May 15, 2012

Christopher Blaha is a Senior International Economist within the Office of Trade and Policy Analysis and Julie Anglin is the Colombia Desk Officer within the International Trade Administration.

Today more than 80 percent of U.S. exports of consumer and industrial products to Colombia become duty-free as part of the U.S. – Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement. This includes agricultural and construction equipment, building products, aircraft and parts, fertilizers, information technology equipment, medical scientific equipment, and wood. Also, more than half of U.S. exports of agricultural commodities to Colombia become duty-free, including wheat, barley, soybeans, high-quality beef, bacon, and almost all fruit and vegetable products.

In less than two months, an organization focused on exporting and international
trade has doubled in size.  The International Traders of IowaEastern
Iowa Chapter formed late last year and held an official kickoff reception on
Feb. 7.

Mark Szakony, Associate Editor
Apr 16, 2012 7:29 PM GMTM

The United States and Canada are staunch allies, vital economic partners, and steadfast friends. We share common values, deep links among our citizens, and deeply rooted ties. The extensive mobility of people, goods, capital, and information between our two countries has helped ensure that our societies remain open, democratic, and prosperous.

FORT DODGE, Iowa — The Iowa Small Business Development Centers is proud to congratulate Lisa Shimkat, North Central Iowa SBDC Regional Director, on being the first Iowa SBDC counselor to earn the Small Business Administration Export Counselor Certification. Shimkat completed a five-part coursework covering the key aspects of global trade and successfully passed the exam for competency in international trade and export assistance. Shimkat also holds the SBA Certified Business Advisor credential.