Governor Talks Trade at World Affairs Council Breakfast

Press Release

Governor Talks Trade at World Affairs Council Breakfast

Governor John E. Baldacci gave an enthusiastic endorsement this morning to the role that trade missions play in boosting Maine business. The Governor spoke about the recent trade mission to Canada, as well as previous trade missions, while addressing the Governor's International Breakfast.

"The type of business model that includes international trade is usually a successful business model," Governor Baldacci said. "The Maine International Trade Center is a valuable resource for Maine business and Maine people. I am excited by the business opportunities that have been - and continue to be - generated by trade missions."

The Maine International Trade Center conducted a trade mission to Canada in November. Twelve Maine companies participated in the trade mission to Vancouver and Toronto. About $6.5 million in sales have been generated so far. Governor Baldacci paid his own way to participate in meetings held in Toronto as a part of the trade mission. He said that the feedback from Maine businesses has been very positive, just as it has been for previous trade missions.

"This mission was an important step in strengthening existing linkages and creating trade opportunities between Maine, British Columbia and Ontario," the Governor said. "These were unchartered territories for many of our companies and the feedback we have been getting from their matchmaking meetings is impressive."

The Governor continued, "Whether it was US Windblade servicing alternative energy systems in wind and ocean energy, or more traditional products such as lobsters or LaBree's baked goods, each of our companies found opportunities in these markets for future collaborations and sales."

Carl Spang, President and CEO of Falcon Performance Footwear in Lewiston participated in the trade mission to Canada. Spang spoke about joining the trade mission to Canada at Tuesday morning's breakfast, saying it was a very successful experience and money well spent by his company.

The Canadian Consul General to New England Neil Le Blanc, and the President and CEO of TD Bank Bharat Masrani also spoke at the annual breakfast, which was presented by the World Affairs Council of Maine and the Maine International Trade Center.

The Maine International Trade Center is currently planning a trade mission to Dubai and the United Arab Emirates for February of 2009.

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