International business dialogue focuses on US markets

© Dmitriy Shironosov – 123RF.com

The well-attended event was held at Garlicke & Bousfield's Umhlanga Ridge offices, and focussed on the reasons for looking first to US markets to expand trade and pursue investment opportunities.

Guest speaker for the evening, Frances Chisholm, the US Consul-General, provided guidance to KZN businesses looking to expand their current footprint in the United States and debated other products and business opportunities that are currently untapped. She provided an insightful analysis of the import and export data available, revealing the extent to which KZN's interest in the US market is steadily growing.

Pioneer project

These business dialogues form part of the DCCI and Garlicke & Bousfield's joint pioneer project, launched last year, to encourage international business activity in Durban. The project aims to assist local businesses with international market access, providing relevant, reliable information to SMMEs, and improving business skills to enhance the competitiveness of South African businesses globally.

"We sincerely value this opportunity to effectively give back to the communities in which we operate and to do something positive in order to grow business here," said Brian Jennings, CEO of Garlicke & Bousfield.

"These meetings not only deliver valuable information, they also provide local businesses with a platform to share 'war stories' of business dealings beyond the borders of South Africa and, in so doing, learn lessons from each other that will help them survive the challenges of operating in the global market place," Jennings said.