Ellington

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — Gov. Phil Bryant and a group of Mississippi business leaders are in Brazil this week to meet with local trade organizations and officials.

The group has stops scheduled in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. They left Monday and are to return Friday.

Joining Bryant are Mississippi Development Authority Executive Director Brent Christensen, Port of Gulfport Director Jonathan Daniels, Port of Pascagoula Director Mark McAndrews and representatives from educational institutions and Mississippi businesses.

Brazil is Mississippi's eighth largest export market.

The Small Business Administration-funded Mississippi State Trade Export Promotion program reimburses eligible businesses up to 50 percent of their travel costs. Other services include scheduled appointments with prospective, qualified buyers, local transportation assistance and a customized itinerary.

Bryant's travel is being paid for by private money.