Arizona opens state’s 1st trade and investment office in Israel

PHOENIX — Arizona has opened its first trade and investment office in Israel, Gov. Doug Ducey announced Thursday.

The office, part of the Arizona Commerce Authority, is in the country’s economic center, Tel Aviv.

“The opening of Arizona’s trade office in Tel Aviv, Israel, promises to further advance the strong relationship between our states,” Ducey said in a press release.

“We look forward to increased collaboration in our shared areas of strength — technology and innovation, research and development, entrepreneurship and more.”

Social entrepreneur David Ya’ari will lead the office, which will operate under a similar management process to Arizona’s trade office in Mexico City.

Imports and exports between Arizona and Israel surpassed $480 million last year, according to the release.

There are also 20 Israeli-owned companies operating in the state.

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