Pennsylvania DCED to Help Companies Pursue Trade Opportunities, Rebuild Chile

HARRISBURG, Pa., May 17 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Pennsylvania companies can help Chile rebuild from its devastating February earthquake and find new markets during a conference next month in Santiago, the Department of Community and Economic Development said today.

Pennsylvania companies do not have to attend Rebuild Chile Expo 2010 on June 15-17; but the conference is providing them with another opportunity to partner with the commonwealth's authorized trade representatives, and to send marketing materials to the country.

Pennsylvania's trade reps in Chile will conduct one-on-one appointments on behalf of participants based on specific needs and requirements of the companies and country.

"Participation can provide Pennsylvania businesses with a very affordable way to find new and profitable markets for their products and services while helping the people of Chile recover from February's disastrous earthquake and tsunami," said DCED Deputy Secretary for International Business Development Wilfred Muskens. "This is a cost-effective way to explore opportunities in the Chilean marketplace without committing to the time and expense of travel."

Equipment, materials, and services identified by Chilean officials as priorities in the recovery include building products and construction equipment; telecommunications systems; energy generation and delivery products; sanitation, utilities repair and replacement; and other equipment and materials. In addition, companies offering specialized services such as municipal planning, infrastructure needs assessment, financial modeling, and engineering and architectural services are encouraged to participate.

The Department of Community and Economic Development is working with the Philadelphia-based Consulate General of Chile and Chilean-American Chamber of Commerce to encourage companies to participate.

Pennsylvania's authorized trade representative in Chile will present participating companies to Chilean government and private sector decision-makers, including face-to-face meetings, product and marketing displays, and other information from Pennsylvania suppliers who are offering solutions.  

Chile is Pennsylvania's 29th largest export market and, in 2009, the value of Pennsylvania exports to Chile reached $155 million.

The registration deadline for Rebuild Chile Expo 2010 is June 1, and the participation fee is $500. Space is limited. Discounts have been negotiated with show organizers for companies that wish to exhibit on their own.  

Opportunities for financial assistance from DCED to help offset the cost of this Expo may be available to qualifying companies. For more information, contact [email protected] or call 717-214-5306.

Media contact:

Steve Weitzman, DCED; 717-783-1132

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development