Conferences & Events
International Trade Missions
September 8-12, 2008
Trade & Investment Mission to China
China International Trade & Investment Show
This mission will take place in Xiamen, site of one of the world’s most prestigious international investment expositions, the China International Trade & Investment Show, with a second stop in Hong Kong. China is rapidly rising on the world economic stage. The country’s economy is growing at over 10 percent per year, making it the fastest growing major economy in the world. China’s market has also become a significant source of business for U.S. companies, as the country is now the third largest importer of U.S. goods.
This trade and investment mission is open to exporting firms, local and state government officials, university and local economic development leaders. Customized meetings will be arranged for all groups.
Contact Gregory Guest for additional information.
November 6-14, 2008
Trade & Investment Mission to Israel
Israel has the most diversified economy of the Middle East, and is renowned for its high level of modernization and cutting edge research. The top sectors for doing business in Israel include: Agriculture, Automotive Aftermarket Parts and Equipment, Educational Services, Electronic Components, Energy, Homeland Security, Medical Instruments, Non-Prescription Drugs, Telecommunications Equipment, and Travel and Tourism Services. The U.S. currently remains Israel’s strongest trading partner.
With stops planned for Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, there will be ample opportunities for business appointments, government briefings on geo-political and military issues, meetings with local and state leaders, meetings with medical and technology leaders, visits to some of the world’s top medical and research facilities and more.
This trade and investment mission is open to exporting firms, local and state government officials, university and local economic development leaders. Customized meetings will be arranged for all groups.
Contact Clarke Thompson for additional information.
January 26-29, 2009
Trade & Investment Mission to the United Arab Emirates
UAE & Arab Health Fair 2009
This state-led mission to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will take place in Dubai. The United Arab Emirates is arguably the most stable country in the Middle East and has a highly industrialized economy that makes the country one of the most developed and fastest growing in the world. A massive construction boom, an expanding manufacturing base, and a thriving services sector are helping the UAE diversify its economy. Nationwide, there is currently $350 billion worth of active construction projects including the world's tallest building, the most expensive airport ever built and the largest shopping mall. Dubai was named as one of the world’s top 50 cities that are the hubs of the new worldwide economy. Dubai’s ranking positions the city as a leader in the Middle East, offering a strong business climate that supports further development.
In 2007, South Carolina exports to the UAE rose over 200 percent, making the UAE South Carolina's fifteenth largest export destination. Best prospect export sectors include: Aircraft and Parts, Oil and Gas Field Machinery and Services, Architecture, Construction and Engineering Services, Pollution Control Equipment, Medical, AC and Refrigeration Equipment, Safety and Security Equipment, Sporting and Recreational Equipment and Building Products.
This trade and investment mission is open to companies looking for export sales opportunities, local and state government officials, university and local economic development leaders. Customized meetings will be arranged for all groups.
Contact Gregory Guest for additional information.
February 23-27, 2008
Trade & Investment Mission to India
This state-led mission will include stops in New Delhi and Mumbai. India is one of the rising stars for South Carolina’s exports, with over a 29 percent increase in 2008. Leading markets in India for U.S. products are: Computers and Peripherals, Education Services, Electric Power and Transmission Equipment, Food Processing, Machine Tools, Medical Equipment, Mining and Mineral Processing Equipment, Pollution Control Equipment, Safety and Security, Telecommunications Equipment, Textile Machinery and Water.
This trade and investment mission is open to exporting firms, local and state government officials, university and local economic development leaders. Customized meetings will be arranged for all groups.
Contact Clarke Thompson for additional information.
April 20-24, 2009
Trade & Investment Mission to Ireland
This state-led mission is scheduled to visit Dublin and Cork in Ireland, and Belfast in Northern Ireland. Just 30 years ago, Ireland was a third-world economy. Today, Ireland is one of the world's wealthiest and most developed countries with an economy that has grown nearly five-fold since 1973. Ireland has the fifth highest gross domestic product per capita and is considered by many to have the highest quality of life in the world. It is also highly regarded for its educational and social systems.
South Carolina exports to Ireland increased seven percent last year, totaling nearly $54 million. Best export prospect sectors include: Household and Consumer Goods, Drugs, Pharmaceuticals and Medical Equipment, Building and Construction Products, Computer Software and Franchising.
This trade and investment mission is open to companies looking for export sales opportunities, local and state government officials, university and local economic development leaders. Customized meetings will be arranged for all groups.
Contact Gregory Guest for additional information.