Blog / The Business Perspective
On a Mission to Strengthen Our International Ties
August 8, 2018
by Maria S. Salinas
Last week, I returned from joining L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti for a portion of his 10-day trade mission in Asia. I was excited to participate and to see so many Chamber members join the Mayor’s delegation, which visited Tokyo, Seoul, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Hong Kong.
The Chamber supports Mayor Garcetti’s efforts to expand trade opportunities, investment and tourism in growing global markets, not only for the benefit of our members, but also for the greater Los Angeles region. Participating in the Mayor’s delegation to Asia, therefore, seemed fitting as I begin my new role with the Chamber.
Asia’s economic growth is expected to outpace any other region by the end of 2020, and the Mayor’s decision to visit these cities is important in our own efforts to reach significant growing markets and make connections to expand and grow internationally.
This trade mission not only strengthened ties in one of the fastest growing regional economies in the world, but also it will undoubtedly help develop global opportunities and create jobs. Among our top trading partners, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam and Hong Kong represent a collective $98 billion in trade with L.A.
I saw first-hand the international business community’s attraction to L.A. The trip also gave me an opportunity to deepen our relationships with foreign business leaders. It was clear to me that this Chamber plays an integral role in furthering global trade and foreign investment. I was proud to represent the Chamber.
While I only took part in the visit to Japan and South Korea, the Chamber was well represented in Vietnam and Hong Kong with our first vice chair Jerry Neuman, who, on behalf of the Chamber, signed an important Memorandum of Understanding in Vietnam that will foster bilateral trade between our two regions.
I am excited to continue our work with the Mayor’s office and his international team to broaden our role in trade with these regions, and to support future trade missions to global markets.
To view the Mayor's Asia Trade Mission photo gallery, click here.
Comments
This is great news, the Chamber has always has a strong international affairs department. It?ll be interesting to see what is their take on the imposed import tariffs.
Posted by: Suzanna @ 9:13:50 am
I have come to value the Chamber's strong interest in our community's export potential. If I can be of assistance, please let me know. Carlos Valderama knows of my company and interest in Export.
Posted by: Richard S. Brent @ 9:09:59 am
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