Archive for the ‘Trade Shows and Trade Events’ Category

Older Entries »
h1

International Trade Calendar – December 2011

November 1, 2011

This post contains external links. Please review our external linking policy.

International Trade Calendar

December 2011

Here is a list of selected international trade events of interest, including ITA-sponsored events and upcoming international trade fairs. The U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service (USFCS) maintains a comprehensive listing of industry shows at http://www.export.gov. A fee may be charged for participation in some of these events. For more information, see the full event listing on the Web or contact the staff person listed in the event description.

December 1–2
India Cold Chain Expo
Mumbai, India

This show offers U.S. companies an excellent opportunity to show their refrigeration products and services to a growing market. A networking reception for U.S. Pavilion exhibitors is planned. More than 1,500 trade professionals and 60 domestic and international cold chain equipment suppliers are expected. There will also be a concurrent two-day conference on the uses of cold chain technology in the horticulture/ processed food and pharmaceutical industries. For more information, contact Renie Subin of the USFCS, tel.: +91 (11) 2347-2155; e-mail: renie.subin@trade.gov.

December 4–7
United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Trade Mission
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is organizing this trade mission.  Participating U.S. companies will have the opportunity to meet with potential local partners at business meetings, to receive a briefing about how to do business in the Dominican Republic, and to participate in networking activities. For more information contact Sheila Andujar of the USCFS, tel.: (809) 227-2121; ext. 222; e-mail: sheila.andujar@trade.gov.

 

December 5–7
Aerospace Innovation Forum
Montreal, Canada

The USFCS in Canada is organizing a U.S. delegation to this event. In addition to seminars and workshops, participants will receive a briefing from the Commercial Service on opportunities in the Canadian aerospace market and can sign up for pre-scheduled business meetings with potential buyers in Canada. For more information, contact Gina Bento of the USCFS, tel.: (514) 908-3660; e-mail: gina.bento@trade.gov.

 

December 7–8
Complying with U.S. Export Controls
Salt Lake City, Utah

This two-day program, organized by the USFCS and the Utah District Export Council, will feature specialists from the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security, who will provide an in-depth examination of the information exporters need to know to comply with U.S. export control requirements on commercial goods. There is a registration fee of $350. For more information, contact David Fiscus of the USFCS, tel.: (801) 255-1873; e-mail: david.fiscus@trade.gov.

December 8–10
Homeland Security India 2011
New Delhi, India

This show is one of the largest international exhibitions in India for commercial and homeland security and fire technologies. It will bring together professionals from a wide variety of industries, including financial services, retail, realty, and hospitality. In 2009, the show attracted more than 220 exhibitors and 11,000 trade visitors from 20 countries. For more information, contact Graylin Presbury of the USFCS, tel.: (202) 482-5158; e-mail: graylin.presbury@trade.gov.

December 13–15
POWER-GEN International 2011
Las Vegas, Nevada

This show is one of the industry’s leading events for electric utilities, independent power producers, project developers, architectural and engineering firms, waste-to-energy plant operators, financial and legal firms, cogenerators, self-generators, and other suppliers in the power generation sector. For more information, contact Shelby Peterson of the USFCS, tel.: (202) 482-5531; e-mail: shelby.peterson@trade.gov.

December 14–15
AES Compliance Seminar
San Juan, Puerto Rico

How well do you know the Foreign Trade Regulations (FTR) and the Automated Export System? Are you up to date on recent clarifications? This education seminar and workshop will provide the information to assist companies with these important elements of the exporting process. For more information, contact Jose Burgos of the USFCS, tel.: (787) 775-1992; e-mail: jose.burgos@trade.gov.

 

December 14–16
Hospital Infrastructure
Mumbai, India

This show is India’s premier international exhibition and conference on hospital infrastructure, supplies, planning, and healthcare development. It will include exhibits of building materials, flooring, roofing, glazing, medical system, radiology, diagnostics, hospital supplies, and furniture. For more information, contact Kim-Bang Nguyen of the Import Administration, tel.: (202) 482-4805; e-mail: kim-bang.nguyen@mail.doc.

 

On the Horizon

January 10–13
2012 International CES
Las Vegas, Nevada

This event is the world’s largest trade show for broad-based consumer electronics technology. More than 2,000 exhibitors are expected to attend this year, showcasing 20,000 products spanning 30 different categories. The show will feature an on-site international commerce center, which offers private meeting rooms, Internet stations, a lounge area, and registration assistance. In addition, representatives from the Department of Commerce will be available to assist U.S. companies with any export-related questions and to help match U.S. sellers with international buyers. For more information, contact Vidya Desai of the USFCS, tel.: (202) 482-2311; e-mail: vidya.desai@mail.doc.gov.

January 11–14
International Jewelry Fair Tokyo
Tokyo, Japan

The Japanese jewelry market, with estimated retail sales in 2010 of $10.4 billion, is the third largest in the world after the United States and China. This show will offer U.S. companies the opportunity to test market their products and reach a wide variety of buyers from Japan and all parts of Asia. In 2011 the show attracted 35,902 visitors and 1,267 exhibiting companies from 36 countries. For more information, contact Anastasia Xenias of the USFCS, tel.: (212) 809-2685; e-mail: anastasia.xenias@trade.gov.

January 23–26
Arab Health
Dubai, United Arab Emirates

This is the largest healthcare show in the Middle East, offering participating companies the opportunity to showcase their products in one of the fastest growing and the most lucrative healthcare markets in the world. In 2011, the show hosted more than 2,200 companies and attracted almost 40,000 visitors. More than 140 U.S. companies attended, receiving quality inquires and conducting excellent business. For more information, contact Lisa Huot of the USFCS, tel.: (202) 482- 2796; e-mail: lisa.huot@trade.gov.

Posted in Commercial Service, Exporting, International Trade Administration, International Trade Update, Trade Missions, Trade Shows and Trade Events | Tagged | 6 Comments »

h1

Promoting Growth and Competitiveness in the Americas

November 1, 2011

This post contains external links. Please review our external linking policy.

By Eric Toler, an intern in the ITA’s Market Access and Compliance unit.

At the fifth Americas Competitiveness Forum, held this year in the Dominican Republic, representatives of more than 30 countries from throughout the Western Hemisphere pledged to take steps to foster long-term economic prosperity and support growth in trade throughout the region.

Francisco Sánchez, under secretary of commerce for international trade, addresses attendees of the Americas Competitiveness Forum, held October 5–7 in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. (U.S. Department of Commerce photo)

Francisco Sánchez, under secretary of commerce for international trade, addresses attendees of the Americas Competitiveness Forum, held October 5–7 in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. (U.S. Department of Commerce photo)

The United States sends more than 40 percent of its exports to the Western Hemisphere, making the region one of our most important trading partners. And with the recent passage of the Colombia and Panama free trade agreements, U.S. economic ties with the region will only deepen. On October 5–7 at the Americas Competitiveness Forum (ACF) in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, a delegation from the International Trade Administration (ITA) joined with its counterparts from throughout the Americas to chart a course for enhancing the competitiveness of the region’s economies, demonstrating the long-term commitment to strengthening economic ties with the region.

Fifth Gathering

This year’s event brought together more than 1,000 senior business and government officials. Participants included ministers of economy, industry, and finance from more than 30 countries throughout the Western Hemisphere. Also present were former and current heads of state, as well as representatives from civil society. Over the course of the ACF’s three days, Francisco Sánchez, under secretary of commerce for international trade and leader of the U.S. delegation, met with a number of his counterparts. He reiterated President Barack Obama’s commitment to forging new, mutually beneficial partnerships with the countries of the Western Hemisphere. In remarks at a plenary session, “Latin America and the United States: Vision 2020,” Sánchez noted that “success in the 21st century will be fueled by cooperation and community. We must help each other sharpen our competitive edges and build a better future for our peoples.”

Now in its fifth year, the ACF has emerged as the premier economic and commercial event of the Americas. The inaugural ACF was held in Atlanta, Georgia, in 2007. As host, the Department of Commerce was responsible for developing the core themes and unique programmatic structure of the event. The success of the inaugural ACF has been replicated in the subsequent four forums.

Regional Competitiveness

The ACF also featured the annual meeting of the Inter-American Competitiveness Network (or RIAC, for its Spanish acronym). RIAC was established in 2009 at the third ACF in Santiago, Chile. It brings together representatives from more than 30 national councils from throughout the Western Hemisphere’s to discuss the state of the region’s competitiveness, exchange experiences and best practices, and consider reforms and public policies.

High on the agenda at this year’s meeting of the RIAC was a vote on the Santo Domingo Consensus, a set of 10 policy objectives designed to promote a more competitive and prosperous region. Taking into account the need to foster growth and competitiveness amidst an environment of international economic uncertainty, the objectives of the Santo Domingo Consensus call for, among other goals, investment in education and human capital; improvements in infrastructure and the business environment; increased access to capital; and the promotion of trade(see sidebar).

RELATED: The Santo Domingo Consensus

Michael Camuñez, assistant secretary of commerce for market access and compliance, represented the United States at the RIAC meeting. He highlighted the importance of the objectives embodied in the Santo Domingo Consensus by noting that “in an increasingly competitive global marketplace, we must work together as a region. In doing so, we will create the jobs and sustained economic growth so vital to our respective futures.”

Summit of the Americas

The Santo Domingo Consensus was approved enthusiastically by members of the RIAC, and will next be presented to hemispheric leaders for their endorsement at the Summit of the Americas that is scheduled to be held in Cartagena, Colombia, in April 2012.

Both the ACF and RIAC provide a platform to promote reforms that will support economic growth in the Western Hemisphere and which will in turn help increase and encourage the export of U.S. products, services, and technologies throughout the Americas.

The next ACF, scheduled for October 2012, will be held in Cali, Colombia. For more information about this year’s ACF, go to www.competitivenessforum.com.

Posted in Competitiveness, International Trade Administration, International Trade Update, Market Access and Compliance, Trade Shows and Trade Events | Tagged , , , | 3 Comments »

h1

Seizing Opportunities Across the Globe: A Message from Under Secretary Francisco Sánchez

November 1, 2011

By Francisco J. Sánchez, Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade.

Francisco J. Sánchez, Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade

Francisco J. Sánchez, Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade

This month brought good news for the U.S. economy.

President Obama signed legislation approving the free trade agreements with Korea, Panama, and Colombia. These measures, when implemented, will support tens of thousands of American jobs, add billions to our gross domestic product and help provide a level playing field for U.S. firms in three significant international markets.

All of us at the International Trade Administration are committed to helping businesses seize these opportunities—in these three markets and across the globe. That’s why I’ve been engaged with various international representatives from the public and private sectors to strengthen our commercial relationships.

I want to highlight two significant trips:

In early October, I traveled to the Dominican Republic for the fifth Americas Competitiveness Forum. More than 1,000 attendees gathered from across the Western Hemisphere to exchange ideas and experiences. The region is vital to our economy; it’s the destination of more than 40 percent of U.S. exports.

Participants gathered to discuss ways to build on this success. One result of these talks: the Santo Domingo Consensus, a set of policy objectives designed to strengthen economic integration. You can read more about the Santo Domingo Consensus in this issue, but I can tell you that participants left the conference energized, and considering newer and greater possibilities.

From there, I went on to China, where I led a trade mission delegation of 19 U.S. biotechnology companies to both Beijing and Hong Kong. There is enormous potential in the market; China’s biotech sector is growing roughly 25 percent a year. Its market is huge in terms of sales and clinical trial opportunities, as well as potential investment that presents opportunities for U.S. companies here at home.

Case in point: DiaCarta, LLC, a California-based company that was a part of our delegation. During the mission, the firm signed a $2 million sales agreement to sell its cervical cancer testing products in China. Representatives of DiaCarta say that this deal will allow them to hire American workers—in short, their exports are generating economic activity. That is a trend we’re seeing all over.

Take Hong Kong, where I was privileged to present the Peace through Commerce Award—which was created by Thomas Jefferson—to Fred Lam, executive director of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council. Lam spearheads the Pacific Bridge Initiative (PBI), the first set of policy objectives developed by a foreign government to promote President Obama’s National Export Initiative on a bilateral basis.

Since its inception, the PBI has helped triple the number of export transactions to Asia by new-to-market U.S. firms. It’s a significant achievement, which is why I presented Mr. Lam with the award, and am looking forward to our continued partnership in the years ahead.

In total, my travels through different regions of the world were centered on the goals of increasing U.S. exports to support American jobs and businesses. I can tell you from firsthand experience abroad that the words “Made in America” mean something special. Products stamped with that phrase represent quality and value, which is why they are in great demand all over the world.

Let’s work together to turn these possibilities into progress for the American economy.

Until next time,
Francisco J. Sánchez

Posted in Competitiveness, Exporting, International Trade Administration, International Trade Update, Manufacturing, National Export Initiative, Trade Missions, Trade Shows and Trade Events | 1 Comment »

h1

Trade Talk at the World Economic Forum

October 24, 2011

This post contains external links. Please review our external linking policy.

Greg Bell is a writer in the International Trade Administration’s Office of Public Affairs.

“How can Arab economies better leverage regional and global trade to restart growth and drive economic development?”

To answer the question, the World Economic Forum convened a panel in Jordan — see video here — that included Under Secretary Francisco J. Sánchez and a host of economic leaders.

Moderated by Louisa Bojesen from CNBC Europe, the discussion focused on a number of topics ranging from the growth of global markets to the importance of trade agreements in generating economic activity in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

Under Secretary Sánchez stressed that:

  • With a growing population of over 370 million people, and an expanding regional GDP of over $2.5 trillion, MENA represents an enormous opportunity for mutually beneficial growth in trade and investment;
  • The United States is committed to helping spur entrepreneurship, investment and trade with (and within) the region to help meet the aspirations of all citizens;
  • A key to the future of MENA is an improved business climate, which includes regulatory cooperation and transparency; and
  • The MENA region is full of enormous potential which can be unlocked in part by providing greater opportunities to young people.

It was a fascinating conversation full of different ideas and perspectives. I urge you all to check out the video.

Posted in Competitiveness, International Trade Administration, Trade Shows and Trade Events | Tagged , , , | Leave a Comment »

h1

ITA Active at National Health IT Week

October 6, 2011

This post contains external links. Please review our external linking policy.

Fred W. Aziz is Associate Director of Technology and E-Commerce at International Trade Administration, where he covers innovation sectors such as cloud computing, health IT, and software.

Matthew Hein has been with the International Trade Administration for the past six years.  He currently serves as an International Trade Specialist on the Pharmaceutical and Medical Devices Team in the Office of Health and Consumer Goods.

Steve Miller is an International Trade Specialist in the International Trade Administration’s  Office of Service Industries where he is responsible for knowledge economy issues including health services, research and development services, and university commercialization.

Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Manufacturing and Services Maureen Smith Speaks at National Health IT Week

Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Manufacturing and Services Maureen Smith Speaks at National Health IT Week

On September 15, MAS Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Maureen Smith led off the HIMSS Policy Summit with a speech highlighting the export potential of the Health Information Technology (Health IT) sector, and available Commerce resources to help with that effort.  Through the MAS Health IT Team, which includes representatives from the Office of Health and Consumer Goods, the Office of Service Industries and the Office of Technology and E-Commerce, ITA has engaged  HIMSS and other trade associations to share information on the National Export Initiative and learn of industry’s priorities.

In addition to PDAS Smith’s address at the Policy Summit,  MAS staffers  Matt Hein and Steve Miller, spoke at HIMSS working group meetings, including the Diversity Business Roundtable and the Government Relations Roundtable. In all of these sessions, ITA staff placed an emphasis on collaborating with industry in all aspects of the export life cycle, from research and market intelligence, to export facilitation and advocacy to the resolution of commercial disputes.  This engagement has been paying dividends, with Health IT firms increasingly engaged in commercial activities overseas.

PDAS Smith’s address and ITA outreach coincided with National Health IT week, which also featured industry events and addresses  by Administration and Congressional officials, along with a Presidential proclamation.

As ITA moves forward on other initiatives in this space, the Health IT team is eager to hear from relevant firms and industry groups about their challenges and opportunities.  For additional information please contact HealthIT@trade.gov.

Posted in International Trade Administration, Manufacturing and Services, Trade Shows and Trade Events | Leave a Comment »

h1

International Trade Calendar – November 2011

October 4, 2011

International Trade Calendar

November 2011

Here is a list of selected international trade events of interest, including ITA-sponsored events and upcoming international trade fairs. The U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service (USFCS) maintains a comprehensive listing of industry shows at http://www.export.gov. A fee may be charged for participation in some of these events. For more information, see the full event listing on the Web or contact the staff person listed in the event description.

November 2–6
Expo Vyva 2011
Santiago, Chile

Now in its third year, this event is one of the premier shows for the travel and tourism industry in Chile. In 2010, it brought together more that 2,700 trade visitors and 20,000 members of the public. For more information, contact Claudia Melkonian of the USFCS, tel.: + 56 (2) 330-3312; e-mail: claudia.melkonian@trade.gov.

 

November 2–9
American Film Market 2011
Santa Monica, California

This annual trade show for independent motion picture production and distribution companies regularly attracts industry leaders from more than 70 countries. Attendees include acquisition and development executives, agents, attorneys, directors, distributors, financiers, and producers. For more information, contact Micaela Brown of the USFCS, tel.: (202) 482-0578; e-mail: micaela.brown@trade.gov.

 

November 7
Webinar: Small Business Administration Financing Information and Useful Export Resources
Middletown, Connecticut

This one-hour Webinar will focus on export loan guarantee programs and export assistance resources available to small and medium-sized companies from the Small Business Administration. There is no fee to participate. For more information, contact Anne Evans of the USFCS, tel.: (860) 638-6953; e-mail: anne.evans@trade.gov.

 

November 8–11
Product Literature Center at Aqua Ukraine 2011
Kiev, Ukraine

U.S. companies in the water supply and wastewater treatment sectors will have the opportunity to promote their products and services by sending their catalogs for exhibit at the U.S. Product Literature Center at this show. The cost to participate is $300 per company. For more information, contact Olena Stephanska of the USFCS, tel.: +380 (44) 490-4054; e-mail: olena.stephanska@trade.gov.

 

November 9–11
Cosmoprof Asia 2011
Hong Kong, China

This event is one of the most comprehensive international cosmetics trade shows in Asia, showcasing a wide range of products and services. Show organizers expect more than 1,200 exhibitors and 15 national pavilions, including a United States pavilion. For more information, contact Edward Kimmel of the USFCS, tel.: (202) 482-3640; e-mail: edward.kimmel@trade.gov.

 

November 13–17
West Bank ICT Catalog Show 2011
Ramallah, West Bank

The USFCS is organizing a catalog show at Expotech for U.S. companies active in the information and communications technology sector. More than 50 exhibitors and 20,000 trade visitors are expected to attend. For more information, contact Assad Barsoum of the USFCS, tel.: +972 (2) 625-4742; e-mail: assad.barsoum@trade.gov.

 

November 16–19
MEDICA 2011
Düsseldorf, Germany

This show is one of the world’s largest international fairs for medical equipment. It is expected to draw 137,000 trade visitors from 85 countries to see vendors of medical equipment and services, laboratory technology, clinical chemistry and diagnostic equipment, and related product lines and services. There will be three U.S. pavilions at the show. For more information, contact Anette Salama of the USFCS, tel.: + 49 (211) 737-767-60; e-mail: anette.salama@trade.gov.

 

November 18–20
Philoxenia 2011
Thessaloniki, Greece

This show is Greece’s premier annual international travel and tourism exhibition. In 2010, more than 20,000 visitors and 8,500 tourism professionals from Greece and 42 other countries attended the show. The USFCS is organizing a Literature Promotion Program, which customizes and expands on the traditional catalog show. The cost to participate is $300 per company. For more information, contact Irene Ralli of the USFCS, tel.: +30 (210) 720-2302, 2303; e-mail: irene ralli@trade.gov.

 

November 30–December 2
International Workboat Show 2011
New Orleans, Louisiana

This event is one of the largest commercial marine trade shows in North America, serving businesses working on coastal, inland, and offshore waters. It will showcase leading commercial marine manufacturers, boat builders, distributors, and service providers, as well as the latest technologies for offshore supply vessels, tugs, barges, boat building, marine construction, and more. For more information, contact Brie Knox of the USFCS, tel.: (504) 589-6703; e-mail: brie.knox@trade.gov.

 

 

On the Horizon

December 4–7
United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Trade Mission
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is organizing this trade mission.  Participating U.S. companies will have the opportunity to meet with potential local partners at business meetings, to receive a briefing about how to do business in the Dominican Republic, and to participate in networking activities. For more information contact Sheila Andujar of the USCFS, tel.: (809) 227-2121, ext. 222; e-mail: sheila.andujar@trade.gov.

 

December 5–9
Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Executive Business Development Mission
Ankara, Istanbul, and Izmir, Turkey

Francisco Sánchez, under secretary of commerce for international trade, will lead this mission. Participants will benefit from meetings with potential partners, a networking reception at the U.S. ambassador’s residence, and one-on-one meetings with government decisionmakers. Registration closes on October 17, 2011. For more information, contact Glen Roberts of the USFCS, tel.: (559) 348-9859; e-mail: glen.roberts@trade.gov, or Serdar Cetinkaya of the USFCS, tel.: +90 (312) 457-7203; e-mail: serdar.cetinkaya@trade.gov.

 

December 7–8
Complying with U.S. Export Controls
Salt Lake City, Utah

This two-day program, organized by the USFCS and the Utah District Export Council, will feature specialists from the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security, who will provide an in-depth examination of the information exporters need to know to comply with U.S. export control requirements on commercial goods. The program is well suited for any company or research institution that needs a comprehensive understanding of their obligations under the U.S. Export Administration Regulations. There is a registration fee of $350. For more information, contact David Fiscus of the USFCS, tel.: (801) 255-1873; e-mail: david.fiscus@trade.gov.

 

December 13–15
POWER-GEN International 2011
Las Vegas, Nevada

This show is one of the industry’s leading events for electric utilities, independent power producers, project developers, architectural and engineering firms, waste-to-energy plant operators, financial and legal firms, cogenerators, self-generators, and other suppliers in the power generation sector. Nuclear Power International will be held in conjunction with this show. More than 19,000 trade visitors are expected to attend. For more information, contact Shelby Peterson of the USFCS, tel.: (202) 482-5531; e-mail: shelby.peterson@trade.gov.

 

Posted in Commercial Service, Exporting, International Trade Administration, International Trade Update, Trade Missions, Trade Shows and Trade Events | Tagged | 2 Comments »

h1

International Buyer Program Accepting Applications for 2013

October 4, 2011

by Vidya Desai, an international trade specialist in the U.S. Commercial Service.

Trade show organizers interested in participating in the Department of Commerce’s International Buyer Program (IBP) during 2013 have until October 31, 2011, to submit an application. Under the program, trade specialists from the International Trade Administration’s U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service (USFCS) and the Department of State recruit and lead foreign buyer delegations to approximately 35 participating IBP shows in the United States.

IBP brings international buyers together with U.S. firms by promoting leading U.S. trade shows in industries with high export potential. This cooperative effort between the Department of Commerce and trade show organizers benefits U.S. firms exhibiting at selected events by providing them with practical, hands-on assistance, such as export counseling and market analysis by ITA’s country and industry experts; a listing in an “export interest” directory; and matchmaking services.

Show organizers participating in IBP also agree to provide access to an international business center at their shows, where representatives from exhibiting U.S. companies can meet privately with prospective international buyers, sales representatives, and potential business partners.

In 2010, IBP brought 13,000 foreign buyers and their representatives to U.S. trade shows.

The application period for participating in IBP during 2013 opened on September 1, 2011, and will close on October 31, 2011. Full details about the application procedures were published in the Federal Register (at 76 FR 54,428) on September 1, 2011. A copy of the Federal Register notice, the application form, and supplementary information are available on the Web at www.export.gov/IBP, or contact IBP by e-mail to request an application package: IBP2013@trade.gov.

Posted in Commercial Service, International Trade Administration, International Trade Update, Trade Shows and Trade Events | Tagged , | 2 Comments »

h1

Inaugural U.S.-Turkey Business Council Meets in Istanbul

October 4, 2011

By Mary Trupo, Director of Public Affairs for the International Trade Administration.

The inaugural meeting of the U.S.-Turkey Business Council was held September 19 in Istanbul, Turkey. It brought together 16 U.S. and Turkish business leaders to provide joint policy recommendations to both governments on ways to strengthen bilateral economic relations for expanded trade and investment.

The council was established in late 2010, and is made up of senior-level executives from both countries, who meet at least once a year. The meeting in Istanbul was cochaired by Francisco Sánchez, under secretary of commerce for international trade, and Ahmet Yakici, Turkey’s under secretary for economy.

The importance of improving commercial ties between the two countries was underscored by Sánchez in remarks to attendees, “While our close government-to-government ties are essential, our companies are ultimately conducting the business necessary for economic development. Strong involvement of the private sector is critical to our goal of increasing U.S.-Turkey trade and investment.”

According to the latest trade figures, through July 2011 total U.S. trade with Turkey reached almost $12 billion. This represented a nearly 50 percent increase over the same period in 2010. If this trend continues, full-year 2011 bilateral trade between the United States and Turkey will likely break all previous records. Through July, U.S. exports to Turkey totaled $8.8 billion.

Turkey is a priority market under President Obama’s National Export Initiative (NEI). Increasing trade and investment ties with this trading partner will help achieve the NEI’s goal of doubling U.S. exports by the end of 2014, supporting millions of U.S. jobs, while also improving the Turkish people’s access to the world-class products and services of U.S. businesses.

Posted in Exporting, International Trade Administration, International Trade Update, National Export Initiative, Trade Shows and Trade Events | Tagged | 2 Comments »

h1

Featured Trade Event: Trade Winds Asia

October 4, 2011

May 14–22, 2012
Trade Winds Asia
Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam

Three Buddha stone heads, Singapore. (© Hayden Bird/iStock)

Three Buddha stone heads, Singapore. (© Hayden Bird/iStock)

East Asia is one of the most lucrative regions in the world for U.S. exporters, with growing sales during the past several years. Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam together purchased more than $47.7 billion worth of U.S. merchandise in 2009 and more than $62.7 billion in 2010. Trade Winds Asia can help U.S. companies take advantage of those markets.

The central event of Trade Winds Asia will be a three-day business development conference on May 16–18, 2012, in Singapore. Before and after the conference, four separate trade missions will offer participating businesses the opportunity to visit Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, or Vietnam.

The conference location, Singapore, is home to a sophisticated and modern economy that offers excellent opportunities for U.S. firms interested in penetrating the Asian market. It offers free port status; a straightforward, English-speaking, U.S. style of doing business; strong intellectual property rights protection; and suffers from very little corruption. The country is a major trading hub. It imports and exports products from consumer goods to high-technology and industrial goods for reexport to third countries.

By participating in Trade Winds Asia, companies will benefit from a variety of events tailored to their needs, including prearranged consultations with up to 13 specialists of the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service representing 14 countries, access to high-visibility business networking events with leading industry and government officials, and prearranged business meetings with representatives from firms throughout the region.

Previous Trade Winds that focused on Europe and the Americas have offered outstanding returns. One participant from last year’s Trade Winds event in Mexico said, “We had a chance to interact with local and global companies and shared experiences that cannot be learned in any other way [than] just by ‘doing it.’ The forum was a terrific channel to accelerate and enhance entering a region for us.”

The cost to participate in Trade Winds Asia ranges from $1,950 to $4,850 per company for one representative, depending on firm size and the number of mission stops. There is a $500 fee for each additional company participant in the Singapore event and $250 for each additional mission stop. Mission participants are responsible for travel, lodging, most meals, and incidentals. Applications must be received by March 30, 2012. For more information about the trade mission, visit its Web site or contact Shannon Christenbury of the USFCS, tel.: (704) 333-4886; e-mail: shannon.christenbury@trade.gov, or Judy Kornfeld of the USFCS, tel.: (703) 235-0331; e-mail: judy.kornfeld@trade.gov.

Posted in Commercial Service, Exporting, International Trade Administration, International Trade Update, Trade Shows and Trade Events | Tagged , , , , | 1 Comment »

h1

The MAGIC of New Trade Opportunities and Partnerships

September 9, 2011

After being buffeted by fierce competition in recent years, the U.S. textile and apparel industry is positioning itself for success in the 21st century. Ample evidence could be found at a recent trade show in Las Vegas.

by Greg Bell, a writer in the International Trade Administration’s Office of Public Affairs.

Francisco Sánchez, under secretary for international trade (left), and Chris DeMoulin, executive vice president of Advanstar Fashion Group and president of MAGIC International (right), cut the ribbon that officially opened the Sourcing at MAGIC show on August 22, 2011, in Las Vegas, Nevada. (photo courtesy U.S. Association of Importers of Textiles and Apparel)

Francisco Sánchez, under secretary for international trade (left), and Chris DeMoulin, executive vice president of Advanstar Fashion Group and president of MAGIC International (right), cut the ribbon that officially opened the Sourcing at MAGIC show on August 22, 2011, in Las Vegas, Nevada. (photo courtesy U.S. Association of Importers of Textiles and Apparel)

Summer days in Nevada can be hot. But they are nothing compared to the economic activity that was recently heating up in Las Vegas on August 21–24, 2011, at the fashion industry’s preeminent trade event: Sourcing at MAGIC.

This twice-yearly show has become a must-go-to event for the industry, bringing together representatives from the world’s top apparel producing countries, who are always in search of new partnerships to address their production needs. This year’s show, however, was unlike any other from the past. For the first time, the U.S. and Western Hemisphere supply chain served as the focus, with a pavilion and summit, “Sourcing in the Americas,” organized by the Department of Commerce.

The U.S textile industry along with apparel brands and retailers had the idea of focusing on the supply chain. Although they each represent different and often competing interests, they recognized the mutual benefits of this effort. Brands and retailers want to source closer to home, which results in improved quality and increased speed to market. And, naturally, the textile industry wants to increase its exports of yarn, fabric, and other products along the supply chain. It is a win–win for all parties, which is why the Obama administration was so eager to support the initiative.

New Opportunities for U.S. Producers

The International Trade Administration’s Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA) and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) partnered with the organizers of MAGIC to hold the “Sourcing in the Americas” summit and pavilion. During a three-day period, exhibitors showcased their quality products by highlighting the incredible new opportunities in the region.

To mark the significance of this unique effort, Francisco Sánchez, under secretary for international trade, joined Chris DeMoulin, president of MAGIC, and others in a ribbon-cutting ceremony on August 22. Sánchez spoke about the importance of seizing the moment. “I feel an incredible amount of excitement and energy in the room. That’s because we all see the possibilities that this new event will lead to new partnerships, new ideas, new markets for your products, and new opportunities for success.”

Efforts such as the pavilion and summit will lead to job creation. Despite all the challenges facing U.S. textile and apparel companies, the industry continues to play an important role in the economy. In 2010, it generated more than $20 billion in exports, which supported nearly 600,000 workers and made the industry one of the largest manufacturing employers in the United States. Such job creation is especially important for rural areas, such as those located in the Southeast.

About the Office of Textiles and Apparel

The International Trade Administration’s Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA) administers programs and strategies to improve domestic and international competitiveness of the U.S. textiles, apparel, footwear, and travel goods industries. For U.S. manufacturers, suppliers, or exporters, OTEXA can help plan market entry through a variety of services, such as trade promotion events, online resources and personalized counseling, market research, and trade missions and shows. It also works with industry representatives to identify and resolve trade barriers in foreign markets and unfair trade practices. To learn more about the services that OTEXA makes available to U.S. exporters, visit its Web site at http://otexa.ita.doc.gov.

Promoting Western Hemisphere Trade

The Western Hemisphere accounts for roughly two-thirds of all U.S. textile and apparel exports—the largest of any market. In 2010, the United States exported nearly $13 billion worth of textiles and apparel to the region. (photo © skowa/iStock)

The Western Hemisphere accounts for roughly two-thirds of all U.S. textile and apparel exports—the largest of any market. In 2010, the United States exported nearly $13 billion worth of textiles and apparel to the region. (photo © skowa/iStock)

The Western Hemisphere is critical in promoting such U.S. exports. It accounts for roughly two-thirds of all U.S. textile and apparel exports—the largest of any market. In 2010, the United States exported nearly $13 billion worth of textiles and apparel to the region, which is an increase of nearly 20 percent over 2009.

Organizers of MAGIC highlighted the value of countries in the Western Hemisphere and the United States as trading partners and brought together regional businesses and retailers to showcase what each offers. More than 90 countries from the region were represented, including Colombia, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, and Peru. Preliminary feedback from participants indicated that the meetings held because of the show have led to incredible progress.

Textile Exports and Haitian Recovery

Haiti was a prominent presence at the show. With the help of USTR and funding from the U.S. Agency for International Development, several large Haitian apparel manufacturers attended MAGIC. The manufacturers reported interest from nearly 200 potential customers, including representatives from some of the world’s most prominent clothing companies, who are looking for sourcing alternatives because of rising costs in Asia.

Contacts and sales generated from the show will make significant contributions to rebuilding Haiti, which was devastated by the 2010 earthquake. The apparel sector accounts for 90 percent of Haiti’s exports to the United States, and growth of this industry is critical to the recovery and expansion of the Haitian economy. Increased textile exports will lead to employment growth and new hope for many of its people.

Global Challenges and Solutions

Haiti is just one example of the strides made because of the exchange of ideas and experiences at “Sourcing in the Americas.” And it can be a model for the future of exporting. Sánchez remarked to attendees that the MAGIC event and the “Sourcing in the Americas” summit are recognition “that today’s global challenges require global solutions. In other words, all of us are going to have to work together—across city lines, state lines, borders, and oceans—to position ourselves for success in the 21st-century economy. We’ve got to be in constant search of fresh ideas, opportunities, and partnerships.”

Posted in International Trade Update, Textiles, Trade Shows and Trade Events | Tagged , , , | 6 Comments »

Older Entries »
Follow

Get every new post delivered to your Inbox.

Join 88 other followers