World Trade WV

Trade Shows and Missions

There are a wide range of opportunities for companies to explore new export markets, either on your own or with the assistance of the State of West Virginia. The West Virginia Development Office sponsors trade missions, in cooperation with the U.S. Commercial Service and West Virginia Export Council, providing companies customized service to help them identify potential agents or customers in new markets. The WVDO also organizes a West Virginia pavilion at many international trade shows.

Upcoming West Virginia Events (2007)

  • Furnitek/WoodBuild Shanghai
    March 18-23

    Hardwood lumber, dimension and veneer companies are invited to participate in the US Pavilion at this major Chinese furniture and building products trade show. Companies have the option of reserving their own booth space at a subsidized rate, or sending their company literature for display in the Hardwood States Export Group booth, which will be staffed by a Hardwood States Export Group member.
  • Trade Mission to China
    Shanghai, Beijing, Taiyuan City(Shanxi Province) April (tentative)

    This trade mission is open to all industries, and best prospects include coal mining equipment, construction equipment, education and training, machinery, power generation, medical equipment, water and wastewater treatment, safety and security, and banking technology. In addition to an individual schedule of pre-screened and pre-qualified appointments with business prospects in Shanghai and Beiijing, delegation members with good business prospects will travel to Taiyuan City for additional site visits and business meetings. Shanxi Province is very similar to West Virginia in its geography and industrial base, and is the largest coal-producing province in China.
  • Trade Mission to Mexico
    Monterrey & Mexico City
    June 4-8 (tentative)

    The United States accounts for nearly 75% of total Mexican trade, and Mexico has become the United States’ second largest trading partner since NAFTA began. Mexico’s size and diversity are often underappreciated by U.S. exporters. It can be difficult to find a single distributor or agent to cover this vast market. With the overwhelming amount of trade between the United States and Mexico, there are abundant opportunities for U.S. firms there. Some of the most promising sectors include automotive parts, housing and construction equipment, travel and tourism services, plastic materials and resins, energy technologies and services, environmental technology and equipment, and education and training services.
  • Trade Mission to South Africa
    Johannesburg
    August 13-17

    South Africa’s market size, infrastructure, and pro-business environment make it a logical choice for companies seeking a stepping stone to conduct business on the African continent. It is the most advanced, broad-based and productive economy in Africa, characterized by standards similar to those found in developed countries. The best prospects for exports to South Africa include airport/ground support equipment, safety/security equipment, medical equipment, pollution control equipment, and mining equipment. Companies participating in this mission may also visit Afriwater, South Africa’s International Water, Waste and Environmental Exhibition.
  • Wood Products Mission to India
    Mumbia, Bangalore, New Dehli
    September 19-29

    In cooperation with the Hardwood States Export Group, this trade mission will build upon the successful IndiaWood 2006 trade show in Bangalore. The Indian market is expected to grow slowly but significantly for the U.S. hardwood industry. By establishing relationships early in this process, American companies will be well positioned and known as trade barriers are removed. The mission will include hardwood companies from the United States traveling to three cities in India for one-on-one business meetings and site visits to primary and secondary wood product suppliers.
  • China Coal & Mining Exhibition
    Beijing
    November 3-10

    China has abundant mineral resources, with more than 1,000 billion tons of coal reserves, and is one of the major mining countries in the world. In the coming years, China will concentrate on adopting more advanced technologies and equipment, expanding cooperation with foreign enterprises in order to improve recovery and utilization rates, and reducing resource waste and contamination and strengthening environmental protection for the mining industry. Held every 2 years, the China Coal & Mining exhibition is one of the best ways to enter the Chinese market.
  • Trade Mission to Australia
    Sydney & Perth
    November 10-17

    Australia has the world’s most resilient economy and, as a result, has had fifteen years of uninterrupted economic growth. Australia is rich in a wide breadth of mineral and energy resources ranging from gold and iron ore to natural gas and coal. For American companies, Australia’s appeal is compelling: few barriers to entry, a familiar legal and corporate framework, sophisticated consumer and industrial demand, and a straightforward business culture. The top sectors from U.S. exports include construction machinery, information technology services, medical equipment, mining industry equipment, pollution control equipment, safety and security. Companies participating in this mission will have individual business appointments in both Sydney and Perth.

Completed West Virginia Events