MI SB0267

Creates the Michigan-African-Caribbean Trade Commission within the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity to promote bilateral trade, investment, and job creation between Michigan and African/Caribbean nations

Commission consists of 7 governor-appointed members including representatives from higher education, chambers of commerce, diaspora communities, agriculture, manufacturing/energy, and information technology sectors, serving 2-year terms

Focuses on strategic sectors including critical minerals for mobility/electronics, electric vehicle technology, agricultural imports (sesame, cassava, coffee, cashews), and digital trade in fintech, AI, and e-commerce

Establishes the Michigan-African-Caribbean Trade Commission Fund in the state treasury to accept gifts, grants, and donations to cover administrative expenses and carry out commission purposes

Requires annual reports to the governor and legislature beginning February 1, 2027, tracking bilateral trade volume, Michigan jobs created, businesses engaged, and new public-private partnerships formed