Thank You From Assistant Secretary of Commerce

The Chamber was recently recognized by Arun Venkataraman, Assistant Secretary of Commerce, for our unwavering commitment to promoting the Commerce Department's export programs within the underserved communities of the Los Angeles region. These programs are vital to ensuring all businesses can compete globally. This commendation acknowledges our role in fostering stronger U.S. businesses, advancing environmental sustainability, and driving economic growth and job opportunities through strategic trade promotion. Read the letter here.

Chamber Welcomes New Paraguay Official to DCOG

The Chamber met with Manuel Ruiz Diaz, Consul General and Consular Official Marta A. Cristaldo Cabral of the Consulate of Paraguay, Los Angeles. The meeting at the Chamber provided an opportunity to extend a warm welcome to Ruiz Diaz as the new Consul General. As members of our Diplomatic and Commercial Officer Group, Ruiz Diaz discussed Paraguay’s trade goals and the importance of the Paraguayan diaspora in promoting trade. While the U.S. isn't a primary trade partner of Paraguay, the South American nation exports important food products such as beef and soybeans as well as auto parts.

Chamber Meets with Ecuadorian Trade Commissioner

The Chamber met with Daniela Muñoz, Trade Commissioner of Ecuador in Los Angeles, and Santiago Benites, Trade Promotion Officer for ProEcuador Los Angeles, to discuss advocacy for the Innovation and Development in Ecuador Act. The Act was introduced earlier this year and would make Ecuador an eligible beneficiary of the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act to lower tariffs on exports to the U.S. Additionally, Muñoz and Benites advocated for the renewal of the U.S. General System of Preferences (GSP), which would allow Ecuador and other developing countries to continue exporting certain goods to the U.S. duty-free or on reduced tariffs. The GSP renewal could lead to expanded market access for regional exporters and create opportunities for regional businesses looking to export goods to Ecuador.

U.S. Trade Representative Supports Hispanic Heritage Month

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai released a statement last week acknowledging the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15. This celebration recognizes the pivotal roles Latinos have played in shaping the nation, advocating for equity, and prioritizing inclusive prosperity through government initiatives and trade policies. The Chamber is a proud supporter of Hispanic Heritage Month, and we believe in the Ambassador's mission to use trade to benefit all citizens of our country. Read the full statement here.

Port of Long Beach Awarded Security Grant

The Department of Homeland Security recently announced the Port of Long Beach will receive a $2.7 million grant to enhance security and ensure smooth cargo movement during emergencies. The funding from the Port Security Grant Program will modernize security networks, fortify existing systems, and improve disaster resilience. The swift and reliable movement of cargo is crucial during large-scale emergencies and these funds will help the port modernize its security network and infrastructure.

UAW Strikes Against Big Three Automakers

The United Auto Workers (UAW) union went on strike last week against the Big Three automakers, General Motors, Ford and Chrysler owner Stellantis for the first time in history. The strike will halt the production of several vehicles in Missouri, Michigan and Ohio. Both the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach handle auto parts imports and exports. A long-term UAW strike could disrupt auto parts supply chains by hampering production and increasing costs, affecting the broader economy as well as the San Pedro-based ports.

Export-Import Bank’s Annual Conference
The Export-Import Bank's 2023 Annual Conference is coming to Washington, D.C. on Oct. 19. The event, themed "Create Locally, Export Globally," will highlight the Make More in America Initiative and the importance of supporting U.S. manufacturing, supply chains, and American jobs. The conference brings together business and government leaders from around the globe for networking and education on trade financing tools. Register here and use the code "LAChamber2023" for an additional 10% discount on early bird registration.