Trade Expo Focuses on Central America

Businesses interested in trade with Central America can network with companies and trade officials from south of the border as well as U.S. trade representatives at two events.

This Friday and Saturday the Central American Chambers of Commerce is hosting its Central American Trade Expo, catering to U.S. small businesses interested in trading with the region. Among the speakers: Salvadoran Vice President Carlos Quintanilla and the ambassador of El Salvador in Washington.

The event, to be held at the Westin Bonaventure, features trade officials from Panama and El Salvador and consular officials from Brazil and Argentina. It also features an exhibition floor, with U.S. and Central American companies.

Costs range from $10 for business access to the trade floor, to $30 for individuals, $45 for panels and $350 for a full package that includes opening and closing ceremonies.

Costs for booths are higher. U.S. business owners of Central American descent are eligible for financial assistance from several local organizations in securing a booth. For more information, call (213) 389-5025.

The event lost some of its steam and several speakers because of a conflict with a Central American conference and trade show organized by the World Trade Center Assn. The association’s Trade With the Americas conference will be held May 10 at the Wilshire Grand Hotel.

The conference will bring together trade officials from Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Panama, as well as U.S. trade representatives and corporate executives who will discuss opportunities in the region.

During the first six months of 1999, U.S. exports to Central America topped $6 billion, while imports exceeded $6.5 billion.

Costs are $125 for World Trade Center Assn. members, $145 for nonmembers and $75 for the luncheon alone.

For more information or to register, call (213) 680-1888.