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The third large wave of Colombian exporters to the United States since the start of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in 2012 will take place through the Business Matchmaking Forum on May 14 and 15, reported PROCOLOMBIA president Maria Claudia Lacouture.
According to Lacouture, 280 American and Caribbean buyers, and 500 Colombian exporters are expected to participate. They must register before April 25. (www.macrorruedasproexport.com/miami2013)
" Progress that has been made since signing the FTA, as well as the great range of opportunities that the market offers Colombian entrepreneurs, motivated this third business matchmaking forum," explained PROCOLOMBIA president Maria Claudia Lacouture. She indicated that, from May to December 2012, a total of 635 companies exported to the United States for the first time, and 131 Colombian products were sold which had previously never entered the U.S.
In 2012, PROCOLOMBIA held business matchmaking forums in New York and Los Angeles, in which a total of 940 exporters and 630 buyers attended.
In Miami, PROCOLOMBIA aims to showcase Colombian products in which it has identified potential. For example, in the food category the invitation was extended to companies in the following sectors: aquaculture and fishery, fruits, vegetables and greens, fats and oils, sugars, honeys and sweeteners, beverages, confectionery, cocoa and coffee products, dairy products, various food preparations, bread and grain mill products, and snacks.
Manufacturers will offer supply items, cosmetics, construction materials, furniture, wood, packing and packaging. In the apparel category, export companies of the following will be present: footwear, jeans wear, shapewear, sportswear, underwear and outerwear, swimwear and leather manufacturing.
Healthcare institutions will participate in the services category to show the advantages of visiting Colombia to have procedures related to the following done: cardiology, oncology, limb replacement ophthalmology, neurosurgery and odontology, assisted reproduction, medical check-ups, treatment for obesity and bariatric surgery.
Government Procurement Seminar
A day before the forum, on Monday, May 13, PROCOLOMBIA will give a seminar to all exporters interested in government procurement in Miami-Dade County. The county handles around 1,300 contracts totaling around US$5 billion.
The seminar will be led by five experts in the field and aims to show participants the potential to do business with the county, given that it is constantly looking for new providers to utilize the approximately US$900 million that it sets aside for contracts annually.
Participants will learn about how to do business with the United States, regulations that apply in the market, logistical aspects, and business opportunities in the country, as well as current opportunities in Florida.
To register enter www.macrorruedasproexport.com/miami2013
