CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – Governor JB Pritzker reassured Illinois residents and international partners on Tuesday that despite the challenges posed by President Donald Trump’s tariffs, Illinois will remain a stable and reliable trading partner in the global market. Speaking from his Statehouse office, Pritzker acknowledged the ongoing uncertainties but emphasized that Illinois thrives on certainty and offers a solid foundation for businesses to flourish.
“This is a stable state. This is a state that thrives on certainty and allows our businesses to do well. And so we look forward to maintaining that status,” Pritzker stated.
The governor’s comments followed a signing ceremony of a “memorandum of understanding” (MOU) with the United Kingdom, which outlines collaborative efforts on key issues including climate change, sustainable agriculture, and advanced manufacturing. The MOU, initially agreed upon during Pritzker’s 2023 trade mission to the U.K., aims to further strengthen trade relations and foster new ventures in emerging sectors such as clean energy and life sciences.
The ceremonial event, which also featured U.K. Consul General Richard Hyde, highlighted the growing potential for cooperation between Illinois and the U.K. Hyde expressed interest in Illinois expanding its work with British firm Rolls-Royce on the development of small-scale nuclear reactors. He suggested modernizing the state’s standards to allow for the introduction of Rolls-Royce’s advanced technology to further the goal of decarbonization and safer nuclear energy.
Illinois’ trade with the U.K. is significant, with exports surpassing $2.6 billion in 2024, making it Illinois’ eighth-largest export partner. Key products include chemicals, computer products, and manufactured metal products. Additionally, British companies provide employment for approximately 96,000 people in Illinois, underscoring the strength of the economic relationship.
