Monday, March 28, 2016

The Five Biggest Stars of This Year’s New York Auto Show

Nissan’s “Godzilla” and a pack of slick SUVs make their debut in the Big Apple.

In the universe of international auto shows, Detroit’s annual rollout is the industry’s hottest ticket; the fanciest cars are unveiled in Geneva; and the wacky, high-tech numbers steer for Los Angeles. But this year the stars seem to be aligning for car lovers on Manhattan’s West Side.
Because of the vagaries of product planning and the gamesmanship that goes into model reveals, there’s a slate of exciting new stuff premiering at the Big Apple’s Javits Center this week. We talked to a bunch of carmakers and auto analysts to see what we can expect. These are the five most important—and most exciting—rides coming your way:

1. Acura MDX (2017)


The MDX is the best-selling Acura in the U.S., but BMW’s X5 has been taking some of its customers.
The MDX is the best-selling Acura in the U.S., but BMW’s X5 has been taking some of its customers. 
Acura’s big SUV is still its best-seller in America, but it’s been fading fast. Last year, MDX sales slid 11 percent, though it still managed to edge out BMW’s X5. The Germans, however, aren’t about to ease up on their siege of the swanky SUV segment, as they continue to roll out family trucks in various shapes and sizes. For Acura to stay in the game, it needs the newest MDX to be a big seller.

2. Nissan GT-R (2017)


The 2017 Nissan GT-R.
The 2017 Nissan GT-R.

It’s difficult to overstate the cultish devotion the car world has for Nissan’s GT-R. It’s known simply as Godzilla to a wide swath of drivers—from drifters in Mitsubishi compacts to the Ferrari sheikhs of Dubai. Nissan’s GT-R has been, perhaps more than any other vehicle, the apotheosis of the so-called halo car: a ridiculously advanced vehicle created as bait for the brand’s more pedestrian offerings. Godzilla has grown creaky, though. On stat sheets, it regularly gets knocked around by the latest monsters from Maranello and Stuttgart. Nissan needs a new beast to bust up the streets. Lots of little Altimas and Maximas hang in the balance.

3. Lincoln Navigator (2017)


The Ford Motor Co. Lincoln Navigator Concept is unveiled ahead of the 2016 New York International Auto Show on March 21, 2016.
The Ford Motor Co. Lincoln Navigator Concept is unveiled ahead of the 2016 New York International Auto Show on March 21, 2016

When in doubt, build a giant SUV. While American luxury still struggles to keep pace with the world’s fanciest sedans and coupes, those with means trust Detroit when it comes to trucks. The spoils, though, have been going to General Motors Co. Cadillac sold three Escalades for every one of Lincoln’s Navigators last year, with Texas-size profit margins no less. Ford Motor Co.’s blue-blood brand can’t be happy about that.

4. Toyota Highlander (2017)


Toyota’s new Highlander will take some design cues from Lexus, making it look much more aggressive than this 2016 version.
Toyota’s new Highlander will take some design cues from Lexus, making it look much more aggressive than this 2016 version. 
Toyota Motor Corp. will be trying to spoil Lincoln’s party, of course. The Highlander isn’t luxury per se, but it’s grown quite a bit more plush over the years. Like any contemporary 17-year-old, it requires lots of screens and plugs and Wi-Fi. TrueCar analyst Eric Lyman expects the new Highlander to pick up some of the aggressive design cues we’ve seen in the newest Prius and Lexus models. What says “sports car” like seating for seven?

5. Subaru Impreza (2017)


Subaru has promised a bold new look for its upcoming Impreza.
Subaru has promised a bold new look for its upcoming Impreza.

Subaru has only one problem these days: It can’t make enough cars. Customers clamor for its Forester and Outback SUVs, which are nestled in the garden spot of the car market: safe, spacious, fairly luxurious, and fairly affordable. The Impreza, Subaru’s compact hatchback, isn’t as critical. But the new one we’ll see this week will be the first car equipped with the company’s new platform, which will eventually be the foundation for every model in the lineup. Subaru also promises a new design language that will trickle through the brand. The pitch? “It’s everything you love about a Subaru in a striking new package.”
While these five are the ones to watch at the New York show, as always, be on the lookout for wild cards.

Friday, March 18, 2016

Miami-Dade County Public Schools Procurement Forecast List




Melody Thelwell, MPA
Chief Procurement Officer
Miami-Dade County Public Schools
Procurement Management Services
1450 N.E. 2nd Avenue, Suite 650
Miami, Florida 33132
Phone: (305) 995-1434
Facsimile: (305) 995-2445


Michelle Y. Hicks-Levy
Miami-Dade County Public Schools
Office of Economic Opportunity
1450 N.E. 2nd Avenue - Suite 428
Miami, Florida 33132
305.995.3003 Office ~ 305.523.0739 Fax



Thursday, March 17, 2016

Florida International Trade Events Newsletter - March 16, 2016


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Florida International Trade Events Newsletter        March 16, 2016

Welcome to Enterprise Florida's International Trade Events Newsletter!
                                                                  
New Announcement
Trade Show Grants Available for Florida Companies

New Enterprise Florida Events:
New Partner Trade Events:


Events are listed in order by date. Please contact individual event organizers for additional information.


Programs & Services for Florida Exporters



 Platinum Member Sponsor
RX logo_EF Website 2015 copy


Calendar of Events
For a complete listing of Enterprise Florida events, please click the link below.




To be added to our Trade Events mailing list please click here.

Announcement

(New)
Enterprise Florida is offering eligible small and medium-sized manufacturers and professional service providers Target Sector Trade Grants to help Florida companies grow export sales through overseas international trade shows. Target Sector Trade Grants are reimbursable grants that will help offset exhibition booth expenses for trade shows that Enterprise Florida participates in, as well as other approved trade shows in one of Florida's identified target sectors. The grant covers 50% of basic turnkey booth expenses, up to $6,000. For more information, please contact your local Enterprise Florida trade representative or click on the link above.
Enterprise Florida Trade Events

Are you ready to expand your business by exporting to Africa? Rendeavour, Africa's largest urban land developer is building seven satellite cities in five countries and will provide housing to more than 500,000 people. Over the next five years, Rendeavour will procure 500 million dollars in products and services to help with the projects. If your business operates in the following sectors, Rendeavour is interested in meeting with you: ICT & Smart Technology, Renewable Energy, Security Systems, and Healthcare. Rendeavour will select qualified companies for participation in a presentation and Q&A session, with additional slots available for one-on-one meetings. Companies are required to submit a cover letter and presentation (or summary) of their business by email to Preston Mendenhall at pmendenhall@rendeavour.com. For more information about Rendeavour, visit www.rendeavour.com.
For further information, please contact:
Preston Mendenhall
Rendeavour
pmendenhall@rendeavour.com
Bryant Salter
Enterprise Florida, Inc.
bjsalter@enterpriseflorida.com

Hannover Messe 2016

April 25-29, 2016
Hannover, Germany
The U.S. Department of Commerce, U.S. Commercial Service and Enterprise Florida are offering a unique opportunity for Florida manufacturers to meet prospective foreign buyers at Hannover Messe, the world’s premier manufacturing trade event, April 25-29, 2016 in Hannover, Germany.

The White House has announced that President Barack Obama will join German Chancellor Angela Merkel to open HANNOVER MESSE 2016. Obama will appear at the fair’s official opening ceremony on Sunday, April 24th, and is also scheduled for the traditional opening tour of the fair with Merkel on Monday morning.

Hannover Messe 2016 is five trade shows representing all aspects of modern manufacturing in one integrated event and will attract over 100 buyer delegations with more than 200,000 attendees from over 70 countries. Florida companies exhibiting in U.S. Pavilions will gain unprecedented benefits from:
  • Unmatched international exposure including a featured page on Hannover Messe 2016 website with enhanced search capabilities.
  • Tickets for the Opening Ceremony and Reception.
  • Onsite customized support from U.S. Commercial Service industry specialists.
  • Business to Government Executive Market Counseling with U.S. Commercial Service staff from among the top 25 markets present at Hannover Messe.
  • Business to Business International Partner Promotion Program.
  • Enterprise Florida trade grants of up to $6,000 are available to help offset your exhibition costs in this show.
Free Webinars:
Join our free “Know Before You Go” webinars to maximize onsite opportunities and learn more about the wealth of opportunities available at Hannover Messe 2016.

For further information, please contact:
Miguel Olivares
U.S. Commercial Service
Miguel.Olivares@trade.gov

Larry Bernaski
Enterprise Florida, Inc.
LBernaski@enterpriseflorida.com
 
Expo Seguridad 2016
Special Prime Pavilion Spaces Available


April 26-28, 2016
Mexico City, Mexico

Expo Seguridad Mexico is is the largest security show in Mexico and Latin America and will feature products from a number of large retailers in the security industry as well as contractors from government agencies around Central America.

Enterprise Florida has been provided exclusive prime space at Expo Seguridad for Florida companies. Florida will be the only state in the United States with a prime pavilion. If you would like your company to stand out at the largest security and defense show in Latin America this is the venue. Space is very limited in this prime section.
Trade Grants are available to help offset your exhibition cost in this show. Please let EFI know if you wish to receive more details on this opportunity.

For further information, please contact:
Max Stewart
Enterprise Florida Inc.
mstewart@enterpriseflorida.com

Export Development Trade Mission to Mexico

May 23-26, 2016
Mexico City, Mexico
Delegate Package Option Still Available!

Enterprise Florida is continuing to accept registrations for the Delegate Package. Delegates will have the opportunity to attend all mission events, have access to airport transfers in country when traveling on official mission flights and ground transportation to all mission events. 
For further information, please contact:
Ilona Vega
Enterprise Florida Inc.
ivega@enterpriseflorida.com

Stephanie Pavolini
Enterprise Florida Inc.
spavolini@enterpriseflorida.com

Farnborough International Airshow 2016

July 11-17, 2016
Hampshire, United Kingdom
The Farnborough International Airshow is a global showcase for the aerospace industry and its reputation alone attracts a global audience. For manufacturers, this show is an opportunity to demonstrate the latest and greatest aircraft and engines to prospective customers. For suppliers, having a presence at the show provides an opportunity to showcase products and services to a targeted audience.

Why the Florida Pavilion?
This Enterprise Florida, Inc. (EFI) led trip provides exposure for Florida aviation and aerospace companies representing a diverse range of sectors such as: Space, Civil, Defense, Manufacturing Technology, Rotary and MRO. Exhibiting in the Florida Pavilion is a very effective and efficient way to meet with potential customers and suppliers. EFI has multiple booth package options to choose from, access to private meeting rooms and a lounge area complete with refreshments and a hostess. Your company will be sure to stand out amongst the crowd.

Trade Grants are available to help offset your exhibition cost in this show. Please let EFI know if you wish to receive more details on this opportunity.

For further information, please contact:
Paul Mitchell
Enterprise Florida Inc.
pmitchell@enterpriseflorida.com
 
Medical Fair Asia 2016

August 31, 2016 to September 2, 2016
Singapore
Medical Fair Asia is Southeast Asia’s most definitive event for the medical and healthcare industry and will be held at a new venue – the Marina Bay Sands Convention Center in Singapore. Medical Fair Asia is well positioned to be the No.1 procurement stage for industry professionals to experience new and innovative technologies, solutions, products and services. With an anticipated participation of 1,000 exhibitors form 45 countries, 20 national pavilion and country groups and an expected attendance of 15,000 qualified trade buyers and decision makers from across Asia. At this event, new digital healthcare solutions such as remote and wireless healthcare, IT platforms, wearable devices, smarter medicine and healthcare analytics are also expected to be showcased by participating exhibitors. Focused on equipment and supplies for the hospital, diagnostic, pharmaceutical, medical and rehabilitation sectors, the event continues to raise the overall capabilities and spur the growth of the region’s medical and healthcare sectors to meet the changing demands in both the public and private sectors. Enterprise Florida, Inc. has secured space for a Florida section. Individual booths are being offered for Florida companies to exhibit within the USA Pavilion. Space is limited and will be sold on a first-come, first served basis.

Trade Grants are available to help offset your exhibition cost in this show. Please let EFI know if you wish to receive more details on this opportunity.

For further information, please contact:
Michael Schiffhauer
Enterprise Florida Inc.
mschiffhauer@enterpriseflorida.com

SMM Hamburg

September 6-9, 2016
Hamburg, Germany
Enterprise Florida (EFI) is pleased to announce its support for SMM Hamburg. The bi-annual SMM Hamburg is the world’s largest B2B international trade show for the commercial marine industry. In 2014, SMM Hamburg featured over two thousand exhibitors, and fifty thousand visitors. Independent space at SMM Hamburg is virtually sold out however Enterprise Florida is working with the U.S. show organizer to secure space for Florida companies within the USA Pavilion. This is a U.S. Department of Commerce certified event meaning on-site Commerce staff will provide support to all U.S. exhibitors.

Trade Grants are available to help offset your exhibition cost in this show. Please let EFI know if you wish to receive more details on this opportunity.

For further information, please contact:
Larry Bernaski
Enterprise Florida Inc.
lbernaski@enterpriseflorida.com
 
SemiCon 2016
Themed Florida Pavilion

September 7-9, 2016
Taipei, Taiwan
Do you want  to showcase your company on the international semiconductor stage with countries like Germany, Holland and Korea? SEMICON Taiwan 2016 annually attracts more than 3,300 attendees representing lithography, 3D IC, advanced packaging, memory, IC design, IoT, MEMS, smart manufacturing, high-tech facility, materials and more. Theme pavilions and country pavilions can provide you with a blueprint for regional markets and new business opportunities for Taiwan’s procurement community.

Enterprise Florida (EFI) will recruit Florida companies to join the first ever Florida pavilion for the semiconductor and advanced manufacturing community. Florida will be the only state in the United States with a themed state pavilion. Contact EFI if your company would like to stand out and participate in the the largest semiconductor show in Asia.
Trade Grants are available to help offset your exhibition cost in this show. Please let EFI know if you wish to receive more details on this opportunity.

For further information, please contact:
Max Stewart
Enterprise Florida Inc.
mstewart@enterpriseflorida.com

Andrea Moore
Enterprise Florida Inc.
amoore@enterpriseflorida.com
Partner Trade Events

International Contracts

March 22, 2016
Orlando, Florida
Join Nathaniel Friends, Esq., former General Counsel at AT&T International, to learn about Foreign Sales Representative Agreements. Expect to gain a better understanding of essential clauses, to learn the structure for efficient and effective communication, to understand the initial contract terms, and much more. This seminar is one of a three-part series to help companies understand the different types of international business agreements: Sales Representative Agreements, Distributor Agreements and Licensing Agreements.

 
(New)
Business and Investment Opportunities in the Czech Republic

March 22, 2016 - Miami, Florida
 (Click link for more information regarding Miami event)

March 24, 2016 - Orlando, Florida
 (Click link for more information regarding Orlando event)
The Embassy of the Czech Republic in Washington D.C. cordially invites you to attend the Business and Investment Opportunities in the Czech Republic breakfast presentation in Miami and Orlando. The Honorable Pavel Belobradek, Vice Prime Minister of the Czech Republic will serve as the guest speaker. There will also be an opportunity for networking with visiting Czech companies. For more information regarding the Czech Business Delegation, click here.

Introduction to Importing Into the U.S.

March 26, 2016
Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
At the Introduction to Importing Into the U.S seminar, attendees will learn about: The “who, what, when, where and why's" of importing; U.S. government agencies that regulate imports; A discussion of the parties involved in import transactions; How best to work with your customs broker; CBP requirements and documentation; Customs enforcement and penalties and how to avoid them. Book private 15 minute one-on-one meetings with Elena Asturias or Jennifer Diaz (Email info@diaztradelaw.com to schedule).

This is an opportunity for small, medium, and large U.S. firms to learn about new World Bank procurement reforms, chief among them a move from a “lowest cost” to a “best value” system that favors U.S. firms accustomed to demonstrating value over a project’s full life cycle. The World Bank’s U.S. Executive Director Matthew T. McGuire will host a webinar explaining how your company can benefit from these changes and bid effectively on future World Bank projects. Please RSVP for this webinar at www.state.gov/directline by Monday, March 28, 2016. Participation is limited to first 100 registrants.
The Dominican Intl Business, Tourism & Development Federation, Inc. invites companies to meet new contacts and explore new opportunities in trade, commerce, tourism, real estate, investment and business with the international and Dominican business community at the Florida-Dominican Republic Business Trade & Tourism Showcase.
 
(New)
Sarasota/Manatee Export Edge 2016: Export Basics

April 8, 2016
Sarasota, Florida
Increasing sales is the goal for any company wanting to succeed and 95% of the market for your products and services are outside of the U.S.A. This workshop will teach you how to start selling to markets you thought were not accessible. Using current tools, you will walk through the process to: prepare your company for export, understand regulations and common practices for selling internationally, target markets where your product could be sold, and identify appropriate channels and channel partners. The cost is $49 and includes lunch. Please bring your laptop or electronic device to the workshop. This event is organized by the State College of Florida - Lakewood Ranch. For more information or to make a reservation, contact Lee Kotwicki, SCF Workforce Solutions Manager, at 941-363-7218 or kotwicL@scf.edu.
 
Import Compliance for Small Business

April 9, 2016
Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
At the Import Compliance for Small Businesses seminar, attendees will learn about: The importers burden of “reasonable care” with U.S. Customs; Importer responsibilities; How importers can best manage transactions; Due Diligence/CBP Rulings documentation and procedures; How to monitor and audit your shipments; and How to create your customs compliance program. Book private 15 minute one-on-one meetings with Elena Asturias or Jennifer Diaz. Email info@diaztradelaw.com to schedule.
 
(New)
Explore Business Opportunities in Latin America

April 11, 2015
Debary, Florida
The Volusia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce invites you to attend the Explore Business Opportunities in Latin America seminar. You will learn how to do business in Latin America, information regarding the grants and financial resources available to companies, and how to develop an export marketing plan. The guest speakers for the event are: Axel Lopez, Latin Trade Consultant, Rafael Pratts, SBDC at UCF Trade Specialist and Antonio Lasi from the Florida Export Finance Corporation.

(New)
Sixth Annual World Strategic Forum

April 11-12, 2016
Miami, Florida
The World Strategic Forum is presented by the International Economic Forum of the Americas. Its mission is to address the major governance challenges of the new world economic order, focusing on the central role of the Americas and in the global market. Over 90 speakers and 1,100 participants are expected to be at the Biltmore Hotel. Confirmed speakers include Enrique García Rodríguez, Executive President, Development Bank of Latin America (CAF), Luis Almagro Lemes, Secretary General, Organization of American States, Arnold Donald, President and CEO, Carnival Corporation, Jorge Quijano, CEO, Panama Canal Authority, Thierry Déau, Founding Partner, Chairman and CEO, Meridiam and Thomas J. Donohue, President and CEO, U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

 
Export Sales Mission to Costa Rica

April 12-15, 2016
San José, Costa Rica
You are invited to join the Tampa Bay Export Alliance on an Export Sales Mission to San José, Costa Rica. The mission will feature the U.S. Commercial Service Gold Key program which provides customized and pre-screened one-on-one appointments with potential customers or partners in Costa Rica. Costa Rica is a heavy consumer market and enjoys the region’s highest standard of living. U.S. products have an excellent reputation for quality and price-competitiveness, and the CAFTA-DR trade agreement eliminates most of the duties on U.S. exports. With grants available to qualified companies to cover one thousand dollars of the Gold Key fee, this mission offers an excellent opportunity for Tampa Bay companies to expand their sales to Costa Rica. Registration deadlines for the Mission Packages are as follows: Trade/Gold Key Package - Friday, February 19, 2016 and Delegate Package - Sunday, February 28, 2016.

Business Development Mission to the People's Republic of China

April 12-20, 2016
Guangzhou and Shanghai
The mission to the People's Republic of China is scheduled from April 12 - 20, 2016. Mission participants will visit the Canton Import & Export Fair in Guangzhou, tour the Hangzhou Economic, Technology & High Tech Development Zones in Hangzhou (home of Alibaba Company - the leading global sourcing e-commerce platform). In Shanghai, mission delegates will have ample opportunities for networking and one-to-one business matchmaking meetings, in-country briefing and presentations. After the China mission, participants may (optional) join the Enterprise Florida Export Sales Mission in Taiwan from April 20 - 23, 2016.


Selling to Latin America

April 13, 2016
Tampa, Florida

In this economy, improving sales can be a tough proposition. Maybe it is time to expand your customer base to Mexico, Central or South America? Get insider tips and strategies on selling to this region, information on trade agreements, and how exporting to Latin America is becoming easier. You will learn how to identify demographics and trends; select potential partners from diverse local options; and understand cultural norms that permeate the region. This course is designed for new to export or new to market businesses. Aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, heavy machinery, sporting goods, textiles and travel industries will be covered along with other top prospects. This event is hosted by the SBDC at the University of South Florida.

 
Export - Import Expo Conference

April 14, 2016
Sunrise, Florida
This is a unique event in Florida for companies that are interested in exporting or companies that are currently exporting to learn about the latest services or products to help them compete and succeed around the globe. This event enables exporters and importers to put their products at the forefront of an audience of industry leaders - fellow entrepreneurs and international trade service providers. This event presents many opportunities for creating business relationships abound, from workshops to industry focused meetups all catered for in a day of unequaled business networking.
 
China Import Expo

May 19-21, 2016
Kunshan, China
The China Import Expo is the largest and most diverse annual trade show in China for international attendees and exhibitors. All industries are welcome. Participants will benefit from a booth presence, matchmaking sessions, networking and access to the Chinese market. The World Trade Center Orlando is offering companies several exclusive package options for the expo. An additional six day package option is available that is a high level, in-depth executive tour of Shanghai and Beijing from May 22 - 27, 2016. This includes visitation and meeting at China's largest trade center, the Beijing International Trade Center.

Discover Global Markets - The Americas

June 15-16, 2016
Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
Join the U.S. Commercial Service, the South Florida District Export Council and Enterprise Florida for Discover Global Markets: The Americas, the premier international business conference for U.S. executives. This conference is designed to help U.S. businesses take advantage of establish and emerging export opportunities in the Americas.

At Discover Global Markets The Americas you will:
  • Meet one-on-one with U.S. Commercial Diplomats from the following countries: Argentina, Bahamas, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama and Peru.
  • Participate in Dynamic Panel sessions on refining your export strategy.
  • Network with trade experts, industry pros and fellow exporters.

Latin Auto Parts Expo

June 15-17, 2016
Panama City, Republic of Panama
The Latin Auto Parts Expo is the leading auto parts show in Latin America and the Caribbean. The Expo provides manufacturers and distributors direct access to the OEM, replacement parts, aftermarket parts, automotive re-manufactured parts and tuning markets in a warm and personal setting that forges long lasting commercial and personal relationships. At the Latin Auto Parts Expo you have the opportunity to connect directly to auto part dealers in Central and South America and the Caribbean to expand your market. Visitor admission is free for all auto part industry members.