Illinois scouting for trade pacts

Bangalore, Mar 27 (UNI) Illinois, considered the centre of one of the most dynamic retailing markets in the United States, is looking for partnerships and collaborations in trade and industry.

Informing this at a meeting on 'Doing Business in Illinois' here today, Illinois Far East Office Managing Director Norman L Li said the State, located strategically in the US for transportation, distribution and accessibility, housed 35 Fortune 500 companies.

Having accounted for about 529 billion Dollars of the Gross State Domestic Product, Illinois was one of the world's most progressive and productive business locations.

Outlining the market prospects, he said half of the goods and services produced in the US were manufactured in the State's vicinity. Nearly 17 per cent of the total retail sales in the US were made in Illinois and its bordering States.

Mr Li said Illinois, America's leader in telecommunications and technology, also offered advanced telecom network and numerous public-private partnerships that enhance the State's business environment.

The meet was jointly organised by the Bangalore Chamber of Industry and Commerce (BCIC) and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).

UNI MV GD TS1903