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State Senator Cristina Castro joined Governor JB Pritzker, state lawmakers, agriculture officials and business leaders on a trade mission to Mexico this week.

“Countless benefits are the result of a successful economic partnership between Illinois and Mexico — stability for public and private sectors, a strong workforce, environmental sustainability, agricultural and economic growth and more,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “With so much at stake given the federal administration’s hostility toward one of our strongest trade allies, this trip could not have come at a more prudent time.”

On Monday, Castro stood alongside Governor Pritzker and State of Mexico Governor Delfina Gómez Álvarez as they signed an expansion of the 1990 Illinois-Mexico Sister State Memorandum of Understanding. The expansion builds on the initial MOU, which focused heavily on research and higher education, by promoting strategic alliances between state governments, universities and research centers, and highlighting the importance of bilateral trade, agriculture and manufacturing. The MOU also focuses on the importance of efficient and sustainable water usage and the biotechnology necessary to support a clean water future — a critical issue for agricultural communities in Illinois and Mexico alike.

Mexico is Illinois’ second-largest export customer and third-largest import market, with the country importing $13 billion in Illinois goods in 2024. Castro emphasized the importance of Illinois officials working to maintain a strong relationship during times of uncertainty surrounding trade policy.

“Regardless of uncertainty at the federal level, Illinois is rising to the challenges of today and forging its own path forward in the international marketplace,” Castro said. “We take great pride in being a hub for innovation and opportunity, and we are thankful that Mexico is committed to continuing to serve as our economic partner.”

Illinois has had an office in Mexico City to promote bilateral trade, highlight Illinois’ assets, strengthen sister city partnerships and attract foreign investment and tourism since 1989. The leading exports from Illinois to Mexico include chemicals, agricultural products, transportation equipment, electronics and machinery.