Bringing the World to PA 2022

The World Trade Center Harrisburg in conjunction with the Pennsylvania’s Department of Community and Economic Development hosted Bringing the World to PA 2022 on September 14 at the National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg PA.  Everyone was excited to be meeting in person for the first time in several years due to the Covid pandemic. 

12 Pennsylvania’s International Trade Representatives, 30 clients representing 22 regional businesses, 6 sponsors and exhibitors, and other partners joined together for a spirited day of discussing international market opportunities.  12 client companies were new, first time attendees of the event.  Overall, 115 meetings took place between trade representative and businesses.  

The day started bright and early with several 8 am meetings.  By 9 am, and throughout most of the day, the trade representatives had a steady flow of meetings.    Lively discussions continued into the luncheon.

Allan Klinge, Chair of the WTCH Board, shared recent trade successes and then introduced our two speakers.  Randy Campbell, Administrator of FTZ 147 provided an overview of our region's foreign trade zone’s history and spectacular growth in recent years.  Amy Sahm, Senior Vice President and Manager, International Group, Fulton Bank was our keynote speaker.  She provided a review of the current environment of increasing global sanctions programs, potential banking delays and fluctuating currency markets.

 

 Everyone was back to business after lunch with many of the afternoon meeting slots completely filled.  The day ended with positive words of successful discussions and promising trade leads.   We look forward to advancing the prospective opportunities from these meetings through export work orders, projects and grants.

Maureen Hotchner, Hotchner Workplace Wellness, was one of the first time attendees.  She positively commented about the event, saying, "Thanks so much for facilitating the “speed dating” event this week!  I learned a lot and it was fantastic meeting the local and foreign attendees." 

Client Chiemeka "Kingsley" Chikezie from Air Dynamics in York, PA summed up the event perfectly with these words,  "Air Dynamics appreciates the opportunity to connect with the various Authorized Trade Representatives from yesterdays PA World Trade event.  We utilized the opportunity as a chance to gather information regarding the various markets and guidance regarding International Trade (Imports/Exports). All the representatives were more than helpful, and the guidance provided was invaluable."