Forum delves into Mexico exporting opportunities

The Missouri Hispanic Business, Trade and Culture Commission will hold an informational event 9 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Sept. 14 at the Governor’s Office Building to discuss market opportunities in Mexico for Missouri companies.

The forum, co-sponsored by the Missouri Department of Economic Development’s International Trade & Investment Office, is in conjunction with National Hispanic Heritage Month.

Industry professionals and representatives from successful Missouri exporting companies will cover topics such as logistics and credit solutions for exporters, exporting myths and benefits, the best market opportunities and U.S. export resources.

A representative from one local company is scheduled to speak at the forum. Chris Nicoll of MarineGrade Marketing in Nixa will discuss the North American Free Trade Agreement Certificate of Origin, a form used by the United States, Canada and Mexico to certify that goods qualify for preferential tariff treatment detailed under NAFTA.

Lunch will be a Mexican buffet and will be followed by keynote speaker Hon. Everardo Suarez, Mexican consul general and Kansas City Mexican consulate.

The cost to attend is $35. To view the forum’s agenda or to register, visit the commission’s Web site, www.hbtcc.ded.mo.gov.

Missouri set a record in 2006 with $12.8 billion in sales to 191 countries, and Mexico was one of the state’s top 10 export recipients that year.