The Deputy Sector Navigator for Global Trade & Logistics - San Diego & Imperial (DSN-GTL) and the CITD recently released a report from it's employer engagement event held in April. 

The April meeting, convened by the DSN-GTL and the CITD, brought representatives of local companies involved in international trade and community college educators together to determine existing workplace needs, future trends for the industry, and existing and potential partnerships between education and training programs
and industry.

This report summarizes the results of the polls and discussions from the meeting as well as from the surveys sent to industry employers that were not able to attend.

Click here to view the report.

Every year since 1997, SANDAG has organized a Binational Conference to address a variety of border related issues. This year, SANDAG's conference, titled "Efficient Border: A Globally Competitive Region" focused on how an efficient border and increased regional collaboration will contribute to improve the global competitiveness of the region. The event was hosted at Southwestern College's Higher Education Center in Otay Mesa and featured discussions and presentations that explored strategies to leverage the region's competitive advantage for success in the global marketplace.

Presentations from the event and event agenda are available here.

The University of San Diego (USD) hosted a seminar on academic and career success for students of Chula Vista Learning Community Charter High School. The seminar, held at USD's campus in Linda Vista, featured a keynote address by Sim�n Silva, a well-known artist, author, and speaker, who spoke about creativity as no longer a word reserved exclusively for artists, but an essential 21st century skill.

The seminar also included several breakout sessions, including one by Deputy Sector Navigator for Global Trade & Logistics/CITD Director, Victor Castillo, and Director of International Business Development for Grupo Logisitcs, Allen Vigil. This breakout session focused on international trade career paths and positions in the areas of Supply Chain Management, Logistics, and Operations Management, as well as educational programs, such as the Southwestern College International Logistics and Transportation Certificate/Degree Program that can help prepare students for jobs in this field.

Additional breakout sessions covered topics including selecting a college, financial literacy, importance of culture and diversity, leadership development, and more. 

Over the last 25 years, the Otay Mesa Chamber of Commerce has organized what has become the region's premier industrial trade show. Known as MEXPORT, the trade show's goal is to facilitate this cross-border trade by promoting supplier opportunities with major manufacturers in the Southern California/Baja California region. MEXPORT 2014 drew more than 180 exhibitors spanning everything from industrial equipment companies to freight forwarders and customs brokers from both sides of the border.

The trade show was kicked off with an inauguration ceremony with opening remarks from Alejandra Mier y Teran, Executive Director of the Otay Mesa Chamber of Commerce and additional special guests including newly elected Mayor of San Diego, Kevin Faulconer, SBA San Diego District Director, Ruben Garcia, and Consul General of Mexico in San Diego, Maria de los Remedios Gomez Arnau, Santiago Fernandez, Director of Sales and Marketing for Smurfit Kappa, and Chris Hammer, Fleet Sales Manager for Supreme Oil Co. 2B Fueled.

Continue reading...

Join the San Diego CITD at the U.S. Small Business Administration, San Diego Regional Office, Awards Breakfast on June 11, 2014. The awards event, held every year by the SBA, serves to recognize small businesses that have persevered and succeeded and those who advocate for small businesses.

Among the local businesses that will be recognized is Julian Hard Cider, who won for Small Business Exporter of the Year for both the San Diego District and SBA Region IX.

The event will be held at the Town & Country Hotel in Mission Valley from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM. Cost to attend is $50 per person or $600 to sponsor a table. 

For more information, click here. 

Agencia de Proyectos Baja along with cycling groups and associations in Baja California have teamed up to create the first edition of Expo Ciclismo 2014. Companies invited to participate as exhibitors are: bicycle manufacturers, replacement parts makers, uniforms and specialized clothing suppliers and cycling accessories suppliers. According to show organizers, the event will bring together approximately 200 exhibitors and 5,000 attendees. Conferences, workshops and outdoor activities have also been added to the expo's program.

Expo Ciclismo will be held on Saturday July 12th and Sunday July 13th at the Centro Metropolitano de Convenciones BC CENTER. More information about this event here.

If you have questions or would like assistance with registering for this event, contact us at (619) 482-6393 or support@sandiegocitd.org

Given our border relationship and long-lasting historical, cultural and economic ties, Mexico is a natural partner to further expand two-way trade and investment, and strengthen cooperation on global climate change. Delegates will visit with high ranking officials in Mexico City, tour California companies and projects in Mexico, and lead events to promote California to potential Mexican investors.

A participation fee of $5,000 covers delegate expenses for the four days in Mexico including transportation, meals, interpreters, events, and programs throughout Mexico City (excluding hotel and air travel).

You are invited to apply to join the delegation. If you have any questions, and to return Delegate Application, please contact the International Affairs Department at the California Chamber of Commerce at international@calchamber.com or (916) 444-6670.

For additional information, click here.

The San Diego Center for International Trade Development (CITD) assists small and medium-sized enterprises expand internationally by providing low and no-cost programs and services including, one-on-one technical assistance and consulting, market research, training and educational programs, trade leads and special events.

International trade counseling is available by appointment at the following San Diego CITD Locations: