2025 International Trade Conference Recap

posted by Alexandra Perry

On May 6, World Trade Center Harrisburg hosted our annual 2025 International Trade Conference at the Eden Hotel in Lancaster, PA. We were honored to bring together global consulates, industry leaders, and professionals from across the Southcentral Pennsylvania region to discuss global issues that impact local businesses. This event served as a platform for networking, global collaboration, and discussion aimed at advancing international trade.

            The all-day event welcomed over 60 attendees that represented various industries across Southcentral PA. The keynote presentation was presented by Matthew Brennan, CFA, of Fulton Private Bank and Fulton Financial Advisors, and covered hot trade topics such as tariffs and how businesses can financially plan for any upcoming changes.

Attendees then joined several breakout sessions that covered subjects such as Harmonized Tariff Codes, local Foreign Trade Zone 147, exporting and user destination, and export financing. These breakout sessions were presented by experts from Team Worldwide, Campbell Trade Group Inc, EXIM Bank, Fulton Financial Corporation, and the US Small Business Administration. 

The luncheon panel discussion, moderated by David Briel of BusinessPA, presented the opportunity for attendees to gain valuable trade insight from some of the United States’ top trading partners. We were honored to host a lineup of exceptional speakers who shared their expertise and perspectives on the future of international trade:

●       Geoff Gartshore, Deputy Consul General of Canada, New York, NY

●       Carlos Obrador, Head Consul of Mexico, Philadelphia, PA

●       Jens Pohlmann, Counselor Trade Policy at the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany, Washington, DC

The event concluded with the recognition of  Lancaster County based company, Ecore International Inc, for  being one of just twelve companies to receive EXIM Bank’s prestigious 2025 Exporter of the Year Award. Anna Weidmayer and Kyle Harnish accepted the award presented by Regina Gordin, Deputy Managing Director of EXIM Bank.

We are excited about the fruitful conversations and momentum this event has created. Stay tuned for upcoming WTCH events including the Philadelphia Port Tour, and trade shows such as the Paris Air Show and the Summer Fancy Food Show.

Thank you to all of our amazing speakers, attendees, members, partners, and sponsors who made the 2025 International Trade Conference a success. We look forward to hosting more trade events and discussions to shape economic growth in the Southcentral Pennsylvania region.

    

Thank you again to our sponsors for your generous support!