The U.S. Department of Commerce is putting together a trade mission to Mexico this fall for small businesses in the field of sustainable construction and building materials.
That includes U.S.-based companies that sell …
- Flooring, doors and other building components made with sustainable wood
- Environmentally friendly paints, coatings and coverings
- High-efficiency HVACR equipment, especially the kind designed for larger structures
- Ecologically sound concrete pipes
The application deadline for the trade mission is Sept. 1, and the trip will run Oct. 16-20. Its main focus will be on Mexico City, though companies also have the option to visit Guadalajara as part of the trip.
What Will the Trade Mission Include?
Participating companies will be invited to a briefing at the U.S. embassy in Mexico City, the Expo CIHAC trade show for the Mexican construction industry, networking events, prearranged “matchmaking” sessions with Mexican companies and market briefings delivered by U.S. embassy or consulate staff.
Mexico represents a big opportunity for U.S. companies. Our southern neighbor plans to spend $586 billion through 2018 on its National Infrastructure Program. Most of the work will be done through public-private partnerships, and that includes openings for U.S. businesses to win subcontracts or make direct sales to the Mexican government.
How Much Does Participating in the Trade Mission Cost?
A small or midsize company would have to pay $2,800 to participate in the trade mission, or $1,410 for the Mexico City-only version. By comparison, large companies and trade associations would have to pay $3,600 (or $1,800 for Mexico City only).
Sending additional team members would cost $400 to $700.
These prices do not include travel, lodging or meals. Those must be paid by the participating businesses.
