|
March 2013 - in this issue...
|
STRATEGIC LINKS
|
eCertify, the efficient way to process Certificates of Origin, saves you time and money.
The Chamber is proud to offer eCertify technology as our standard to process Certificates of Origin. With eCertify, exporters and freight forwarders have a seamless and streamlined electronic solution providing real value in cost savings and efficiency gains. Get started today.
Read more on the process behind issuing Certificates of Origin. |
|
TRADE TIPS
|
Are you leaving value-added tax (VAT) money behind in Europe? The deadline for claiming back last years business related VAT incurred on events, hotels, transportation and other costs in many of the European Union countries is fast approaching. Contact Euro VAT Refund, Inc. before Monday, April 1 if you are interested in a VAT refund. Euro VAT Refund, Inc. is a leading U.S. financial services firm specializing in assisting U.S. companies with VAT management, registration and refund when they do business internationally. Learn more.
|
|
TRADE INTELLIGENCE BRIEF
|
Trade news from around the worldOnce a month, the L.A. Area Chamber produces an email brief that includes trade news from around the world. The brief is a Global Trades Council exclusive email benefit that is later published online. Read more.
|
|
|
| TOP STORY |
Trade Commissioners Networking Group meets with US Foods executive
In February, members of the Chamber's Trade Commissioners Networking Group participated in a private briefing and tour of one of the largest Southern California food distribution centers of US Foods - the nation's leading food service distributors. The group met with Michael Martin, director of purchasing, to discuss and form collaborations on the company's recent expansion abroad.
|
INSIDE THE CHAMBER
|
Chamber meets with Italian Trade Commissioner
 Last month, Chairman Riccardo Monti discussed his interest in strengthening the strategic trade and investment relationship between Italy and California at a private meeting with Chamber members. Italian companies must first invest in Los Angeles to begin the process of enhancing exports, imports and investment activities, Monti said. Monti was joined by Italian Consul General Giuseppe Perrone and Italian Trade Commissioner in Los Angeles Carlo Bocchi. The trio met with Chamber President & CEO Gary Toebben, Senior Vice President of Global Initiatives Carlos J. Valderrama; Chamber Board Members Cameron Smith, Herbalife, and Paul Meyer, Northrop Grumman Corporation; and Joe Ahn, Northrop Grumman.
|
Chamber receives update on strategies for expanding California exports
 In February, the Global Initiatives Council heard from Kevin Klowden, director of the California Center at the Milken Institute, on his research on expanding California's exports. "California has to realize that we can't rely on the status quo, because that's not working when it comes to exporting ... Regional export strategy, as promoted by the Chamber, is a good strategy," said Klowden. He also addressed California's export advantages, current challenges and recommendations regarding private-public partnerships to boost the State's exports.
|
Chamber participates in conference on China's presence in Latin America
 The Chamber and the Institute of the Americas recently co-organized a conference focused on China's economic and industrial presence in several Latin American markets, and its effect of changing the competitive landscape in several industry sectors. The low prices and competitiveness of Chinese firms marketing consumers products is now a serious challenge for U.S. firms. China is one of the largest buyers of raw materials and agricultural products in Latin America.
|
Chamber participates in UCLA Anderson - Export Champions Seminar
 The half-day seminar in late February included briefings about California competitiveness and challenges in global markets. The UCLA Anderson School of Management's Global Access Program, now in its 15th year with more than 450 MBA/client company projects, was showcased as a vehicle to develop successful export business plans. "The biggest challenge for small companies is not realizing the business opportunities in foreign markets," said Jonathan Watson, director of international sales, Alvarado Mfg. Co., Inc.
|
Chamber participates in Senate hearing on Panama Canal expansion
 The Chamber was invited by State Sen. Curren D. Price, Jr., chair, Senate Committee on Business, Professions and Economic Development, to participate in a public hearing on the impact of the expansion of the Panama Canal to California. Chamber , Senior Vice President for Global Initiatives Carlos J. Valderrama presented the Chamber's international programs and initiatives that serve to create regional employment through exports. The role of the Los Angeles Regional Export Council was presented as a model for other cities and states.
|
WORLD TRADE WEEK NEWS
|
Have your company in front of hundreds during World Trade Week
The most extensive and unique program of its kind in the country, World Trade Week (WTW), an initiative of the Chamber dedicates itself to educating the public on the positive aspects of international trade on the local and national economy. We encourage you to support this very special program - in its 87th year - by becoming a sponsor. As a sponsor, your company will have the unique opportunity to integrate its marketing and charitable goals by supporting international trade educational programs and scholarships, while gaining recognition throughout the year. Learn more or contact Jasmin Sakai-Gonzalez, 213.580.7569. |
World Trade Week participates in Los Angeles Harbor College career fair
 World Trade Week representatives recently participated as exhibitors in a Road to Success career fair hosted by Los Angeles Harbor College, where representatives distributed the WTW Career Guide and discussed trade career paths with students. Learn more about scholarship opportunities for students.
|
UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS
|
|
Global Initiatives Council Meeting, April 17
 Join the Chamber's Global Initiatives Council on Wednesday, April 17 to hear from Elizabeth Stephenson, McKinsey & Company, Inc. The global trade of goods and services accounts for more than a third of global GDP, up from just 20 percent 20 years ago. Stephenson will share the McKinsey perspective on the role of trade in the global economy and highlight emerging trends in trade, including the shifting balance between developed and emerging economies, the growing role of South-South trade, and the impact of near shoring. She will focus on key issues for trade as it relates to our Southern California trade corridors. Register now or contact Carlos Valderrama, 213.580.7570.
|
|
TRADE COMMISSIONERS CORNER
|
Upcoming Session: U.S. Customs & FDA Briefing
Thursday, March 14, 9 a.m. at the Chamber
Members of the Trade Commissioners Networking Group are invited to a briefing focused on U.S. import procedures with executives from the Food and Drug Administration and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. This meeting is organized by the World BASC Organization.
TCNG was established to provide the infrastructure and venue where foreign diplomats, including trade commissioners, can develop their own international trade strategies and programs as they perform their professional responsibilities. The Chamber is committed to working closely with countries who are actively promoting trade and economic opportunities. Contact Jasmin Sakai-Gonzalez, 213.580.7569.
|
ON YOUR RADAR
|
Los Angeles trade numbers - tops in the nation
 Los Angeles' trade with the world eclipsed the $400 billion mark for the first time in history in 2012, rising to a record $403.96 billion. It's the first time any U.S. Customs District has exceeded the $400 billion level. Just as importantly, L.A. reclaimed its position as the highest value customs district in the nation. In 2011, the New York Customs District beat out L.A. in total value. In 2012, L.A. took back the top spot it had for much of the last decade. Trade at the L.A. Customs District has grown from $212.17 billion in 2001 to $403.96 billion in 2012. International trade observers are hopeful that this will be a leading indicator of a stronger economic recovery for our region. Read more.
|
|
COMMUNITY EVENTS
|
Bangladesh Furniture & Interior Decor Expo, March 23
Free TradeConnect Export Workshop, April 2
Asia/Pacific Business Outlook (APBO) Conference, April 8-9
Safety & Security Trade mission- Seguridad Trade Show, April 23
Milken Institute 2013 Global Conference, April 28
ACCESS 2013: International Trade Forum, May 1
The 28th World Ports Conference, May 7
China 2013 International Trade and Expo, May 12
North Africa Water Tech Trade Mission 2013 Algeria & Morocco, May 25
Global Action Forum and Awards, May 28
Visit the International Trade Calendar for a complete listing.
To submit an event or for more information on any of the information in this newsletter, contact Jasmin Sakai-Gonzalez, 213.580.7569 |
|
|
|
