Panel weighs substitute to create Ohio International Trade Commission

May 28, 2025

Representative Ty Matthews presented substitute HB291 to create an Ohio International Trade Commission intended to coordinate trade offices, attract foreign investment, and develop regional trade centers; members asked about metrics of success, chosen regions (Ireland, Japan, Israel) and JobsOhio's role as an ex officio adviser.

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Representative Ty Matthews told the Development Committee that substitute House Bill 291 would create an Ohio International Trade Commission to consolidate and coordinate existing state trade offices and initiatives, and to position Ohio as a hub for international commerce. Matthews said the commission would focus on specific regions and industry sectors (advanced manufacturing, agriculture, aerospace, defense, logistics, healthcare technology) and that the commission would help create regional trade centers across the state.

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