For the second year in a row, the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at The College of New Jersey is partnering with the Mercer County Office of Economic Development to present International Trade Week.
The series of free webinars led by industry experts and continuing through Friday, November 15, is designed for those considering launching a global business or for businesses already engaged in international trade. For more information or to register for individual webinars, visit www.sbdcnj.org or call 609-771-2947.
“Economic Relations Between Mexico, the United States, and New Jersey: Key Industries and Trade Dynamics” is presented by Mariana Diaz, head consul of the Consulate of Mexico in New Brunswick. The webinar is presented on Wednesday, November 13, in English at 10 a.m. and in Spanish at 11 a.m.
The webinar will “explore the critical economic ties and trade relationships that shape the business landscape across these regions,” according to SBDC materials. “This event will delve into key industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, energy, and technology, and examine how trade policies, supply chain networks, and cross-border collaborations influence economic growth and opportunities.
“Experts will provide an in-depth analysis of the current trade dynamics, investment flows, and future trends impacting businesses in Mexico, the U.S., and specifically New Jersey. Attendees will gain valuable insights on how to navigate and leverage these economic relationships to enhance business strategies and foster international partnerships.”
Diaz has served in her current role in New Brunswick for two years. She has been a member of the Mexican foreign service since 1999 and holds a master’s degree in international relations from Cambridge University.
“Finding Global Opportunities: Market Finder” also takes place on November 13, in English at 4 p.m. and in Spanish at 5 p.m. Attendees will learn how to use the Google Market Finder tool “to identify new market opportunities, gain valuable operational insights, and start reaching customers worldwide.”
Based on the premise that, in the age of the internet, customers are driven by the quality of a business’ product rather than by the location of the business, the Market Finder tool is designed to assist businesses in all aspects of global expansion. First, it helps businesses identify target markets based on search data, market trends, and per capita income; then by helping businesses tailor their operations and marketing strategy to fit the markets they’ve targeted.
The final webinar, “Foreign Trade Zone & Mercer County,” takes place Friday, November 15, from 10 to 11 a.m. The event explores the advantages of the Mercer County Foreign Trade Zone, in which foreign and domestic goods are not subject to the usual formal Customs and Border Patrol entry procedures and duties. For businesses operating within the FTZ, this can translate to reduced costs and increase profit margins on imported goods.
