Local companies wanting to expand internationally and those that are seeking international investment partners are being encouraged to attend upcoming information sessions by the province's nine international trade and investment representatives.
The provincial representatives will be in Prince George next week to meet with local companies, municipal officials and organizations interested in doing business in overseas markets.
They will offer advice about expanding into and establishing a presence internationally and provide overviews of current country-specific market conditions.
The trade representatives, who work out of China, the European Union, India, Japan, Korea, and California, will be in town on Monday, May 30 and Tuesday, May 31.
They will also inform participants about the services they and the provincial government offer to local businesses.
One-on-one meetings are also being arranged along with a business networking breakfast with regional development officers.
The breakfast networking event and one-on-one meetings will take place on Tuesday May 31. Contact Melissa Mills at 250- 649-3206 or [email protected] no later than May 26 to reserve one of the limited spaces.
The representatives' visit to the Northern Capital is being co-organized by Initiatives Prince George and the B.C. Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation.
"Exporting is vital to the economic health of our province, and helping businesses learn how to expand their markets overseas is one way to create jobs for families here in northern B.C.," said Pat Bell, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation, MLA Prince George - Mackenzie. "By sending the trade reps to B.C.'s regions, we're making it easier for local businesses to learn about new opportunities and services."
Tim McEwan, president and CEO of Initiatives Prince George, said he's heard local businesses express interest in expanding internationally.
"Prince George and northern communities are increasingly focused on growing international trade and investment," he said. "This event will enhance our ability to promote opportunities in transportation and logistics, resource development, industrial land development and other sectors to investors in B.C's key international markets."
B.C.'s international trade representatives are in the province from May 23 to June 5 meeting and working with businesses and officials from about a dozen communities.
The provincial government has trade and investment professionals will help companies with:
International market intelligence and trade leads to help companies sell products and services overseas.
Advice on developing marketing strategy and cross-cultural business practices.
Connecting with key industry, government and community influencers.
Seminars and training on exporting and international markets.
Organizing and supporting trade missions, exhibitions and conferences in B.C. and abroad.
