State of Maine Trade Mission Paris, France
Oct. 2-6, 2010
With a GDP of approximately $2.5 trillion, France is the world’s sixth-largest economy. It has substantial agricultural resources, a large industrial base, and a highly skilled work force. There is strong trade and investment between the U.S. and France − over 1 billion dollars in commercial transactions take place between France and the U.S. every day, with the U.S. being France's sixth-ranked supplier and its sixth-largest customer.
- Maine’s exports to France topped $64 million in 2009; exports have increased 47.8% and 41.1% the past two years.
- France provides an excellent market for Maine’s travel and tourism, manufacturing, agricultural and service sectors.
- Opportunities for Maine Companies in French Energy Markets (PDF) - MITC research report, July 2010
- Customized One-on-One Business Appointments: Individual business appointments will be scheduled in France based on your company’s market objectives.
- In-Country Market Research: Industry Specialists will conduct market research on your industry and market needs.
- Pre-Mission Preparation: Meet with your in-country trade representative via teleconference to discuss in-depth your company’s objectives in France. Review current market research, gain an understanding of the foreign culture, learn what it takes to sign a contract, and develop a strategic plan for follow up with French business partners.
- Market Briefings: Take the opportunity to learn more about current economic and political conditions in France, as well as important cultural and social practices.
- State of Maine Reception & Networking Events: Business leaders, dignitaries and potential business partners will be invited to these functions. This is an excellent forum for strengthening relationships with your trading partners and trade associations.
Trade Mission package
The trade mission package includes ground transportation to and from Paris airport; accommodations at Hotel Regina in Paris; State of Maine receptions; pre-mission preparation seminar and teleconference; market briefings; business matchmaking services; and post-mission follow up. Download the Trade Mission informational sheet.
Airfare is not included; flight itineraries will be suggested.
Saturday, October 2
Departure from Maine - Travel Day
Sunday, October 3
Arrival in Paris - Check into Hotel; Acclimate
Monday, October 4
Paris - Group Briefing; Business Matchmaking
Tuesday, October 5
Paris - Business Matchmaking; State of Maine Food and Tourism Reception
Wednesday, October 6
Departure to Maine - Travel Day
For Companies Desiring Business Matchmaking Services:
$2,950 MITC Members*; $3,400 Non-members
Business Matchmaking registration form
Cost for Individuals Without Matchmaking Services:
$2,200 MITC Members*; $2,600 Non-members
Non-Matchmaking registration form
*To qualify for the membership discount, the participant must be a paid MITC member at time of registration.
Registration and Payment Deadline: For more information, contact Jeff Bennett at 207.990.3161 or jbennett@mitc.com.
A 50% refund on participation fee will be offered on cancellation requests received in writing up to July 30, 2010; thereafter, no refund will be given. MITC cannot be held responsible for any late or unexpected meeting changes, cancellations by international clients, or unforeseen circumstances. Programming is subject to change based on the needs of the delegation.
Included:
- Mission & Meetings coordination
- Networking events
- Business appointments
- State of Maine Receptions
- Hotel accommodations
Excluded:
- Airfare
- Meals – unless otherwise specified
- Airfreight of promotional materials
- Travel insurance
- Incidental expenditures (including interpreters; transportation to business meetings)
