Snyder: Personal China trade diplomacy eases deals

DETROIT — Gov. Rick Snyder says he has a turkey dinner on his mind as he wraps up a trade mission to China designed to promote Michigan’s automotive, agricultural and tourism businesses in the world’s emerging economic powerhouse.

Speaking by phone from Shanghai on Wednesday morning local time, Snyder told The Associated Press that this kind of personal trade diplomacy helps open doors for Michigan-based businesses.

He says having the governor come to China “sends a strong message” the state’s serious about building trade ties and eases the way for private executives seeking to close deals.

Snyder cites last week’s announcement that Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp. is building a $15 million center for its STEC subsidiary in Madison Heights, creating 176 jobs.

Snyder flies home at day’s end, in time for Thanksgiving.