NEPA’s 15th Annual “Bringing the World to Northeastern Pennsylvania” was a great success. On Friday, September 27, 2013, 31 businesses from Northeastern Pennsylvania met with Pennsylvania’s 21 Trade Advisors from around the world at the Woodlands Inn in Wilkes-Barre, PA. The 31 businesses generated 175 one-on-one meetings with these trade advisors. The size of these businesses ranged from small to large and included many industry sectors including food, electronics, plastics, mining, metals, consumer goods, defense and service related enterprises. The overwhelming consensus from participants was very positive. Businesses reported that their meetings with the trade advisors were productive and very informative. Some businesses left with new contact information and market leads in hand.
Pennsylvania Senator Lisa Baker was the guest speaker at the luncheon. Senator Baker spoke on the importance of International Trade to the Commonwealth’s economy. The Senator mentioned that the Commonwealth’s International Trade Program has helped many Pennsylvania businesses generate new international sales, which in turn helps employ Pennsylvania citizens. She also stated that the Commonwealth’s International Trade Program is state of the art and a model that other states are evaluating to develop their own international trade programs.
Mr. Greg Driscoll, President of Blaschak Coal Corp, Mahanoy City, PA gave a presentation on The Future of Anthracite Coal. He explained there is $250 million in new investment in anthracite coal production and how mine operators must adhere to the new operating, safety and environmental rules. This new renaissance will increase the domestic and international market demand for anthracite coal, as well as add jobs in the industry.
To learn more about the International Business Development assistance, contact Michael Horvath at 570-655-5581 or 1-866-758-1929.
