Valley agribusinesses invited to explore global exporting opportunities

Agribusinesses in the San Joaquin Valley are invited to attend a free seminar to learn how to export to foreign markets. The Exporting in a Global Market seminar will be offered in four locations: Kerman on June 17, Livingston on June 18, Delano on June 20 and Oakdale on June 21. Each seminar will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and lunch will be provided.

Organized by the California Centers for International Trade Development (CITD) at State Center Community College District, these one-day training seminars will cover all aspects of the export cycle. The purpose of the workshops is to enhance the competitive strength of rural California businesses in the metropolitan and international marketplaces, as well as improve the economic condition of the rural communities within specified project areas.

Seminar registrants must be rural agribusinesses that have been in operation for at least one year. They must have an employer identification number (EIN) and have a product to export.

Agribusinesses selling new and used agricultural equipment and technology, irrigation equipment, “green” environmental technology and agricultural food products would benefit from attending the seminar and expanding into the global marketplace. Companies must register in advance however, there is no fee to participate.

The seminar will be led by Dennis Lynch, a 32-year veteran of international trade and a consultant and trainer for the Centers for International Trade Development.

He will explain the benefits of exporting products overseas and how to develop “export readiness” skills in order to succeed in a global marketplace. The seminar will also provide a look at California’s top exports and markets, as well as where to find sources of marketing research to develop knowledge of business practices and opportunities.