WORLD TRADE CENTER San Diego Event Blog

9/11 Commemoration at the Port Pavilion on Broadway Pier

Marcia Bradley — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 18:06:41 GMT

(Click 'Read More' below for photos of the event)

WORLD TRADE CENTER San Diego, in partnership with the Port of San Diego, hosted a 9/11 Commemoration event on Thursday, September 8, 2011 at the Port Pavilion on Broadway Pier. The theme was peace, prosperity, and diversity through trade. The free public event took place from 2:00-7:00pm and featured various international business displays, first responder vehicles, and a symbolic Commemoration Walk to honor those lost and affected by the tragedy.

The public enjoyed a performance by the San Diego Master Chorale who opened the ceremony, followed by VIP Speakers that included WTCSD President / CEO, Bella Heule; San Diego County Supervisor Ron Roberts; Port Commissioner Bob Nelson; San Diego Airport Board Chair Robert Gleason; and Mark Ballam, Director, San Diego State University CIBER, who was presented the Essence of World Trade Award.

Two beautiful guitars, donated by Taylor Guitars, were given to winners of the opportunity drawing.

Halfway through the event, San Diego County was crippled by a power outage that affected a three-state area. But WTCSD powered through with an energetic and exciting performance by the renowned group, Jefferson Starship.

WTCSD President / CEO Bella Heule Jefferson Starship Performs

USBP Honor Guard on Commemoration Walk County Supervisor Ron Roberts leads walkers
(3rd from left)

Chris Graham, Ross Lopez, Essence Award recipient San Diego Master Chorale
Mark Ballam, Robert Gleason, Bob Nelson

Crowd enjoying the speakers and the concert!

Greening Ports in China

Programs WTCSD — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 21:44:20 GMT

18 delegates from Binzhou, China visited WTCSD on August 11, 2011. As an economy on the rise, the delegates of Binzhou were interested in how to build a sustainable marine economy and the environmental protections necessary for the Bohai Bay.

Miguel Reyes, Senior Maritime Trade Account Manager, and Michelle White, Senior Environmental Specialist of the Unified Port of San Diego, gave an overview of the Port, including possible import and export opportunities, as well as information about the environmental programs in San Diego and how they are applied by the Port and the community.

Following the Port presentation, the delegation learned about the capabilities of the World Trade Centers Association.

Binzhou is located in the northern Shandong Province; north-west of Shanghai and south-east of Beijing.

Meishan Island Presentation

Marcia Bradley — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 18:36:25 GMT

Room for Growth in the Chinese Health Industry

Wednesday, June 29, 2011 by WTCSD Staff Writer, Mark Ehredt

WTCSD International Relations Office hosted the Meishan Island Investment & Development Delegation with more than 40 in attendance. A Chinese lunch was served and David Graham, a representative of the Mayor’s office, David Graham welcomed WTCSD members, potential investors, and representatives of the Meishan Free Trade Port Zone to San Diego and the WTCSD. The Meishan Island Presentation was given by Mr. Jingguo Shi, the project leader, who pointed out important facts about the current and future development of Meishan Island such as its almost 8 square kilometers of unique land development advantages and high investment values. Mr. Ding Yu of Ningbo Health Group gave the final presentation, explaining the potential growth possibilities within China. For example, Mr. Yu stated the United States health industry is more than 10% of GDP, whereas China’s health industry is just over 4% leaving plenty of room for growth by comparison. The guests lingered for more than an hour after the event was scheduled to end and many new relationships were begun.

News from the Global Supply Chain Management Symposium

Marcia Bradley — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 16:40:36 GMT

“The Proverbial Widget Has Changed.”

Friday May, 6 2011 by WTCSD Staff Writer, Crystal Harris

WORLD TRADE CENTER San Diego hosted industry leaders to discuss one of the most important issues facing companies today: What does being “green” mean and how can it help a company sustain a competitive advantage? The symposium not only provided insight to companies on how they could move towards a greener future, but also discussed government and industry initiatives related to carbon footprint accounting and reporting.

Dr. Simon Croom, Professor and Executive Director, Supply Chain Institute of the University of San Diego, gave opening remarks at the symposium and introduced Douglas Sander, Partner, Baker & McKenzie LLP, who covered the international aspects of green supply chain. How does a supply chain go green if it is linked to companies in countries all over the world? Sanders stated, “The proverbial widget has changed.” Matt Clouse, Director of Renewable Energy Policy & Programs, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, discussed U.S. policies and government initiatives, the GHG Reporting Program, and voluntary programs such as Climate Leaders.

The keynote speaker for the day was Cathy Rodgers, Vice President of Global Opportunities & Business Development for IBM Global Services, who talked about the importance of a green supply chain not only for the current industries, but also for future generations who will receive the benefits from a changing supply chain. Rodgers said, “Change is not about what we do, but rather everything we don’t that makes a difference.”

To read more about the symposium and the speakers, please see:
Global Supply Chain Symposium Article by Crystal Harris.pdf

Korea interested in IT?

Programs WTCSD — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 10:59:52 GMT

Last night IRO representatives greeted eleven delegates from the Korean National Assembly as they arrived in San Diego. The group will be hosted by Qualcomm for three days, where they will be attending an IT policy conference focused on enhancement of their understanding of business models, technology and products.

Turkey Delegation Tours with Customs and Border Protection

Nancy Nicholson — Tue, 01 Mar 2011 11:19:47 GMT

IRO escorted the Consul General and Vice Consul of Turkey to the gate at the San Diego International Airport to greet the State Minister of Turkey and a delegation of 11 members. The delegation was most interested in touring the California/Mexico border to learn how Customs and Border Protection procedures are conducted and what new plans are in the works. The IRO facilitated arrangements for the State Minister’s first visit to the city of San Diego.

Please click on the Facebook link below to see the photos taken at the airport.

http://www.facebook.com/?ref=logo#!/pages/World-Trade-Center-San-Diego/151127081568534

By: Yelena Zaozernaya

Korean University Delegation

Marcia Bradley — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 14:23:57 GMT

A group of ambitious MBA students from Ajou University in Seoul, South Korea, visited WTCSD to familiarize themselves with the organization. Our new Korean speaking intern, Justin Lee, gave an overview of what WTCSD does, introduced its main functions and spoke about the extensive internship program. There was strong interest in learning how the organization is funded, how WTC differ from country to country or from city to city as far as the WTC ownership, license and service fees are concerned. Students were surprised to learn that all WTCs are not uniform around the world and provide a whole range of services. We thank them for their interest in our organization and look forward to greeting future businessleaders!

By Anna Filippova

Austrian Consulate

Nancy Nicholson — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 13:34:20 GMT

On Thursday, January 13^th the Los Angeles Austrian Consul General, Karin Proidl and Trade Commissioner, Rudolf Thaler visited WTC offices. The Austrian consulate’s focus is IT communication, aerospace and aviation industries, and solar energy. The WTC looks forward to working with the Austrian Consulate and furthering European trade.

Shenzehn Delegation

Nancy Nicholson — Thu, 13 Jan 2011 10:19:14 GMT

On Thursday, January 6^th a delegation from the coastal city of Shenzhen visited WTCSD to discuss budding industry within the technology sector. The four delegates from Shenzhen represented the LED Association and discussion was centered around expanding their LED industry to North America and parts of Mexico. The main topic of discussion was deciphering whether an investment in North America would be feasible. LED is a lucrative industry in Shenzhen with 1,000 companies and a total output of $7 billion. Their goal by 2015 is to have a total output of $30 billion. Shenzhen’s goal seems well within reach due to its economic success in recent years. In 1980, Shenzhen was designated as a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) and was the first SEZ to accept foreign investment. The city also boasts one of the highest minimum wages in China, and has the country’s largest per capita GDP at $13,581(2009).To view pictures of discussion go to http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/World-Trade-Center-San-Diego/151127081568534. For more information regarding Shenzehn’s LED industry, visit www.szledia.org.

By Sabrina Sands

Cross Cultural Business Communication Workshop: Germany

Marcia Bradley — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 13:30:04 GMT

Cross Cultural Business Communications: Germany

11/4/10

Today at the WORLD TRADE CENTER San Diego, we continued our series Cross Cultural Business Communications, with a presentation on doing business in Germany accompanied by a traditional German-style breakfast.

We were joined by guest speakers, Dr. Stephan F. Hollmann, Honorary Consul of Germany and Ms. Peggy Fleming, Executive Director German American Chamber of Commerce. Natives of Germany, now living and working in the San Diego business region, both came to the WTCSD to discuss business trends in Germany and the many cultural differences that may impact international business between American and German firms.

Germany today is a far different country than that of even just twenty years
ago. Germany ranks as the largest European economy, 5^th largest global economy, with its GDP accounting for over 3.6 trillion (USD). Our speakers today brought valuable information to our attendees, both those currently doing business in Germany, and those here interested in expanding internationally into the German market.

Some of the most important information given to us today is the importance of forming a relationship with your German business partners. To your German counterparts, it is important to them that they form a trusting relationship with you, get to know who you are, and yes, socialize with you. Without trust and a reassurance of a strong relationship, a German firm is likely to shy away from a deal. Take the time, whether it is by phone, e-mail, meetings, or a business trip to Germany, to get to know your German business partners.

Germany has a long standing history that values strong education and the importance of financial stability. The German government, like its citizens, is also very financially conservative. Doing business in Germany requires American firms to go far above just ‘deal making’, instead taking the time to provide not just the building of a relationship as mentioned before, but knowing the ins and outs of your product or service, and proving your product’s stability and success potential in Germany.

For those interested in beginning research on business in Germany, there are many resources here in San Diego, as well as abroad in Germany. The first great resource to San Diego businesses is the German American Chamber of Commerce. This international chamber of commerce can connect you to all the resources and information that will help begin an international venture. Also, each of the 16 states in Germany have their own Chamber of Commerce, all of which are open and interested in doing business with The United States. In the recent decade, German firms have shown a great deal of interest in business in The States as opposed to their efforts in China. Listed below is a great link to help you start your research.

We would like to thank both Ms. Fleming and Dr. Hollman for coming to speak here at the WTCSD, and to our sponsors: Quantum Design, WD-40, COMMIT, and The San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Our Speakers:

Dr. Hollmann is an Aerospace Executive and Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany in Southern California. Dr. Hollmann holds an engineering degree from the University Bremen, Germany and a doctorate from California Southern University.

Ms. Fleming has both an American and German Master’s degree in Business Administration. She has worked as a consultant, instructor, and entrepreneur in the U.S. and Germany. Ms. Fleming is the President of the German American Chamber of Commerce California, based here in San Diego, where she leads the Chamber’s Transatlantic Business Program and International Career Program.

German American Chamber of Commerce: http://www.gaccca.com/

Matt Confer
Marketing & Programs Intern
WORLD TRADE CENTER San Diego

High-ranking Chinese government delegates visit San Diego to learn about city redevelopment, government and the Port

Nancy Nicholson — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 12:09:57 GMT

Six high-ranking government delegates from Yancheng, Jiangsu, China were welcomed by DDH Enterprise, Inc. and the International Relations Office as they stepped off the airplane at San Diego International Airport. Meetings were scheduled at Centre City Development Corporation and WORLD TRADE CENTER San Diego facilities on the first day of their stay in the region. The delegation was interested in understanding about San Diego city redevelopment, government and the Port.

A tour of the 10^th Avenue Terminal was an essential part of the visit and the group learned about Port operations. The delegation then traveled to meet with newly re-elected Supervisor Ron Roberts. They were hosted at Supervisor Roberts’ offices where they learned about San Diego County and discussed the many interesting aspects of the friendship city Yancheng.

The delegates were hosted by Danny Du and Shane Chang of DDH Enterprise, Inc. for a dinner at China Max Tuesday evening. Wednesday, after visiting the Port and Supervisor Roberts, they were taken on a company tour of DDH Enterprise, Inc. facilities in Vista.

To view more pictures, join us on Facebook!

Singapore companies meet with WTCSD to prepare for expansion in the San Diego region

Nancy Nicholson — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 19:19:53 GMT

With a goal to prepare the expansion of their companies in the San Diego region, 11 delegates from Singapore met with Scott Wang, Asia Desk Director of WTCSD. The request for the meeting was received from International Enterprise Singapore, the lead agency under the Ministry of Trade and Industry tasked to develop Singapore's external economy.

In an informative roundtable session, Mr. Wang introduced the WTCSD and delegates addressed topics of interests such as their company profile, joint venture partnerships and product/service consumers.

The group came to Southern California to gather information for a market study from industry and trade associations as well as relevant government organizations.

By Franziska Poppe

International Relations Office Update and Forecast

Nancy Nicholson — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 10:08:49 GMT

The International Relations Office by WORLD TRADE CENTER San Diego held their first forecast and update meeting hosted at Qualcomm, October 27^th, 2010.

Nancy Nicholson, Manager of the International Relations Office, presented to sponsors/supporters inbound international delegation statistics and trends. The newly created office, launched in March 2010, has facilitated 42 delegation visits composed of 240 delegates from 34 countries.

Mayor Sanders participated in the meeting giving his support to the IRO for their direct help with international delegation inquiries to the City. Sponsors and supporters added strong testimonials to include gained business opportunities through IRO services.

By Yelena Zaozernaya

Kenya: Geothermal Energy Reverse Trade Mission

Nancy Nicholson — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 12:06:57 GMT

On a 3 day mission to learn about new technologies and opportunities in geothermal energy, 23 Kenyan delegates visited the Imperial Valley geothermal facilities. In a full day of meetings and tours the Kenyans heard about renewable energy sources in the region.

The main energy source in Kenya is biomass (approximately 68%), while most of its electricity is hydro based. Kenya is continuously looking to develop its energy resources including geothermal, petroleum, coal, and nuclear resources which are of geological nature; and also solar, wind, bio-fuels.

The International Relations Office by WTCSD enjoyed facilitating the group’s airport entry/exit through San Diego International Airport, providing a customized itinerary and recommending local dining options.

Organizations represented:

Ministry of Energy, Kenya

GEOTHERMAL DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, LTD.

KENYA POWER AND LIGHTING COMPANY, LTD.

KENYA ELECTRICITY TRANSMISSION COMPANY

ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, KENYA

KENYA ELECTRICITY GENERATING COMPANY

GEOSTEAM SERVICES, LTD.

U.S. EMBASSY, KENYA

By Franziska Poppe

Henan, China: Provincial Government Public Administration Delegation

Nancy Nicholson — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 14:50:39 GMT

Today, 22 government officials from China joined a tailor-made roundtable meeting, organized by the International Relations Office, at WTCSD facilities. The Chinese delegates scheduled a special visit to San Diego to learn best practices from San Diego organizations. Information on structure, administration and efficiency improvement as well as economic development were among the topics addressed.

The group was referred by the US China Exchange Council (USCEC), a non-profit organization registered in the State of California that is fostering professional exchange programs for public benefits between the United States and the People's Republic of China.

Featured speakers and topics

Jo Marie Diamond, Interim President and CEO,
East County Economic Development Council

Christina Anne Luhn, Ph.D.; Director, Mega-Region Initiative,

San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation

Stephanie Jungersen, Vice President of Operations, San Diego

North Economic Development Council

Ron Roberts, San Diego County Supervisor

Frank Alessi, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer and

Derek Danziger, Vice President of Marketing and Communications, Centre City Development Corporation

Sheridan Barker, Program Chair, Association for Strategic Planning,

Principal, Practice Leader for Education at Haines Centre for Strategic

Management

By Franziska Poppe

Supervisor Ron Roberts and Shisheng Peng, Director, Henan Provincial
Government Education Service Center

Mayor Moon, of Gunsan City, Korea, visits San Diego!

Nancy Nicholson — Sun, 10 Oct 2010 23:09:57 GMT

Mayor Moon, accompanied by six government delegates from Gunsan City, visited San Diego with a goal of learning about our Port and sea life conservation at SeaWorld. The delegation was given a VIP, behind the scenes tour, of the dolphin training tanks, sea turtle hatchlings, Humboldt penguins and rescued sea lion.

Jim Hutzelman and Miguel Reyes, Unified Port of San Diego, presented the delegation with an overview of tourism on the waterfront and the workings of the 10^th Ave Terminal.

To view pictures, please visit our FaceBook page!

German Delegation Visits San Diego and the CCSE

Marcia Bradley — Fri, 15 Oct 2010 18:41:41 GMT

The Mayor of Wurzen, accompanied by media and government delegates, learned how to implement and facilitate sustainable energy programs from the California Center for Sustainable Energy (CCSE). A tour and presentation by CCSE Engineer and Programs Administrators gave the delegation an overview of energy technologies and practices.

Water Technology Projects in the Middle East, North Africa & India

Programs WTCSD — Wed, 29 Sep 2010 14:37:16 GMT

On September 29, 2010, WORLD TRADE CENTER San Diego (WTCSD) hosted Nicole Y. Lamb-Hale, Assistant Secretary for Manufacturing and Services, U.S. Department of Commerce, International Trade Administration, who announced the award of a MDCP grant to WTCSD. Out of 50 applicants around the US, only 5 were awarded and WTCSD was one of the winners. The grant is intended to stimulate US exports surrounding water technologies as part of President Obama’s plan to double US exports over the next 5 years. WTCSD is now a guide for companies to turn to for exporting water technologies.

Part of the WTCSD plan is to work with local and national companies to help them leverage their services as exporters and match them with foreign markets. The overall plan is to ensure US companies are streaming into growing foreign markets.

CITP Office of International Affairs Meeting

Programs WTCSD — Sat, 11 Sep 2010 01:54:23 GMT

On August 31st, representatives from the California International Trade Partnership (CITP) gathered with local WTCSD members for lunch, networking and a meeting on California trade topics. A big shout to the team at the San Diego Country Regional Airport Authority for their warm welcome, sponsorship and for the use of their conference facilities at the San Diego International Airport Commuter Terminal. The event brought San Diego small and medium-sized businesses together to discuss current trade issues. the keynote speaker was the Honorable Bijan Kian from U.S. Export Import Bank who discussed current events, loan increases, and the effect on new jobs in the U.S.. Deputy Director Robert Tse, GoED International Affairs, gave a presentation on worldwide trade issues and opportunities followed by a discussion on international trade show opportunities from Jeff Williamson, Statewide Director from CITD. Attendees included San Diego County Supervisor Ron Roberts, Steve Austin, Partner Swenson/Integra, WTCSD Chairman Dave Schultz, WTCSD President/CEO Bella Heule, visiting members of an international delegation from Bogota, Columbia, local WTCSD members and CITP guests.

To view more pictures please visit our new Facebook page!

WTCSD Member Appreciation Mixer at D&K Engineering

Nancy Nicholson — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 08:51:34 GMT

Almost 150 of San Diego’s business and community leaders gathered on the manufacturing floor of D&K Engineering’s office building http://www.dkengineering.com to escape the August heat and enjoy each others company for The WORLD TRADE CENTER San Diego’s WTCSD Membership Mixer. Attendees enjoyed delicious food and drinks while listening to an informative presentation by D&K Engineering’s President, Alex Kunczynski, followed by a member appreciation gift raffle directed by Andy Kotner of WTCSD. Lucky raffle winners walked away with prizes ranging from a Zune MP3 Player to overnight stays at the Bristol Hotel and the Sheraton Mission Valley to a Callaway Golf putter and other goodies.

Gifts for the raffle were generously donated by the following companies:

Aztec Sports Properties
Balti Group Consulting
CBIZ/MHM
Callaway Golf
ChefWorks, Inc.
Cloud 9 SuperShuttle
Cyrano Designs
Global Mailing & Printing Equipment
Heat Factory
HSBC Bank
iChanneX
Julia Knoke
Northwestern Mutual Financial Network
Novus Commercial Finance
Panalpina, Inc.
Rosaline Jewelry (Dandelion Global)
Sheraton Mission Valley Hotel
Singapore Airlines
Solterra Bulbs
Stand Out International
The Bristol Hotel
WorldTrans, Inc.

Both WTCSD team members and all attendees thoroughly enjoyed the evening and look forward to the next membership mixer which will be announced soon.

To view more pictures please visit our new Facebook page!

By Allan J Crane

Alex Kunczynski, President,             Bruce Pinkston, Chief Administrative
D&K Engineering                             Officer, D&K Engineering

Diane Law, D&K Engineering Julia Knoke, Heat Factory
and Andy Kotner, WTCSD

Nancy Nicholson greets                   Andy Kotner and Dina Lieber,
WTCSD Member Joe Childrey          Novus Commercial Finance
& Al Davis

Buffet                                              Audrey Veitas; Nadia Pandes, COMMIT
                                                      and Michael Aguilar

Andy Kotner; Chuck Saathoff, Robert Tweed, Panalpina and Andy Kotner
WorldTrans Services; Paul Davis
& Tom Scrivner, Computing Insights

WTCSD Guests on the Factory
Floor of D&K Engineering