ALBANY, N.Y. — New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo is heading to Havana, the first American governor to visit Cuba since the recent thaw in relations with the communist nation. However, whether his trade mission generates anything more than headlines remains to be seen.

The formal state visit today and Tuesday is meant to foster greater ties between New York and Cuba. Cuomo will be joined by lawmakers and a group of business leaders for what he has called “a tremendous steppingstone” that will “help open the door to a new market for New York businesses.”

Trade experts say New York could profit from improved relations with the Caribbean nation.