VEDP hires experienced consultant to assist in state's export development efforts
Richmond - Governor Gilmore today announced that the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) has appointed André Neufeld as its new Virginia trade representative in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Mr. Neufeld will work with VEDP to develop new trade relationships between Virginian and South American companies. The office will join VEDP's operating trade offices in Frankfurt, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Seoul, and Mexico City. The Governor first announced Virginia's new presence in Brazil during his 13-day trade mission to South America last spring.
"After examining the marketplace in Brazil, I am confident that Virginia will benefit by placing an experienced trade representative there," Governor Gilmore said. "The prospects for Virginia exporters are excellent in Brazil throughout the next decade, and I look forward to strengthening Virginia's trade relationship with this country."
André Neufeld has served as a marketing professional in Brazil and the U.S. for 24 years. He has worked for several multinational companies representing a variety of industries including manufacturing, telecommunications, electronics, chemicals, pharmaceuticals and food products. He also developed research studies on international trade markets for the U.S. Department of Commerce. Fluent in four languages, Mr. Neufeld earned his MBA from Concordia University in Montreal, Canada in 1976.
Brazil is the number one destination in South America for Virginia exports. Also, Virginia is the number one port for Brazil on the East Coast. Nearly 90 percent of Brazilian automotive parts destined for the U.S. go through Virginia, and nearly 75 percent of U.S. automotive parts consigned for Brazil move through the Port of Virginia.
The Virginia Economic Development Partnership was created by the Virginia General Assembly in 1995 to encourage, stimulate, and support the development and expansion of the economy of the Commonwealth. The Partnership is a state authority, which is governed by a 15-member Board of Directors appointed by the Governor. To accomplish its objectives of promoting economic expansion, the Partnership focuses its efforts on business development and international trade.
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