RICHMOND - The Virginia Economic Development Partnership’s (VEDP) Division of International Trade today announced plans to attend this year’s Shipbuilding, Machinery & Marine Technology (SMM) International Trade Show to promote the export of Virginia products and services. This show is the world’s largest trade exposition for the international shipping and shipbuilding industry. Held in Hamburg, Germany September 24-28, 2002, VEDP’s Division of International Trade is inviting Virginia companies in the shipbuilding industry to join the state at this trade show to seek export opportunities.

VEDP’s Division of International Trade is soliciting participation as part of its mission to assist Virginia businesses in developing new market opportunities for exporting. For a fee of $500, Virginia companies will have entry to the show with VEDP, pre-arranged meetings with potential customers and on-site translation services. Other benefits include a company profile in the official show program translated into three languages and full use of the USA Pavilion to hold meetings with customers. Participating companies must cover their own travel expenses. 

With 1,300 exhibitors from 60 countries, SMM 2002 will be Virginia’s first effort to promote exports at this world-renowned international trade show held annually in Hamburg. VEDP expects many of the Virginia companies who attend will receive orders, acquire major contracts, receive requests for price quotations, and make contacts for future export sales. 

To learn more about the show, visit www.hamburg-messe.de/SMM. For information on accompanying VEDP to SMM 2002, contact Joe Adams, VEDP International Trade Manager, at (757) 314-2358.

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership, a marketing organization, 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 within the Commonwealth, the Partnership focuses its efforts on business development and international trade. VEDP has offices in Virginia, Germany, Hong Kong, Mexico, Brazil, Korea and Japan.

Press Contact(s)

Ellen Qualls
www.governor.virginia.gov
(804) 225-3048
Jill Vaughan
VEDP
(804) 371-0049