mission will highlight Florida’s status as a global hub for aerospace, aviation, defense, and emerging technologies, while promoting expanded trade and investment opportunities for businesses interested in Florida markets.
As part of the mission, Governor DeSantis will attend the 55th International Paris Air Show—one of the world’s premier events for aerospace innovation. The show features more than 2,500 exhibitors from 48 countries and draws over 300,000 visitors annually. More than two dozen leading Florida-based companies will be in attendance, showcasing the state’s cutting-edge capabilities in aviation, aerospace, and defense.
“Our next trade mission delegation is headed to France and the 55th International Paris Air Show,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “Florida’s focus on manufacturing, aviation, and the space industry already makes it a global leader in aerospace. Our efforts on this trip will be to promote further investment in our state and bring more high-paying jobs to Florida.”
“Our presence at the Paris Air Show underscores Florida’s commitment to attracting high-value industries, supporting high-wage job creation, and expanding our global reach,” said Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly. “With a $1.7 trillion economy, Florida has been ranked the #1 state economy in the nation for two years in a row, providing a strong foundation for growth in aerospace, defense, and advanced manufacturing.”
“There has never been a better time to invest in the Sunshine State,” said Secretary of State Cord Byrd. From the Age of Exploration to the present, Florida’s longstanding relationship with France is built upon shared values and culture. On this trip we look forward to promoting Florida on the global stage as an international trading partner and the premier destination in the U.S. for investment.”
“Transportation is a proven economic driver, and Florida’s strategic planning and investing in world-class infrastructure is why FDOT remains a leader in transportation,” said Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. “Taking the initiative to attend this trade mission and investing in these interactions with global partners sends a clear message that Florida is open for business and we stand ready to support the advancement and growth of the industry.”
Governor DeSantis will be joined by a distinguished delegation of state leaders, academic institutions, and industry representatives, including:
- Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly
- Florida Secretary of Transportation Jared Perdue
- Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd
- Space Florida President & CEO Rob Long
- University of Central Florida President Alexander Cartwright
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University President Barry Butler
The delegation will also include representatives from the University of Florida, Florida State University, Florida Institute of Technology, Seminole State College and Florida economic development organizations and companies across aerospace, defense, manufacturing, transportation, and logistics sectors.
Planned activities include meetings with dozens of companies across the military, aviation, aerospace, and transportation sectors; multiple project announcements, a Florida-focused business roundtable, a Florida Activation event, a business seminar, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Florida Pavilion. The mission will also support 15 Florida-based small and emerging companies participating in the Florida Pavilion, helping them gain access to global markets and potential investment partners.