Sandy, UT

May 7, 2012

On April 19, the World Trade Association of Utah hosted an event on what you should know but don’t know about importing.  Guest speakers at the event were Holly Garza from High Desert CHB and Scott Ogden from Cargo-Link.  The speakers addressed importing documentation and requirements, importing strategies, and advantages connected with using importing companies.

Holly Garza, an expert in importing, spoke of the importance of adhering to the Customs Modernization Act which includes categories such as the shared responsibility, informed compliance, and reasonable care.  She also shared information regarding general questions for all transactions as well as outlining the different requirements regarding air shipments and ocean shipments.  She also spoke about special programs with customs including the Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT).

Scott Ogden, President of Cargo-Link, addressed the panel about “the fine art of getting things here.” He explained that logistics is more than just a catchy song, it is a vital part of importing and exporting goods.  Scott discussed the major advantages of using freight forwarders, stating that the two biggest advantages to consumers are lower costs and more information.  Freight forwarders are able to answer the who, what, when, where and why questions, helping shipments clear customs timely and orderly.  He also spoke about how because of existing contracts and relationships with shipping companies, freight forwarders are able to ship for less and pass that saving to their customers.

The World Trade Association of Utah encourages international trade by facilitating networking and providing educational monthly events. Contact Abby at wtaofutah@gmail.com for more information.

Come join us on February 16th as we discuss international procurement and subcontracting with a panel of experts! The World Trade Association of Utah brings you this breakfast meeting and panel in partnership with various local businesses, institutions of learning, and individuals. This panel will consist of: Ralph Cutler, Vice President of WesTech Engineering, Inc., Elizabeth Goryunova, a World Bank Private Sector Liaison Officer and Executive Vice President of World Trade Center Utah, and Jonnie Wilkinson of PTAC (Procurement Technical Assistance Center), Regional Manager of South Salt Lake and Tooele counties.

We will discuss lessons learned and best practices for international procurement, and have an expert provide a general context of the multilateral procurement environment and opportunities for SMEs. In addition, we will discuss what PTAC (http://ptac.utah.gov/) does and how they can help SMEs pursue public procurement opportunities at the local, state, and federal levels (which can open doors internationally).

If you wish to attend or want to learn more, you can e-mail wtaofutah@gmail.com or look at our calendar event (http://www.wtaofutah.org/calendar/february-breakfast-meeting/). Hope to see you on February 16th!

Date: Thursday, February 16th
Time: 8:00-9:00 am (Registration begins at 7:30 am)
Place: Salt Lake Community College (9750 South 300 West, Sandy, UT) Miller Professional Development Center (MPDC), Room 213
Cost: $12–WTA of Utah Member / $15–Not a member of the WTA of Utah
RSVP: To wtaofutah@gmail.com by Mon., Feb. 13th