LANSING, Mich. (AP) - Gov. Rick Snyder's upcoming trip to China to coax companies to expand in Michigan won't be cheap, but economic development officials say the money is well spent and producing results.
The governor's last investment mission to Asia cost $251,000 and a concurrent trade trip totaled $173,000. Expenses included flights, lodging, other travel, meals, gifts and receptions.
Nearly $219,000 of the bill for Snyder's trip was covered with money Michigan receives from American Indian casinos' gambling profits.
The remaining $32,000 was paid by a nonprofit funded by major Michigan businesses.
Snyder's weeklong trip starts Wednesday. While he's there, the state will lead a concurrent trade mission with companies hoping to export products to China.
A similar export trip last year was mostly paid for by the federal government and the companies.
