MITC Trade Bulletin  
          The Maine International Trade Center's Electronic News Service - A Members Only Benefit 
              Thursday  September 11, 2003                                                                                                                                       

CONTENTS:

MITC PROGRAMS

MITC MEMBERSHIP BENEFIT

TRADE ALERTS

TRADE EVENTS

TRADE SHOWS

TRADE MISSIONS

PRESS RELEASES

USEFUL WEBSITES


MITC PROGRAMS

MITC MEMBERSHIP BENEFIT



MITC Members Receive 1-Year Subscription to Mainebiz!

TRADE ALERTS

Futurallia Trade Leads
Iraq Reconstruction

Task Force Launches Web Site

TRADE EVENTS

Information and Communications Technologies for Vietnam

Romanian E-Government Overseas Visit

China Shanghai Emergency Response Officials Overseas Visit

China Cable Television Industry Overseas Visit

Monthly China Biz Roundtable

IT Business Opportunities Reverse Mission to Miami

EU Privacy Workshop

Poland Emergency Management Overseas Visit

China Emergency 911 Communications System Overseas Visit


TRADE SHOWS

Agritec Israel 2003 September 15-18

SIAL Mercosul 2003, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, September 15-18

World PC EXPO 2003, September 17-20

IIDEX-NeoCon Canada

AMAZONTECH

Plovdiv International Technical Fair Catalog Show

Singapore: IX

Health Ingredients Japan 2003

Biotechnica Hannover Oct. 7 - 9, 2003

Anuga 2003

ITU TELECOM WORLD  Switzerland, Oct. 12-18

bioLOGIC USA 2003 

HostEx 2003, Toronto, October 19-21

Systems Trade Show,
Munich, Oct. 20-24  

PSC 2003

European Banking & Insurance Fair,  Oct. 24-27, Frankfurt

Grocery Innovations Canada

11th International Specialized Fair Moldagrotech

International Building & Construction Trade Fair

11th Annual Energy Trade and Technology Conference

MESDA Annual Conference

International Business Interface Conference, Ecuador, Nov. 17-18

Israfood 2003

International Biotech 2003, London UK

Madrid Call Center and CRM Solutions Fair

WASTEC

Construct Canada 2003

Assistance Technology and Augmentative Communication Conference

Turkey-Israel-Jordan Trade Days

2004 International CES

JETRO Techno Business Forum 2004

ExpoComm Mexico 2004

Christmasworld

Paperworld

Ambiente

Beautyworld


Lifetime

Passione

CAFTA Catalog Road Show

IFIA Japan 2004

r3 Asia 2004, July 6-9, 2004

All Asia Food Expo

TRADE MISSIONS

Governor Baldacci’s Trade  Mission to Ireland - Registration Now Closed

Estonian American Chamber of Commerce

Russian Energy Trade Mission

China Sales Mission and Technical Seminar Series

iNetwork128 China Trade Mission

U.S Department of Commerce Aerospace Trade Mission to Eastern Europe

New England-Latin America Business Council (NELABC)


PRESS RELEASES

Proposed U.S.-Dominican Republic FTA Negotiations

Proposed U.S.-Bahrain FTA Negotiations 

U.S. WTO Lumber Victory

Tariffs and Taxes on Computer Hardware and Software Imports

Brims Ness Moving to Millinocket

Renewable Resources Matching Fund

Program and Project Management Users Group

Bridging the Gender Gap for Girls and Women in Computing

Language Lessons Offered at Penobscot School

USEFUL WEBSITES

Translation Wizard

 

MITC PROGRAMS

MITC Staff are busy this month preparing for Governor Baldacci's First Trade Mission to Ireland and Northern Ireland on October 18-26 and putting the finishing touches - such as confirming speakers and dates - for our November and December educational seminars:  China:  Sourcing & Sales on November 13th in Portland; The Accidental Exporter on November 19th in Caribou; and Letters of Credit in December in Bangor.  We'll keep you posted on all of these exciting programs.

MITC MEMBERSHIP BENEFIT

Did you know that MITC Members receive 1-year subscription to Mainebiz?  Mainebiz is offering Members of the Maine International Trade Center a complimentary 1-year subscription to their publication. Get to know Maine’s business news source. To take advantage of this offer, follow the link to this form: http://www.mitc.com/PDF/MainebizCompForm.pdf  Fill out the information and return by fax or mail to Mainebiz: 30 Milk Street, 3rd Floor, Portland, Maine 04101 
Fax: (207) 761-0732

Trade Alerts

Futurallia Trade Leads:
Several companies approached MITC at Futurallia 2003 seeking partners in Maine. Three are listed below. For contact information for these companies, please contact Wade Merritt at MITC-Bangor, Tel: 990-3161 or merritt@mitc.com. The companies are as follows: Hawkley International, Ltd, a British manufacturer of portable vehicle weighing equipment. ExactSoft, Inc., a Quebec-based software developer offering a range of time tracking, human resource, and other employee management software solutions. Giannone Poultry Inc., a Quebec-based producer of air-chilled chicken.

IRAQ: Iraq Reconstruction Task Force Launches Web Site: On April 25, the Iraq Reconstruction Task Force officially launched its web site, www.export.gov/iraq. This site offers information about procurement opportunities, contract awards, and government agency information for Iraq.

Trade Events

Information and Communications Technologies for Vietnam  U.S. Trade and Development Agency Business Briefing, Friday, September 12 th.  Vietnamese officials representing the country's rapidly developing ICT industry will make presentations on upcoming project opportunities to a U.S. business audience. See: www.decisionevent.com

Romanian E-Government Overseas Visit, September 14-20, 2003. Nine Romanian government officials responsible for implementing Romania's e-Government Program will visit the United States to learn about leading U.S. technologies that can be applied in the area of e-Government. Contact Emma Ancrum info@computer-frontiers.com.

China Shanghai Emergency Response Officials Overseas Visit, September 15-25, 2003. Shanghai delegates involved in emergency response will visit the United States to meet with U.S. emergency response entities and learn about equipment and technology to upgrade the city's existing emergency response infrastructure. For more information: www.kealtd.com

China Cable Television Industry Overseas Visit, September 16-27, 2003.  China's State Administration of Radio, Film and Television, and Chinese provincial cable television network companies are seeking to upgrade existing cable systems with the newest technology. Contact Bernard Markowicz at: markowicz@decisionanalysis.net 

Monthly China Biz Roundtable - September 17th: a monthly roundtable to discuss China business issues. $20, with advance RSVP and payment, $30 at the door.  Free for iNetwork128 Associate and Enterprise members. For more information: www.iNetwork128.org or www.MeetChinaBiz.org

IT Business Opportunities Reverse Mission to Miami, FL, Sept. 17-18, 2003.  Visiting delegates from IT, Software, Consultancy and Logistics industries will be led by the Uruguayan President, Hon. Dr. Battle . Contact Minister Counselor Ricardo Nario or First Secretary Alejandro Garofali at the Department of Economic and Commercial Affairs, Embassy of Uruguay, Washington, DC: dec@uruwashi.org

EU Privacy Workshop, September 30th in Philadelphia, PA. Any organization that transfers or receives personally identifiable information across borders is encouraged to attend. For more information:  http://export.gov/infotech

Poland Emergency Management Overseas Visit, October 4-12, 2003.  Poland's Ministry of Interior has identified priority areas for technological and procedural improvements in emergency management, primarily in the IT sector, that are urgently needed by Poland. A business briefing will be held in Washington, DC on October 9th. Contact Stephanie Mattes via email: smattes@louisberger.com

China Emergency 911 Communications System Overseas Visit, Mid-October 2003.  The Chinese government plans to implement emergency response communications systems throughout China. 12 Chinese officials will visit the United States to learn about U.S. goods and technologies in the emergency communications systems industry. Contact Stephanie Mattes via email: smattes@louisberger.com


Trade Shows    

Agritec Israel 2003, September 15-18: Commercial and Agricultural Sections of Embassy, along with American States Offices Association, are jointly organizing "U.S. Products Catalog Show" at Israel's international exhibition for agricultural advanced equipment and R&D. See: http://www.buyusa.gov/israel/en/page103.html#section7 

SIAL Mercosul 2003, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, September 15-18, 2003, is the leading exhibition in the food industry in Latin America. For more information contact Ron Verdonk Tel: 011-5511-3082-3528 Fax: 011-5511-3083-7535 or Teresina Chin Tel: 202-720-9423 Fax: 202-690-4374.

World PC EXPO 2003, September 17-20 in Japan is the premier event for IT and digital products in Japan and the leading gateway for growing Asian IT markets.  For more information see: http://www.wpcexpo.com or contact Mari Felton-Beal at mari.felton@mail.doc.gov

IIDEX-NeoCon Canada (International Interior Design Exhibition), Toronto, Canada, September 18-19, 2003 Discuss international business possibilities with trade commissioners at the Export Café on the afternoon of September 17th. For more information: www.infoexport.gc.ca

AMAZONTECH, September 24-27, 2003, Manaus, Brazil. The trade show is a set of scientific and technological events with the purpose of promoting businesses and interchange of knowledge that does not affect the environment and that makes possible the self-sustainability of the Amazon Region. The AMAZONTECH is a set of events directed to the sustainable development of the entire Amazon. Each edition of the trade show is held in a different State. For more information see http://amazontech.am.sebrae.com.br or contact Mr. Jenner Luiz Pinheiro, Consultant at SEBRAE/AM, Jenner@am.sebrae.com.br.

Plovdiv International Technical Fair Catalog Show, Sept. 29-Oct. 4, 2003, Bulgaria. The Plovdiv International Technical fair is the biggest trade fair in Bulgaria with country wide exposure, which attracts thousands of across the industry visitors. Cost to U.S. exporters is $200. For more information, contact Reginald A. Miller, Senior Commercial Officer, Sofia, E-mail: reginald.miller@mail.doc.gov or Tsvetanka Kolarova, Commercial Specialist, Sofia E-mail: tsvetanka.kolarova@mail.doc.gov

Singapore: IX  Conference & Exhibition, Sept. 30-Oct. 3, 2003, Singapore Expo.  Technology Federation (SiTF). iX 2003 is one of the region's biggest IT and infocomm events examining the converging world of web services, wireless applications, bio-informatics, security and return on IT investment. Major firms such as Microsoft, IBM, HP, Sun Microsystem, Computer Associates, Cisco, and many others will be announcing and showcasing their products at iX. The conference features more than 60 world-class speakers from Europe, United States and Asia-Pacific. Cost for participation starts at $977. For further information see http://www.ix2003.com or contact David Stewart, iX 2003 Secretariat david.stewart@ix2003.com.

Health Ingredients Japan 2003, October 7-9, Tokyo Big Sight Exhibition Center, Tokyo, Japan.  U.S. exporters interested in entering Japan’s health, functional, and organic foods market.  Japan’s health foods market has an average growth of 8% over the past five years.  Japan’s rapidly aging population has caused an increased interest in foods that promote a healthier lifestyle.  The Japanese market for health foods is estimated at around $25 billion.  For more information visit http://www.fas.usda.gov/agexport/Whats%20Hot/IFIA%20JAPAN%202003.doc or contact Ms. Khaliaka Meardry: Khaliaka.Meardry@fas.usda.gov

Biotechnica Hannover, Oct. 7- 9, 2003, Hannover, Germany. Biotechnica Hannover features: medicine and pharmaceuticals, agriculture, nutrition, the environment, bioengineering, equipment and services. For more information please see, http://www.biotechnica.de

Anuga 2003, October 11-15, Cologne, Germany. In 2001, ANUGA attracted over 188,000 buyers from the trade, industry, skilled trades and catering. The trade visitors came from 147 countries. Some of the sectors expected to generate the most interest include organic foods, private label items, convenience foods, speciality/gournmet, kosher products, and vegetarian foods.  For further information visit http://193.99.40.28/auftritte/0250/html/00/index.htm or contact Sharon Cook Sharon.cook@fas.usda.gov  

ITU TELECOM WORLD Conference & Trade Show in Switzerland, October 12-18, 2003. The quadrennial ITU TELECOM WORLD (http://www.itu.int/WORLD2003 ) is the world’s premier event in telecommunications. TELECOM WORLD is an excellent opportunity for government, regulators and the telecommunications industry from around the world. For more information, please contact Carmela Mammas at carmela.mammas@mail.doc.gov.

bioLOGIC USA 2003, The Radisson Hotel, Boston October 15-16. For more information please see, http://www.pharma-rd.net/2003/biol_US  

HostEx 2003, Toronto Canada, October 19-21, 2003 . HostEx is Canada's largest hospitality trade show. For more information see: http://www.hostexshow.com.

Systems Trade Show, October 20-24, 2003, Munich, Germany. This IT trade show is an outstanding opportunity for international exhibitors to present themselves in first-rate European surroundings and make contacts at the highest possible business and/or decision-making level. For information on how the Department of Commerce can help U.S. firms participate in SYSTEMS please contact Doris Groot, Commercial Specialist, Munich, at doris.groot@mail.doc.gov 

PSC 2003, October 22-25, INTEX Shanghai, China, An international industrial event featuring a comprehensive showcase of products and technology. The exhibition will cover pumps, valves, piping, compressor systems, fluid power, Chemtec, Watertec, and Envirotec.  To obtain a listing of the different product and technologies that will be on display visit http://www.psc2003.com/exhibitors_highlights.htm .  For further information contact Janice Teo janiceteo@hglink.com

European Banking & Insurance Fair, October 24-27, 2003, Frankfurt, Germany . The European Banking & Insurance Fair is the leading European technology show for banks and financial institutions. For more information on how the U.S. Department of Commerce is helping U.S. firms participate in this fair, contact Elizabeth Powell, Commercial Specialist, Frankfurt, Tel: 49-69-956204-17, Elizabeth.Powell@mail.doc.gov.

Grocery Innovations Canada, October 26-28, Toronto, Canada,  One of Canada’s premier processed food events.  Canada is the largest global market for US processed food products.  The Canadian food market had been growing steadily for the past 10 years.  Cost of a turn key booth: $3,500. For more information contact Marilyn Bailey baileym@usdacanada.com   

11th International Specialized Fair Moldagrotech, October 28-November 1, 2003, Chisinau, Moldova.  The exhibition is for U.S. firms that supply agricultural machinery, water supply and irrigation system, processing and packaging equipment, food industry equipment, and fertilizers. BISNIS will hold a booth at the Moldagrotech Fair and show your catalogs at no cost. For more information visit http://www.moldexpo.md/ or contact Joan Morgan Joan_Morgan@ita.doc.gov

International Building & Construction Trade Fair US Pavilion, tentatively November, Shanghai, China, On of the leading construction industry trade shows in China, the IBCTF hosted 34,000 visitors in 2002 and featured 1,124 exhibitors.  Booth Space is sold out.  Catalog Space is available: $600.  For more information visit: http://216.239.33.104/search?q=cache:gmWU1ogUfSQJ:www.uschinabuild.org/Events/May2003TradeShow/tradeshowflyer03.06.03.pdf+International+Building+%26+Construction+Trade+Fair+&hl=en&ie=UTF-8

11th Annual Energy Trade and Technology Conference - North American Energy Supply Security, November 6-7, 2003 Questions abound about supply prospects, corporate fiscal health, power grid reliability, price volatility, and uncertain market growth, as well as the actual physical security of system. Contact Ellen Rota at ellenrota@aol.com

MESDA Annual Conference, November 13-14, DoubleTree Hotel, Portland, ME.  A large IT industrial conference dealing with security, storage, training, ebusiness, hardware, and software solutions.  Demonstrations of latest technology from the leading technologists, educational seminars and workshops, learn from industry leading keynotes, session and panel forums, network with peers and today’s industry leaders.  For further information visit http://www.mesda.com/ac2003/ or contact Joe Kumiszcza at joe@mesda.com

International Business Interface Conference, Ecuador, Nov. 17-18, 2003. The International Business Interface Conference in Ecuador is designed to promote and facilitate e-business, e-commerce, and global networking. For more information: http://web.ita.doc.gov/ITI/itiHome.nsf/3138ccc66b7f9be685256cc50067e178/be734fdad396e41b85256d8e006252b4!OpenDocument

Israfood 2003, November 24-26, 2003, Tel Aviv Fairgrounds, Israel.  This exhibition is for U.S. manufacturers and exporters interested in evaluating interest of their product in Israel and the surrounding region. The U.S. Commercial Service often receives requests from Israeli firms interested in U.S. exporters of processed food products and hotel/restaurant equipment.  A Commercial Specialist will display your catalog/product at their booth at the show and represent your stated interests.  After the show they will send you a complete list of potential partners and trade leads. Cost of participation: $400.  For further information see www.stier.co.il  or contact Alan Wielunski alan.wielunski@mail.doc.gov

International Biotech 2003, November 25-26, 2003, London. International Biotech 2003 covers all aspects of the biotechnology industry through a large exhibition, product demonstrations and interactive educational discussion areas covering the latest issues in the market. It is a one-stop shop for the biotechnology community and a perfect forum for trade, partnership and information exchange. Entrance to the exhibition and features is free of charge for all visitors. See: http://www.internationalbiotech.com

Madrid Call Center and CRM Solutions Fair, Spain, Nov. 25-27, 2003.   Within the Spanish market there is currently a demand for increased development in the area of value-added contact centers. For more information: http://www.ifaes.com/

WASTEC (Waste Control and Recycling Technology Exhibition) 2003, November 25-28, 2003, at the Nippon Convention Center (Makuhari Messe) International Exhibition Hall in Chiba City, Japan.  This exhibition will introduce the latest environmental-related products, technologies, and services developed in foreign companies.  Further information can be found at http://www.investinjapan.org/html/environmentjapan2003.htm or contact Mr. Akihiko Miyazato akihiko_miyazato@jetro.go.jp

Construct Canada 2003, Toronto, Canada, December 3-5, 2003.  Build business with trade commissioners and discover business opportunities in the building products and services industry at the Export Café. For more information: www.infoexport.gc.ca

Assistance Technology and Augmentative Communication Conference, December 5-8, 2003, Kyoto, Japan. The international trade show is part of the so-called "e-Japan" initiative of the Japanese government that is aimed to help provide IT infrastructure to everyone, regardless of geographic constraints, age or physical conditions. For more information on the conference see http://www.joho-kyoto.or.jp/KICH/ or contact Yasue Morimoto of the U.S. Department of Commerce/Tokyo yasue.morimoto@mail.doc.gov

Turkey-Israel-Jordan Trade Days, December 7-12, 2003.  A traveling trade show, which ventures to Turkey, Israel and Jordan.  This show is for manufacturing and agricultural clients interested in making connections and exporting to the Middle East region.  In addition, exporters can attempt to enter the Iraqi rebuilding process but the connections will need to be made through distributors in Jordan and Turkey. For further assistance contact Sherwin Pomerantz sherwin@atid-edi.com

2004 International CES, Las Vegas, NV, Jan. 8-11, 2004.  Attendees from more than 110 countries plus the United States, Canada and Mexico include manufacturers, retailers, content providers and creators, broadband developers, wireless carriers, cable and satellite TV providers, installers, engineers, corporate buyers, government leaders, financial analysts and the media from all around the world. For more information: www.cesweb.org

JETRO Techno Business Forum 2004, January 28-30, 2004, at the JETRO Akasaka Exhibition Hall & BSC Hall in Tokyo.  The exhibition is designed to help non-Japanese IT and BIO firms explore opportunities for business partnerships with Japanese firms, including technical tie-ups, sales alliances Visit http://www.jetro.go.jp/maa/e/techno/index.html or contact Hiroki Matsumoto at Hiroki_Matsumoto@jetro.go.jp for further information.

ExpoComm Mexico 2004, February 10-13, 2004: The U.S. Embassy in Mexico, the U.S. Department of Commerce, and E.J. Krause are pleased to announce the second USA Pavilion at EXPO COMM MEXICO 2004, Mexico’s leading telecom, IT, wireless, networking, and Internet technologies exhibition and conference. Participation in the USA Pavilion is limited to U.S. companies or their representatives and subject to approval by the U.S. Department of Commerce. For information contact Beth Horton, E.J. Krause at 301-493-5500 x3312, or Horton@ejkrause.com or see http://www.export.gov/infotech

Christmasworld, January 31-February 4, 2004, Frankfurt, Germany. Christmasworld features Christmas, holiday, and party items, floral items, fireworks, and shop and display products. For more information visit, www.christmasworld.messefrankfurt.com

Paperworld, January 31-February 4, 2004, Frankfurt, Germany. Paperworld is a trade fair specializing in paper, office supplies, writing instruments, school materials, stationery, computer accessories, and art and graphic supplies.

Ambiente, February 20-24, 2004, Frankfurt, Germany. Ambiente is a trade fair specializing in Tables and kitchenware, gifts, jewelry, and home furnishing. For more information visit, www.ambiente-frankfurt.de

Beautyworld, March 5-8, 2004, Frankfurt, Germany. Beautyworld is a trade fair specializing in cosmetics, perfumes, toiletries, and salon and healthcare products. For more information visit, www.beautyworld.messefrankfurt.com

Lifetime, March 5-8, 2004, Frankfurt Germany. Lifetime is a trade fair for the professional spa and wellness industry. For more information visit, www.lifetime-messe.de

Passione, March 5-8 2004, Frankfurt, Germany. Passione is an international trade fair for personal accessories including bags, jewelry, watches, smoking and wine accessories, small leather goods, and lingerie. For more information visit, http://passione.messefrankfurt.com

CAFTA Catalog Road Show, March 22-31, 2004.  The CAFTA (Central American Free Trade Agreement) is scheduled for completion at the end of this year.  The catalog show will visit the five CAFTA Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica.  In 2001 the United States exported $ 9 billion in goods to the five CAFTA countries.  78% of U.S. exporters to the region are small and medium-sized businesses, and such firms generate nearly half of U.S. export value to Central America.  For more information contact Nancy Hesser:  Nancy.Hesser@mail.doc.gov

IFIA Japan 2004, May 26-28, 2004, Tokyo, Japan, Asia’s largest food ingredients and addictives event.  Combining large collection of manufacturers, distributors with a showcase of the largest products and services for the industry.  For more information contact Kathy Giannetti giannetti@ejkrause.com . 

r3 Asia 2004, July 6-9, 2004 is an international showcase exhibition on used machinery and equipment. For more information contact Simon Ng at, r3salesteam@hglink.com or http://www.r3-asia.com

All Asia Food Expo, New York City, October 2004. All Asia Food Expo is a trade event featuring Asian food and beverage products organized by Diversified Business Communications, which is based in Portland, Maine. For more information, visit: www.divbusiness.com or contact Julie Bernier at jbernier@divcom.com

tRADE missions

Governor Baldacci’s Trade Mission to Ireland - Registration Now Closed  Recruiting for the 2003 State of Maine Trade Mission to Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland has come to a close with 57 participants on board for the October mission.  We have a record number of participants from Maine's business, higher education and economic development sectors who will be participating in customized matchmaking meetings and networking events to promote the development of Maine export opportunities and strategic international alliances.  Due to constraints in airline ticketing, space availability and in an effort to provide quality matches to all involved, we are closing registration for the mission at this time.  We look forward to working with Maine's delegation and a successful Trade Mission.  Questions regarding the Trade Mission should be directed to Dana Eidsness at 541-7474 or eidsness@mitc.com

Estonian American Chamber of Commerce, September 16-21, 2003, New York.  Estonian companies including: automotive parts, pharmaceutical distributors, steel structure construction and vodka, peat, clothes and furniture producers, amongst others, are visiting the US in hopes of creating US contacts and possible alliances.  For further company information visit http://www.estonianamericanchamberofcommerce.com/ or contact Krista Altok Tassa katassa@pipeline.com

Russian Energy Trade Mission, September 21-25, 2003, Moscow and St. Petersburg, Russia.  The trade mission delegation of business leaders, sponsored by the DOC, will travel to St. Petersburg and Moscow, where mission participants will focus on developing new partnerships with Russian energy companies.  Mission participants will also be involved in the US Russia Commercial Energy Summit in St. Petersburg.  Fast-growing demand for Russian oil and gas resources has created opportunities for U.S. firms in the rehabilitation of existing oil fields and development of new exploration projects, and for suppliers of related equipment and services. Further information visit http://www.osec.doc.gov/obl/russiamission2003/  or contact the Office of Business Liaison 202-482-4054

China Sales Mission and Technical Seminar Series, September 22-26, 2003, China. This mission to China’s leading housing markets and enables US firms to meet Chinese companies and display products. The cost is $650 for Evergreen Building Products Association members and $750 for non-members. For more information visit www.uschinabuild.org/Events/events.htm or contact Rose Braden rbraden@uschindabuild.org

iNetwork128 is sending its fourth SME trade mission to China Oct. 24 through Nov. 7, 2003.  Leg A covers a wide region in Northern China Leg B focuses on matchmaking between our SME delegates and their Chinese counterparts from all over the country. For more information, send email to info@iNetwork128.org or www.MeetChinaBiz.org

U.S Department of Commerce Aerospace Trade Mission to Eastern Europe, November 2-7 2003. The mission will focus on aircraft products and services, but will also be open to firms offering solutions to airport infrastructure needs, such as airport security. The participation fee is $3,500. See: www.ita.doc.gov/td/aerospace

New England-Latin America Business Council (NELABC):  Brazil-US Business Connection Trade Mission to São Paulo - November 3 to 7, 2003 Manufactures, service providers, franchisers, and software companies that are entering or expanding operations in Brazil are welcome. The mission will focus on private sector, practical solutions to operations in Brazil. See: www.nelabc.org/trade_mission


Press Releases  

Request for Comments, Notice of Public Hearing on Proposed U.S.-Dominican Republic FTA Negotiations - Trade Policy Staff Committee (TPSC) notes that it will convene a public hearing and seek public comment to provide USTR advice on how specific goods and services and other matters should be treated under an agreement resulting from the proposed U.S. - Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations. See: http://www.tcc.mac.doc.gov/cgi-bin/doit.cgi?204:52:795076046:807

Request for Comments, Notice of Public Hearing on Proposed U.S.-Bahrain FTA Negotiations - Trade Policy Staff Committee (TPSC) notes that it will convene a public hearing and seek public comment to assist (USTR) in amplifying and clarifying negotiating objectives for the proposed U.S. - Bahrain Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and to provide advice on how specific goods and services and other matters should be treated under the proposed agreement. See: http://www.tcc.mac.doc.gov/cgi-bin/doit.cgi?204:52:252796909:824

USTR Statement on U.S. WTO Lumber Victory - A WTO panel has again upheld key aspects of U.S. actions in the ongoing softwood lumber dispute with Canada. See: http://www.tcc.mac.doc.gov/cgi-bin/doit.cgi?204:52:252796909:828

Tariffs and Taxes on Computer Hardware and Software Imports - The U.S. Department of Commerce has recently compiled information on all foreign countries' tariffs and taxes applied on computer hardware and software imports. These rates are applicable to U.S. firms. See: http://web.ita.doc.gov/ITI/itiHome.nsf/9b2cb14bda00318585256cc40068ca69/85e97beb145b069585256d82005db175!OpenDocument

Brims Ness Moving to Millinocket - Brims Ness Corp. (BNC), developers of innovative sensor technologies for detecting fluid-borne contaminants, will be graduating from CEE’s business incubation program and relocating most of its operations to Millinocket, ME.  www.brimness.com

Renewable Resources Matching Fund - MTI is pleased to announce this new matching fund program for projects that enhance or support the energy sector through research and development or community demonstration projects using renewable resources. See: http://www.mainetechnology.org/proposal.asp.

Program and Project Management Users Group - September 16, 2003, South Portland, ME.  IT project portfolio management dedicated to recognizing when and when not to allocate project resources.  This month’s speaker is Juergen Renger of J. Renger Associates.  For further information, visit http://www.mesda.com/ac2003/ or contact Joe Kumiszcza joe@mesda.com.

Bridging the Gender Gap for Girls and Women in Computing - Friday, October, 2003.  Registration starts at 8:00 a.m. "Unlocking the Clubhouse: Bridging the Gender Gap for Girls and Women in Computing" at the Sable Oakes Marriott in South Portland, ME.  For more information: www.mainelygirls.org

Language Lessons Offered at Penobscot School - Now in its 17th year, Penobscot School begins the 2003 fall semester on Monday, September 22. The school offers lessons in French, German, Italian, Japanese, Russian, Spanish, and Swedish.  For more information about the fall semester, to receive a schedule of courses or to register for classes, please call Penobscot School, 594-1084.

USEFUL WEBSITES

Translation Wizard: Struggling to find the right word in another language?  Just type words in the translation box, select the applicable languages and the Translation Wizard will translate for you. The Wizard can handle a wide variety of languages and will even identify a language for you, if you have a document or Web site that's written in a language you don't know. Visit the website try it out: http://www.faganfinder.com/translate


MITC Trade Bulletin is published biweekly by the Maine International Trade Center as a members only benefit.  For information about MITC membership,please contact our office.

Portland
: Phone (207) 541-7400, Facsimile (207) 541-7420