Corbett to lead trade mission to Brazil, Chile

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) -- Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Corbett is planning a second international trade mission. This time he'll be headed to Brazil and Chile in the spring.

Corbett's office said Thursday that the people traveling with him in April will include university leaders and members of the state's tourism industry.

Corbett says the trip will be paid for with money raised from the private sector. They'll seek to promote the state's exports and port system, while attracting foreign investment, students and tourists.

Corbett estimated that his six-day mission in March to France and Germany netted $1.25 million in new export sales, in addition to generating potential trade agreements, investment leads and 10 active projects.

Corbett has reintroduced the trade mission concept used by former Gov. Tom Ridge. Corbett's predecessor, former Gov. Ed Rendell, took none.