Despite the economic and political problems gripping the hemisphere, scores of opportunities are available for small and medium-size firms, as well as large companies, to boost their sales and profits. Drawing on the in-country expertise of US Department of Commerce Senior Commercial Officers (SCOs), private sector experts and academic consultants, this practical and information-packed event is indispensable for exporters, importers, freight forwarders, customs brokers, manufacturers and professional services providers. As an optional available feature, attendees can sign up for one-on-one meetings with SCOs working in the Americas.

Each year the US Department of Commerce conducts Outlook conferences featuring SCOs and other experts on the world’s major regions. In these uncertain times, nowhere else can such critical information be discussed candidly and with no holds barred. These popular conferences offer a unique opportunity, particularly to small and medium-size exporters (SMEs), for assistance with marketing strategies and one-on-one consultations with experts who can provide in-country support. Universities are a frequent venue for organizing Outlooks; the chance to host these conferences often leads to a competition, which bought the WHBO to Florida last in 1998. Florida International University (FIU) and a consortium of trade organizations are proud to announce the return of the Western Hemisphere Business Outlook to Miami in 2003.

A major focus of the conference will be to highlight the resources of the US Department of Commerce and its fellow trade agencies along with the personal expertise of 13 SCOs from posts throughout the Western Hemisphere. A panel of private sector experts will complement the SCO presentations to provide a full range of perspectives on the region's current and projected realities relevant to US exporters. Held during World Trade Week, WHBO will feature keynote remarks by high-level trade officials of the Bush administration.

To download the Conference Program including speakers bio's, click here