Export Overview

Local domestic businesses often receive unexpected orders from overseas, presenting opportunities to expand into the international market. However, many businesses lack the critical expertise to proceed. This seminar is designed to help first-time exporters understand the process, as well as to assist those already exporting products increase export sales.

Opening Remarks

The Honorable M. J. Khan, Chairman,
City of Houston’s Protocol and International Liaison Committee
· International Marketing
Ellen-Lenny Passageno, Commercial Officer, U.S. Dept. of Commerce, Export Assistance Center
Presentation of basic procedures of export marketing including market research, as well as information about the many sources of assistance.
· Export Licensing and Other Legal Requirements
Jamie A. Joiner, Attorney and Licensed, Baker & Hostetler
Covers various legal issues affecting exporters, such as Export Administration regulations, trade sanctions and embargoes, Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, export declaration filings and more.
· International Methods of Payment/Financing
Julio Morejón, Vice President and Lending Product
Manager for Commercebank, N.A. and MSF Group
An overview of various methods of securing payment in international transactions and financing options for U.S. exporters.
· Financing by the U.S. Small Business Administration
Miguel Ruiz, Lead Lender Relations Specialist, SBA
Alternate forms of financing for U.S. exporters will be presented.
· International Transportation
Jolie Cosman, President and CEO, Century Freight Corporation
Overview of international transportation options, how to locate a transportation provider and the role of the U.S. freight forwarder and foreign customs broker.

IMPORT SESSION ON OCT. 26
Import Overview

Every day U.S. consumers use products and commodities from all over the world. Many companies hesitate to import because the process appears to be complex. Don’t miss this opportunity to demystify the import process by learning from experts.

· U.S. Import Requirements
Kathy Coffman, Import Specialist, U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Provides an introduction to U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the requirements for importing including: tariff classification (HTSUS); determining duty rates; country of origin marking requirements; Import documentation: invoices, certificates of origin, bonds; entry/clearance process.
· Legal Compliance for Importers
Jamie A. Joiner, Attorney, Baker Hostetler
Provides an introduction to legal requirements of importing, illustrated with case studies and examples.
· International Methods of Payment/Financing for U.S. Importers
Juan Morejón, Vice President and Lending Product
Manager for Commercebank, N.A. and MSF Group.
An overview of various methods of financing options for U.S. Importers, including methods of payment: letters of credit, sight draft.
· Customs Broker
John Heimsath, LCHB, ACM Logistics and Consulting
Provides an introduction to the critical role of the customs broker in import transactions; how to select a broker; logistics issues such as warehousing; and special issues.

In collaboration with
U.S. Department of Commerce, Export Assistance Center
and
Houston District Export Council

Underwritten by

2006 IMPORT/EXPORT OVERVIEW
Registration Form

To register please complete and return this form.
Seminar Location: Greater Houston Partnership, 1200 Smith St., Suite 700
Seminar Date: October 24 & October 26, 2006
Registration & Networking Breakfast: 8:45 - 9 a.m.
Seminar Time: 9 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Seminar & Networking Breakfast Cost: Member or College ID $20 per session OR $40 for two sessions
Non-member $40 per session OR $80 for two sessions

Please register by Friday, October 20. Registration cannot be processed without payment. No refunds after by Friday, October 20.
Fax this complete form with your payment to: Sandra Montealegre
Greater Houston Partnership
1200 Smith, Suite 700
Houston, Texas 77002–4400
Fax: 713-844-0262
Email: smontealegre@houston.org

o Complete Series – 2 sessions October 24 & 26
o Export Session October 24; oImport Session October 26

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