It is a most beneficial trip. Our first day in Mexico, we made a sale, and I'm very enthusiastic about our opportunities in Brazil, Argentina and Chile. In addition to increasing trade opportunities for New Jersey firms, Gov. Whitman is expected to sign several economic agreements while in Brazil and Argentina. There will be conferences to increase Brazilian tourism to New Jersey as well as promoting environmentally-friendly businesses. Gov. Whitman's mission to Latin America will be her first to the South American countries.
Chile is an associate member.
The three countries that will be visited during this mission comprise a significant component of New Jersey trade to South America. That's why it is so important for us to sow seeds in this market now, to help New Jersey exports to grow in the future. The Garden State is also the fifth leading state in foreign direct investment, hosting more than 1,200 foreign firms. The companies who are joining Gov. Whitman on this mission are representatives from the leading export sectors to the region, including pharmaceuticals and telecommunications firms. A key issue for New Jersey's pharmaceutical industry will be the protection of intellectual property rights.