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Europe

Team & Other Events

Small is Beautiful Online Webinar Series -- Export Opportunities in Europe:

Benelux Region (January 29, 2009) 

Webinar - January 29, 2009
11:30 AM Eastern Time/ 8:30 AM Pacific Time
Cost: $35

Register Here

The Benelux webinar will highlight top export opportunities, including those in the manufacturing sector, as well as major projects such as the construction of the new NATO headquarters. Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg – the Benelux – are superb export markets for U.S. companies and can serve as competitive logistical hubs for Europe. The citizens of the Benelux appreciate U.S. products and services and are able to pay in a timely manner. U.S. firms have relatively few problems doing business in this region. Join this webinar on January 29, 2009, to find out how to sell into the Benelux.


Belgium (pop. 10.5 million) is the 12th largest trading partner of the United States and the port of Antwerp is the main U.S. container port for all of Europe.

The Netherlands (pop. 16.5 million)is the "Gateway to Europe". Over 7,000 U.S. exporters have representation here, and 1,600 U.S. firms have a Dutch subsidiary.

Luxembourg (pop. .5 million) is second only to the U.S. for mutual fund assets and boasts strong chemical, rubber, health technologies and logistics sectors.

Speaker: Paul Kullman, Senior Commercial Officer, U.S. Embassy Belgium

For questions, please contact:

Deborah Doherty, Harrisburg
USEAC Director
Phone: 717-872-4386
deborah.doherty@N0SPAM.mail.doc.gov  

Paul Kullman, Brussels
Senior Commercial Officer
Phone: 32 2 508 2425
paul.kullman@N0SPAM.mail.doc.gov  

Rebecca Balogh, OIO - Training Complement
Commercial Officer
Phone: 202 637 3407
Rebecca.Balogh@N0SPAM.mail.doc.gov  

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Ireland (February 4, 2009) 

Webinar - February 4, 2009
11:30 AM Eastern Time/ 8:30 AM Pacific Time
Cost: $35

Register Here

Ireland serves as an American business Doorway to Europe due to its roles within the Eurozone and as business-friendly partner to key U.S. multinationals. Now as a mature, high value-added economy, Ireland boasts of the headquarters for IT companies such as Intel, HP, Dell, Microsoft, Google, Ebay, and Facebook as well as medical/life sciences firms such as Johnson & Johnson, Pfizer, Wyeth, Abbott, Boston Scientific and Medtronics. In this context of multinational corporate success, CS Dublin provides for a ready-made entry point to Europe for small and medium-sized new-to-market firms.

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Alpine Region (March 11, 2009) 

Webinar - March 11, 2009
11:30 AM Eastern Time/ 8:30 AM Pacific Time
Cost: $35

Register Here

If your company's export strategy includes entry or expansion into the European market, do not forget to consider Switzerland, the fastest growing market in Europe for U.S. exports and an epicenter for European and global competition. Switzerland has a strong economy and its population of 7.5 million is affluent and cosmopolitan. Market demand is strong for a wide range of U.S. exports, particularly for high-quality products with competitive prices. U.S. suppliers are benefiting from the strong Swiss franc, giving U.S. products a strong competitive edge. Switzerland has a highly automated manufacturing sector, a strong commitment to R&D, and one of the world's highest IT spending rates per capita. A strong high tech orientation makes it an ideal test market for U.S. exporters of advanced technologies. And although Switzerland is not a direct member of the European Union, it has very close ties with the EU, has adopted many of its standards, and can serve as a springboard for exports to the EU.

Austria is home to a stable democracy and more than 8 million affluent consumers. Austria is a member of the European Union, benefits U.S. exporters through its participation in the ?Eurozone?, and presents few market barriers. Austria is a Germanic speaking country and allows U.S. exporters familiar with doing business in Germany to move to a similar market right next door. It can also provide an ideal test market before expanding into Germany. Austria's geographic location and historic business ties also make it an ideal launching pad for businesses looking to tap into the double digit growth markets of Central and Eastern Europe.

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Nordic Region (April 1, 2009) 

Webinar - April 1, 2009
11:30 AM Eastern Time/ 8:30 AM Pacific Time
Cost: $35

Register Here

The Nordic Region (Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden) together with partner posts in the Baltics Estonia and Latvia) is a large and sophisticated marketplace, the eighth largest economy in the world, and considered worldwide to be a excellent test market for new products and an easy-to-enter market for new-to-market (NTM) companies. English is widely understood, business agreements are reliable, and commuting within the Nordics is easy to organize.

The Nordic countries have close ties to the United States culturally and historically (chances are Eric the Red and his son Leif Ericson both visited North America over 1000 years ago).

Excellent opportunities for US businesses exist in this market-diverse area, from offshore oil and gas equipment in Norway to a rich array of durables and consumables for all countries.

Our offices and partner posts in these Nordic countries now offer a unique opportunity for U.S. companies that want region-wide new market help. We will plan for you a package of simple, affordable, and multi-stop services that fit your company products and market profiles to help you quickly explore and enter some or all of the Nordic countries! You CAN do it all in one trip!

Recent visits of Commercial Service clients using the above regional Nordic Plan for business appointments have reported excellent results.

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Spain and Portugal (May 20, 2009) 

Webinar - May 20, 2009
11:30 AM Eastern Time/ 8:30 AM Pacific Time
Cost: $35

Register Here

If you already sell to Europe, chances are you sell only to two countries. Now is your chance to leap into neighboring markets!

With 15 years of positive growth, Spain has been one of the European Union's best economic performers. Spain is the world's eighth largest economy and has a population of 45 million and a GDP of $1.4 trillion. Major Spanish firms in the telecommunications, banking, infrastructure and energy sectors have become global leaders. Many of these companies' international purchases are actually centralized through their buying offices in Spain. Thus, making a sale to Telefonica or BBVA result in exports to many other international markets.

U.S. exports to Spain through September 2008 were USD 8.5 billion, an increase of 31 percent compared with the same period in 2007. The United States is the second largest non-European Union exporter to Spain, second only to China ($18 billion) in exports.

Even in these difficult times, Spain has a transparent and dynamic market, with great potential for U.S. exporters. We invite you to learn more about untapped opportunities in Spain.

Portugal, with a population of over 10 million, is one of the European Union's original member nations and a founding member of the Eurozone. The country's GDP in 2007 was $228 billion. Portugal's strategic location in Western Europe with access to EU and international markets, an educated and low-cost workforce, modern infrastructure, commitment to innovation, pleasant living environment, and other attractive attributes have led companies such as Microsoft, Cisco, Pfizer, Citigroup and many others to establish operations here, both in manufacturing and services.

This presentation will provide a country profile with current facts and figures, identifying key challenges and major growth opportunities, offering business strategy insights, and highlighting Portugal's competitive advantages for U.S. exporters of all sizes and capabilities.

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Greece (June 3, 2009)

Webinar - June 3, 2009
11:30 AM Eastern Time/8:30 AM Pacific Time
Cost: $35

Register Here

If you are like most U.S. companies that export to Europe, you probably only export to one or two countries. Why not make the leap to smaller but still strong markets in Europe!

Join the U.S. Commercial Service and the National Association of Manufacturers to learn more about doing business in Greece. This is the sixth of the Small is Beautiful webinar series outlining smaller but worthwhile markets in Europe.

Greece is an import dependant country and one of the largest buyers of U.S. defense equipment in the world. Greece’s growth rate is still expected to be positive (2.4 percent) in 2009. In the EU, Greece has been among the better countries in weathering the global crisis.

Business opportunities for U.S. companies are strong in the public sector with ongoing privatizations in the telecommunication, transportation, energy, ports, and banking sector. EU standards & certificates make it easier for U.S. firms to expand their businesses in Greece.

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European Port Security and Infrastructure Webinar (Online - March 10, 2009)

Learn where the opportunities are and how to access them through an upcoming trade mission!

March 10, 2009
11:30 AM Eastern Time/ 8:30 AM Pacific Time
Cost: Free
Registration: CLICK HERE

The U.S. Commercial Service is pleased to present this webinar for U.S. exporters interested in learning about opportunities at some of Europe’s key ports. The program will focus on Antwerp, Hamburg, and Genoa and highlight an upcoming trade mission visiting these ports.

In Europe, as in other markets, a strong emphasis has been placed on homeland security, transportation, environmental safety and critical infrastructure development.  The European Union has adopted rules regarding maritime safety and security to ensure quality shipping that respects the environment and guarantees an optimal level of protection.  The major focus is on environmental impact, safety and security, and unification and simplification of procedures.  This scenario will provide excellent opportunities for U.S. companies operating in a variety of areas. 

To learn more please join us for our webinar on European Port Security and Infrastructure.

Register now or contact us for more information:

Barbara Lapini, barbara.lapini@N0SPAM.mail.doc.gov , Tel. 1 202 482 0499
Greg Thompson, greg.thompson@N0SPAM.mail.doc.gov , Tel. 1-214-712-1932
Maria Calabria, maria.calabria@N0SPAM.mail.doc.gov , Tel. 011 39 06 4674 2427

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IWA & OutdoorClassics 2009 (Nuremberg, Germany - March 13-16, 2009)

IWA & OutdoorClassics 2009 is Europe's leading exhibition in the hunting, sport shooting and law enforcement sector.  The show takes place March 13-16, 2009 in Nuremberg, Germany.  In 2008, 1,046 exibitors presented their products and services to approximately 32,000 trade visitors from 99 nations.  The U.S. Commercial Service in cooperation with the show organizers for the first time will offer U.S. companies a unique opportunity to showcase their products and evaluate the show at  sensational price starting at only $900!  Located within the U.S. Pavilion, the ABC enables participants to display samples of their products and product literature to an international audience; meet potential partners, agents, distributors and buyers; and close business deals without the expense of an exhibition booth.

For more information contact: 
Florian.Tremmel@N0SPAM.mail.doc.gov   or  Sandra.Necessary@N0SPAM.mail.doc.gov  

To learn more/register

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Swedish-American Entrepreneurial Days (Savannah, Georgia - April 20-22, 2009)

"Accessing Growth Capital for a Sustainable Future"

Building on an already successful concept of business matchmaking, interactive exhibits, expert panels, seminars and effective networking, the 2009 Entrepreneurial Days in Savannah will bring attention to Accessing Growth Capital for a Sustainable Future - Stimulating Entrepreneurship, Innovation Systems, and Technology Advancement Connecting Business, Investors, Economic Development and Centers of Excellence

On the agenda is Business Matchmaking; Stellar Speakers from Sweden and the US; Edays Banquet Dinner; Seminars & Workshops; and lots of Networking.

Featuring Industry Deep Dives in Logistics, Industrial Design
and Renewable Energy

For more information and to register, please click here.

For questions, please contact:

Swedish-American Chamber of Commerce of the USA, Inc.
1403 King Street
Alexandria, VA 22314, USA
Phone: (703) 836 6560
Fax: (703) 836 6561
Email: info@N0SPAM.sacc-usa.org

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Trade Winds Forum Europe (Warsaw, Poland - April 20-22, 2009)

Register Your Interest Today - This event is only open to 50 U.S. Companies!

Does your company have a Pan European Business Strategy? U.S. exports are growing four times faster than the economy as a whole.  Europe presents a market filled with opportunities for U.S. businesses. If you're already doing business in one, two or several European countries, expansion throughout the continent is the next logical step.  Poland constitutes a market of 38 million people located in the heart of central Europe and is a fully integrated member of the EU.  By participating in this event, U.S. companies have the chance to make or increase sales in this booming region with a customized itinerary, according to country market demand.

Meet with U.S. Senior Commercial Officers from 27 Countries in Europe - All in one location!  Currently stationed overseas, each of these Commercial Officers is in a unique position to deliver the most up-to-date information on developing opportunities for U.S. business.  More importantly the Officers can be your best resource to help your company develop and maintain market presence, find local partners, help launch your products or services, obtain valuable market research and protect your IPR.  You will have the opportunity to meet privately with the U.S. Senior Commercial Officers to discuss business opportunities for your company.

Business to Business Matchmaking Appointments!  Are you looking to meet potential business partners in Poland?  On the third day of the program you will participate in prearranged business appointments with Polish companies whose interests and objectives match your requirements.  Meetings will be held at the hotel and each company will receive an agenda of prearranged appointments prior to arrival in Poland.

Customize your Itinerary!  While in Europe take the opportunity to visit another high-potential market for your product/service.  For an additional fee we recommend an optional day of customized business appointments in your country of choice.

Extra Promotion!!  Commercial News USA (CNUSA) – Special Trade Winds Europe Edition: The catalog-style magazine is designed to help American companies promote products and services to buyers overseas.  All companies will be listed in a special Trade Winds Europe CNUSA for distribution and promotion throughout Europe. Each company receives ¼ page ad.

Cost of Program: $1,650 for companies with less than 500 employees, $2,850 for companies with more than 500 employees - Fee does not include air travel or lodging. This event is open to 50 U.S. companies with market potential in Poland and Europe.

For additional information and to register your interest, please click here.

Questions, please contact any of our Trade Winds Europe Team members: 

Debora Sykes,  Ph 856-722-1032/email: Debora.Sykes@N0SPAM.mail.doc.gov
Deborah Doherty, Ph 717-872-4386/email: Deborah.Doherty@N0SPAM.mail.doc.gov
Dusan Marinkovic, Ph 317-582-2300/email: Dusan.Marinkovic@N0SPAM.mail.doc.gov

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10th International Exhibition of Defense & Security Technologies – IDET
(Brno, Czech Republic – May 2-9, 2009)


IDET 2009 is the 10th edition of the International Fair of Defense and Security Technologies that is held on a biennial basis at the Brno Trade Fairgrounds (BVV), Czech Republic. www.idet.cz

IDET brings together all major manufacturers and suppliers to defense and security industry of the Czech Republic to meet with their associates and counter-parts attending from Central and Eastern Europe. The 2007 exhibition registered 27,500 attendees from 59 countries along with official delegations of armies of NATO and the Partnership for Peace countries.

Exhibitor Rates and Services:
Package Exhibit Space:  $540 per square meter includes walls, carpet, name sign, lights and furniture package of info counter, stool, display table, two chairs and waste basket plus full listing in the catalogue.
Raw Exhibit Space - $450 per square meter, full listing in catalogue

If you are interested in this event, please contact:  Hana Obrusnikova
e-mail: hana.obrusnikova@N0SPAM.mail.doc.gov or Sharon Bongiovanni, e-mail:  sharon.bongiovanni@N0SPAM.mail.doc.gov

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European Port Infrastructure and Security Trade Mission
Germany, Belgium and Italy
May 4-8, 2009

In Europe, as in other markets, a strong emphasis has been placed on homeland security, transportation, environmental safety and critical infrastructure development.  The European Union has adopted rules regarding maritime safety and security to ensure quality shipping that respects the environment and guarantees an optimal level of protection.  The major focus is on environmental impact, safety and security, and unification and simplification of procedures.  This scenario will provide excellent opportunities for U.S. companies operating in a variety of areas.  

The United States Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration, U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service, is organizing a Trade Mission to Germany, Belgium and Italy, May 4-8, 2009. This event is intended to tap immediate opportunities in port infrastructure, and security, logistics and environment in Hamburg, Germany; Antwerp, Belgium; and Genoa, Italy. Because these ports are key gateways to the Western European market, companies from countries beyond Germany, Belgium, and Italy will be informed about the mission and encouraged to meet with the U.S. participants.

All stops will include country briefings, meetings with port authorities on planned projects and expected infrastructure and security needs, one-on-one business meetings between U.S. participants and end-users and partners, and a reception.  Meetings will be scheduled with individuals from both the public sector (e.g., port authorities and customs officials) and private business (e.g., shipping agents, marine terminal operators, local security system companies, etc.).    Follow-on Gold Key meetings in other countries may be set up before or after the mission for an additional price, depending on participants’ wishes.

After a company has been selected to participate in the mission, a payment to the Department of Commerce in the form of a participation fee is required. The participation fee is $3,000 per company for small or medium enterprises (SME) and $3,700 per company for large firms. The fee for each additional firm representative (large firm or SME) is $500 per person. Expenses for lodging, most transportation (except, for example, bus/train transportation to Antwerp, Belgium and Genoa, Italy), most meals, and incidentals will be the responsibility of each mission participant.
Application for participation in the event is open to selected U.S. companies with equipment/solutions and services pertinent to the event scope and who are interested in doing business in the European market.  

To preregister for this event, click here.

Companies interested in learning more about participation in this event may contact either Maria Calabria, Trade Specialist, maria.calabria@N0SPAM.mail.doc.gov , tel: +39-06 4674 2427/2382; or Greg Thompson,  Trade Specialist, greg.thompson@N0SPAM.mail.doc.gov , tel: (214) 712-1932.

A webinar presenting the trade mission has been scheduled for March 10 at 11:30 EST.  Please contact either Maria Calabria or Barbara Lapini, Trade Information Center (TIC), Barbara.Lapini@N0SPAM.mail.doc.gov

The deadline for registration to participate in the trade mission is March 23.  

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PAST EVENTS AND PRESENTATIONS: 

WEEE/RoHS Update Webinar

Evant Details:
Thursday, February 12, 2009
This webinar, sponsored by the U.S. Commercial Service Europe Team and the U.S. Mission to the EU, provided U.S. manufacturers of electrical and electronic equipment with an overview of the proposals for a legislative review of the EU's RoHS Directive, including the context and the content of the text. Presenters included, Chris Sherwood, Commercial Specialist, U.S. Mission to the EU, and Abbie Cottrell of AeA Europe.

This Webinar will be available on this website for the next few weeks.  Prior to downloading the recording, please contact Deborah Doherty below to obtain a password.

Access Recorded Webinar

For password contact:
Deborah Doherty at 717-872-4386 or via email: deborah.doherty@N0SPAM.mail.doc.gov

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CE Marking Training Webinar and Presentation

Event Details:
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
The event was organized for U.S. Commercial Trade Specialists to assist them in better serving and counseling U.S. companies.  The Webinar addressed mandatory preparatory steps required prior to exporting to the EU. Ms. Sylvia Mohr, CE Marking Specialist shared practical aspects of CE Marking counseling for all levels - beginners and more experienced. 

This Webinar will be available on this website free of charge for the next few weeks along with Ms. Sylvia Mohr's presentation. 

To view the Webinar, click here. User Name: PW7108659, Pw: 60711

To download the presentation, click here

For questions, please contact Deborah Doherty at tel: 717-872-4386 or via email: Deborah.Doherty@N0SPAM.mail.doc.gov

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European Union REACH Webinar

Event Details:
Thursday, November 6, 2008 11 AM Eastern Time / 8 AM Pacific Time.
The event addressed important questions surrounding REACH (EU Chemicals Directive) including: deadlines & timelines; preregistration; the Candidate List; new developments in REACH; and appointing Only Representatives. 

This webinar has been recorded.
Cost: $50

Click Here to Access the Recording of this Webinar

Note: After purchasing the recording of the webinar you will also obtain copies of the presentations as well as the Q&A sheet, which will be sent to you.

For questions, please contact Leticia Arias at tel: 310-235-7204 or via email: Leticia.Arias@N0SPAM.mail.doc.gov   

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For questions on the Europe Team and information on becoming a member, please click here.