Alliance 27

United States - Mexico Chamber of Commerce Binational Business Magazine

Dallas Fort Worth

Year / Año 16 // Nº 27 // USA $4.00 // MEX $ 45.00

Gateway to the World

POLICIES AND DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES Infrastructure Driving Mexico’s Development Improving and Strengthening Transportation Between U.S. and Mexico

ANALYSIS

THE INTERVIEW

Mexico: Logistics and Transport Platform of The World

José Zozaya, President Kansas City Southern de México Juan Pablo Vega Arriaga, VP of Shipbuilding in the Mexican Chamber of Maritime Transport Industry

EDITORIAL COUNCIL UNITED STATES MEXICO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Albert C. Zapanta,

President & CEO, Binational Headquarters;

EDITORIAL

Francisco López Espinoza,

CEO, Grupo Gráfico Multicolor; Eric Rojo, Vice-President/ Mexico Liaison; Joseph R. Chapa, Vice-President, International Trade Development Centers; Gabriela Kenny, Director of Communications; Cecilia López, Publishing Manager; and Jill Martínez, Editor.

PUBLISHING COORDINATORS Executive Director PROMEXE Rafael López Rivera rafa.lopez@multicolorig.com Director of Communications Gabriela Kenny gabriela.kenny@usmcoc.org Publishing Manager Cecilia López ceci.lopez@usmcoc.org

CONCEPT & MAGAZINE DESIGN Editorial Coordinator Cecilia López ceci.lopez@usmcoc.org PRGNRS branding / advertising / interactive Graphic Designers Israel de la Fuente if@prgnrs.com Christopher Jareño cj@prgnrs.com Alejandra Rodríguez ar@prgnrs.com

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Joseph Chapa Marianna Rossell Pete Garcia Luis Morris Ruth Martinez Sergio Ponce Maricela Gonzalez Nick Ortiz Claudia Vidal Teresa Reyes Josie Orosco

PRINTED BY

For advertising inquiries, contact: Rafael López rafa.lopez@multicolorig.com Executive Director PROMEXE Gabriela Kenny gabriela.kenny@usmcoc.org Director of Communications Cecilia López ceci.lopez@usmcoc.org Publishing Manager

ALLIANCE, revista cuatrimestral. Agosto 2016 / noviembre 2016.- Publicación de la Camara de Comercio México Estados Unidos y Promotora Mexicana de Ediciones, S.A. DE C.V. (PROMEXE). Editor Responsable: Francisco Javier López Espinoza. Número de Certificado de Reserva otorgado por el Instituto Nacional del Derecho de Autor: 04-2013-071518324800-102.

Número de Certificado de Licitud de Título y Contenido: 16157. Domicilio de la Publicación: José María Chávez #3408-A. Cd. Industrial. C.P. 20290.

Aguascalientes., Ags. Imprenta: Multicolor Gran Formato S.A. de C.V. José María Chávez #3408. Cd. Industrial. C.P. 20290. Aguascalientes., Ags. Distribuidor, PROMEXE José María Chávez # 3408-A. Cd. Industrial. C.P. 20290.

Aguascalientes., Ags. Camara de Comercio Mexico Estados Unidos, 5510 Cherokee Ave. Ste. 120, Alexandria, VA 22313-2320. Mailing address: P.O. Box 14414, Washington, D.C. 20044.

Printed by Multicolor Gran Formato, S.A. de C.V. Av. Jose Maria Chavez No. 3408, Ciudad Industrial; Aguascalientes, Ags., Mex. Specifications: Total production, 3,000 units; covers: couche paper 135 grs; Varnish UV. Interiors: couche paper 135 grs. Impression: offset full color.

The views expressed in this magazine are the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily reflect official positions of the U.S.-Mexico Chamber of Commerce, its members or supporters. Our goal is to present a broad range of perspectives on shared bilateral issues.

Dear Friends, Dallas/Fort Worth region boasts an extraordinary airport with operations that rank third worldwide, and routes to 209 destinations. I believe all of you appreciate the advantages of counting on reliable connections and travel services, not only for personal travel, but for transportation of goods and merchandise. It’s worth mentioning that from DFW you will have access to every major city in the continental U.S. within three to four hours.

In this edition we take a closer look at this matter, and dedicate these pages to reflect on transportation and logistics challenges and opportunities between Mexico and the U.S. We present what the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, and the Dallas/ Fort Worth Metroplex have to offer as a transportation and logistics hubs, and further the discussion by presenting you the views of key players in the transportation, supply chain and logistic services.

Among the collaborators of this edition are our friends, the Secretary of Communications and Transportation of Mexico, Gerardo Ruiz Esparza; Deputy Secretary for the U.S. Department of Transportation, Victor Mendez; Director General of Mexican Customs, Ricardo Treviño Chapa; and Dr. José Zozaya, President and Executive Representative of Kansas City Southern de México, and Chairman of the USMCOC Board.

All of their articles conclude that there are many opportunities for improvement in the operation of the supply chain logistics and transportation services in all their aspects: air and railroad, maritime, border crossing points, highways and border trucking, along with general infrastructure.

Trade is only increasing and there is no time to waste —especially considering the advancement of Mexico’s energy and telecommunications reform, and other factors such as the

expansion of the Panama Canal that is certain to increase trade between Texas and Mexico, and recent investments in Mexico on important industries such as automotive.

In our member highlights, we offer you a glimpse of Grupo Salinas, a great company that has been a longtime member of the USMCOC, and you will also find information here on our recent activities, including a recount on this year’s Board of Directors Meeting, Conference and the Good Neighbor Awards Gala that took place last May in Washington D.C. We had the honor to present the Good Neighbor Award to Jeh C. Johnson, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, Emilio Gonzalez, Executive Director for Strategic Alliances at Verizon Communications; Marcos Jimenez, CEO of Softtek North America, and to have the presence of Ambassador Carlos M. Sada Solana, who delivered the opening remarks, in his first public appearance as Ambassador of Mexico in the U.S. Finally, special thanks to our contributors and sponsors for your support to make this edition possible, and we look forward to seeing you all in our future events in Las Colinas-Irving, Texas, Puebla and Mexico City.

Un abrazo,

Albert Zapanta President & CEO

CHAPTER OFFICES / CAPÍTULO DE OFICINAS

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CONTENTS

04

18

BINATIONAL EVENT

EVENTO BINACIONAL

CHAPTER OFFICES

42

POLICIES AND DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES

OFICINAS DEL CAPÍTULO

POLÍTICAS Y ESTRATEGIAS DE DESARROLLO

06 BRIEFS BREVES

08

22 COVER

PORTADA

Dfw Airport / Dallas City

UPDATES

LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT LIDERAZGO Y GERENCIA

INTERVIEW/ ENTREVISTA

José Zozaya / Juan Pablo Vega Arriaga

68

MEMBER HIGHLIGHTS

ACTUALIZACIÓN

12

58

MIEMBROS DESTACADOS

50

70

UPCOMING EVENTS / PRÓXIMOS EVENTOS

ANALYSIS

30

Chapter Activities

ACTIVIDADES DEL CAPÍTULO

ANÁLISIS

72

NEW MEMBERS /

NUEVOS MIEMBROS

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PROVEEMOS SOLUCIONES ADECUADAS PARA EL BENEFICIO DE SU ACTIVIDAD ECONÓMICA. SERVICIO EN USA

SERVICIO EN MÉXICO

Registro Contable (Bookkeeping)

Registro y Asesoría Contable (Accounting and Business Consulting)

Creación de compañias en todo USA (Bussines Creation)

Asesoría Fiscal y Financiera (Tax and Financial Consulting)

Certificado de exención Texas para Efecto de Exportación (Texas Sales Tax Export Exemption)

Defensa Fiscal (Fiscal Lawyer) Auditorías para Fines Fiscales - SHCP, IMSS, INFONAVIT (Tax Audits)

Solicitud y Trámites de EIN (Filing for an EIN) Nómina (Payroll)

Terceración y Administración de Nómina (Outsourcing and Payroll Administration)

Impuestos Personales (Personal Tax)

Capacitación Empresarial (Bussiness Training)

Impuestos Corporativos (Corporate Tax)

Precios de Transferencia (Transfer Pricing)

Tratado para evitar la Doble Tributación entre México y USA (Double Tax Agreement) Precios de Transferencia (Transfer Pricing)

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CHAPTER OFFICES

THE AMBASSADOR OF GOOD BUSINESS www.usmcoc.org

Albert Zapanta

President & CEO Binational Office 6800 Versar Center Dr. Suite 450 Springfield VA 2215 zapantaz@usmcoc.org (469) 567-0921 F: (703) 642-1088

Joseph R. Chapa

Vice President Western Region, Executive Director, Trade Development and Assistant Center jrchapa@usmcoc.org (469) 567-0922 F: (703) 642-1088

California Regional Chapter Los Angeles, CA JUDITH A. WILSON President MARLEN MARROQUIN Executive Director 1800 Century Park East Suite 300 Los Angeles, CA 90067 (310) 598-4188 marlen@usmcocca.org Inter-American Chapter Miami, FL DAVID B. ROSEMBERG President RUTH MARTINEZ Executive Director 2 S. Biscayne Blvd 21st Floor, Suite 2100, Miami, FL 33131 (786) 631-4179 interamerican@usmcocfl.org Inter-Mountain Chapter, Salt Lake City, Utah KEITH ATKINSON Executive Director DANIEL LEIFSON Assistant Executive Director 1123 Sandtrap Circle North Salt Lake City Utah, 84054 (801) 200 4714 keithjatkinson@yahoo.com International Trade Development and Assistance Center JOSEPH R. CHAPA Executive Director 207 Mandalay Canal Irving, TX 75039 (469) 567-0922 jrchapa@usmcoc.org Washington, D.C. Office Mid-Atlantic Chapter PRISCILLA ZOZAYA Coordinator 6800 Vesar Center Dr., Suite 450 Springfield, VA 22151 pzozaya@usmcoc.com (202)714-6564 (703) 752-4751

Alejandro Ramos

Vice President Eastern Region Executive Director of Northeast Chapter alejandro@usmcocne.org (212) 471-4703 F: (212) 471-4701

Mid-America Chapter Chicago, IL GERY CHICO President TERESA REYES Executive Director Blue Cross Blue Shield Building 300 E. Randolph Dr. 47th floor Chicago, Il 60601 (312) 729-1355 / (312) 729-1356 F: (312) 729 1354 teresa.reyes@usmcoc.org Northeast Chapter New York, NY EDUARDO RAMOS-GÓMEZ President ALEJANDRO RAMOS Executive Director 1540 Broadway, Suite 1400 New York, NY. 10036-4086 (212) 471-4703 F: (212) 471-4701 alejandro@usmcocne.org Pacific Northwest Chapter Seattle, WA LUIS MORRIS VELARDE President 800 5th Ave. #101-260 Seattle,WA 98104-3102 (425) 320-3844 lmorris@usmcocnw.org Southwest Chapter Dallas, TX VINCENT CHAPA President JOSIE OROSCO Executive Director 901 Main Street, 44th. Floor Dallas, TX 75202 (214) 651-4300 / (817) 881 0264 F: (214) 747 1994 swusmx@netzero.com Houston-The Woodlands-Gulf Coast Chapter, Houston, TX JULIE CHARROS-BETANCOR President PETE GARCIA Executive Director 4582 Kingwood Dr Suite E-334 Kingwood, TX 77345 (713) 854-1577 pete@chambergc.org

Gabriela Kenny

Director of Communications North American Headquarters 207 Mandalay Canal Irving, TX 75039 gabriela.kenny@usmcoc.org (469) 567-0923 F: (703) 642-1088

Aguascalientes Chapter Aguascalientes, Ags. JAIME DEL CONDE UGARTE President RODOLFO RODRÍGUEZ CASILLAS Executive Director Av. Independencia 1602 Col. Fátima Aguascalientes, Ags. (449) 914-6863 y (449) 153-3553 Golfo Chapter Veracruz, Ver. ANDRES QUIALA President Simon Bolivar no. 705. casi esquina con España.

Despacho 3 Colonia Zaragoza C.P. 91910 Veracruz, Ver. México (229) 937-0598 F: (229) 100-3857 aquiala@usmcoc.org Guanajuato Chapter León, Gto. ANTONIO VARGAS NAVARRO President SERGIO PONCE LÓPEZ Executive Director Blvd. Campestre No. 1215, Int. 12 Col. Panorama León, Gto. 37160 (477) 779-5670 sergio.ponce@usmcoc.org Michoacán Chapter Morelia, Mich.

NICK ORTIZ President LUCY CHÁVEZ Executive Director usmcocmich2@gmail.com Melo 166-B Morelia Michoacan C.P. 58000 (443) 353-2927

Catherine Brockette

Executive Director of U.S.-Mexico Cultural and Educational Foundation catherine.brockette@usmcef.org (469) 567-0924

Noreste Chapter Monterrey, N.L. DR. ERIC W. GUSTAFSON President ROBERTO FUERTE Executive Director Av. Fundidora No. 501.

Edificio Cintermex P.B. Local 114 Col. Obrera Monterrey, N.L. 64010 (81) 8191-7800 rfuerte@usmcocmtymx.org rfuerte@gmail.com Pacífico Chapter Guadalajara, Jal. FRANCISCO CASTELLANOS President CHRISTOPHER BRICIO VP Strategic Sectors Av. Prolongación Americas 1600, Piso 2 Col. Country Club Guadalajara 44610 Jalisco, Mexico (33) 1813-1400 pacifico@usmcoc.org Puebla Chapter Puebla, Pue. FERNANDO A. TREVIÑO President VIDAUR MORA Executive Director 31 Poniente No. 4128 9º Piso Letra A Col. Ampliación Reforma Puebla, Pue. 72160 (222) 249-8828 F: 222) 249-2361 puebla@usmcocpue.org Querétaro Chapter Querétaro, Qro. MÓNICA LÓPEZ Trade Representative queretaro@usmcoc.org Valle de México Chapter Mexico City JOSE GARCIA TORRES President CLAUDIA VIDAL Executive Director Av. Insurgentes Sur 1605 Torre Mural, Piso 25, Mod. 3 Col. San José Insurgentes Benito Juárez, 03900. México, D.F. (55) 5662-6103 F: (55) 5683-2700 c_vidal@usmcoc.org

U.S.A. info@estafetausa.com 1 866 518 6600 713 218 6600

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BRIEFS / BREVES

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Volkswagen regroups in North America

W

hen Audi begins production this year in Puebla, San José Chiapa, it will kick into gear a new regional inbound logistics system for the Volkswagen Group. The NAR network­­—a collaboration across logistics purchasing and planning teams at VW de Mexico, Audi Mexico and VW Group Logistics—uses third-party logistics (3PL) to manage supplier collections across Mexico, the U.S. and Canada for combined delivery to group plants in Mexico. In the future, VW plans to bring its plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee in to the NAR network. http://bit.ly/VWMexico_AL2016 and http://bit.ly/AudiMexico_AL

Shining a light in Veracruz

T

he VW Group is also seeing major changes at Veracruz, as Audi joins VW there for exports. Even as volumes are set to increase, however, VW will lose a covered garage it has had at the port for 30 years, moving instead to Veracruz’s crowded yard space. In addition, OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) will no longer be able to store cars indefinitely at the port without paying fees. In support of these changes, VW is installing lighting in both the port and its Puebla plant to enable adding a night shift for rail loading and unloading. http://bit.ly/VWMexico_FVL2016

Ford’s centre of supply chain gravity

A

long with tax and land incentives, logistics was very much behind Ford Motor Company’s decision to build an assembly plant in San Luis Potosi.

Ford Mexico president Gabriel López described the location as the “centre of gravity” for the Mexican supply base, and pointed to its good railway links to the U.S. The plant will be built close to an existing strategic crossdock that consolidates Mexican material bound for international Ford plants and receives international material for its Mexican production. López suggested the site could be expanded. http://bit.ly/FordMexico_AL

Source: Automotive Logistics Christopher Ludwig, group editor

Peso Trac is the 3rd most traded ETF

on the Mexican Stock Exchange

A

fter a little over a year of being listed, the Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) of Quanta Shares, DollarTrac and Peso Trac, are experiencing a strong growth in volume. They track the daily return of the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and the Mexican peso.

In short, if you believe the dollar will appreciate against the peso, you may invest in DólarTrac. On the contrary, if you believe that the peso will revaluate against the dollar, Peso Trac is the financial instrument you want to use.

You may buy shares of DólarTrac and Peso Trac through any broker/dealer in Mexico.

SUPPORTING CROSS-BORDER BUSINESS GARDERE HAS BEEN PROVIDING ITS CLIENTS WITH SEAMLESS REPRESENTATION ACROSS BORDERS FOR OVER 20 YEARS. Our award-winning Mexico and Latin America Practice, now operating in Mexico as Gardere, Arena y Asociados, S.C., represents U.S., European and Pacific Rim clients with business and investment opportunities into Mexico and advises Mexican private and publicly traded corporations in domestic and international matters.

Our lawyers also represent clients involved in domestic and cross-border disputes. Our core focus includes corporate, energy, environmental, financial services, hospitality, international arbitration and disputes, intellectual property, labor and employment, litigation, mergers and acquisitions, real estate, tax and transportation.

Gardere’s strength and success have been achieved through the combination of comprehensive resources of a large law firm with the expertise of over 230 lawyers in 40 distinct practice areas.

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UPDATE / ACTUALIZACIONES

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The Mexican Stock Exchange Bets on Mexico’s Infrastructure The Mexican Stock Exchange has designed two instruments which link investors’ financial resources with corporate infrastructure developments and real estate projects. CKDs and FIBRAS actively contribute to the financial growth of Mexico.

I

nfrastructure development is one of the major topics consistently permeating the Mexican stock market. Companies focused on this sector have developed products to enhance their projects which has motivated the Mexican Stock Exchange to develop two products that allow investors to participate in corporate plans like Certificates of Capital Development (CKDs), which are available within the capital segment.

These products support infrastructure, entrepreneurial and private capital projects. CKDs are issued by trusts that direct investment resources to growing sectors and activities which, in turn, adds flexibility and new diversifying alternatives to portfolios for institutional and qualified investors.

CKDs are designed to boost infrastructure projects such as roads, airports, ports, railroads, potable water and electric power, as well as develop real estate, mining and technology projects. Once CKDs reach maturity, they may provide options to re-

alize their investment in the stock market either through the issue of shares, FIBRAS or other securities instruments.

The first CKD was issued by the Mexican Stock Exchange in 2009. Since then, 66 CKDs have been issued, which amount to $4.6 billion. Issuances are distributed as follows: Real estate - 29.5 percent Private capital - 24.7 percent Infrastructure projects - 23.7 percent Energy - 11.9 percent Financial assets placement - 10.2 percent

Market FIBRAS The second instrument available to investors is the FIBRAS (Fideicomiso de Inversión en Bienes Raíces, an REIT or Real Estate Investment Trust) which the Mexican Stock Exchange launched in 2011 with the intention of providing the real estate market with an instrument aimed at financing purchases and development. The real estate sector is considered part of the

Information provided by the Corporate Communications Department of the BMV Group (Bolsa Mexicana de Valores), the Mexican Stock Exchange. Direct email to bmv-comunicacion@grupobmv.com.mx.

urban infrastructure, therefore, the aim of the Mexican Stock Exchange in implementing FIBRAS is to drive real estate development in Mexico, which in turn drives financing for different business, industrial and office segments, among others.

There are currently 10 FIBRAS listed in the Mexican Stock Exchange. Sixteen issuances have been placed since 2011, amounting to $7.4 billion.

This instrument is a novelty in Mexico and Latin America, which positions it as a new class of asset linking investments in the financial and the infrastructure sectors through the Mexican Stock Exchange.

In Summary CKDs and FIBRAS are a solid alternative to help grow the Mexican infrastructure.

The Mexican Stock Exchange has been— and will remain—a fundamental support for the financial development of the country.

UPDATE / ACTUALIZACIONES

The Binational Business Magazine

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U.S.-Mexico CrossBorder Trucking After NAFTA

By Arcie Jordan

In an ideal world, there would be no national borders and goods sourced outside of the United States or exported from the United States would move freely, without operational restrictions or legal obstacles, but the reality is that these factors are present whenever supply chains extend internationally. To minimize their impact, transportation providers and intermediaries must foresee and address them well in advance.

Background NAFTA went into effect on January 1, 1994. Since then, responsible agencies in the United States, Canada and Mexico have undertaken various efforts to improve cross-border processes, such as inspections protocols and procedures, and developed programs to fund and improve infrastructure at ports of entry to reduce delays and increase security.

Despite repeated legal and political challenges to the implementation of NAFTA’s cross-border trucking provisions, the U.S. Department of Transportation finally announced in January, 2015, that Mexican motor carriers would be able to apply for authority to conduct long-haul, cross-border trucking services in the United States.

Arcie Jordan, is a partner with Gardere Wynne Sewell LLP. She can be reached at (512) 542-7032 or ajordan@gardere.com.

This article is intended to provide general advice only. It is not intended to provide legal advice.

You should consult your own legal counsel to provide advice based on your specific circumstances.

Coming 15 years after the date established by NAFTA for this opening, the announcement was nonetheless significant. To begin with, it placed Mexican carriers on an equal footing with U.S. carriers who have been able to apply to transport non-hazardous commodities

in Mexico since 2007. Secondly, it paved the way for a permanent termination of more than $2 billion in annual retaliatory tariffs on certain U.S. exports imposed by Mexico following a favorable 2001 decision by a NAFTA dispute settlement panel. As importantly, it signaled a continued commitment by both the U.S. and Mexico to NAFTA’s objective of also eradicating non-tariff barriers to trade.

Continuing Challenges Notwithstanding this progress, the cross-border trucking process is not streamlined. Driven primarily by the customs procedures of both the U.S. and Mexico, U.S. security concerns and entrenched business interests in Mexico, multiple parties continue to be involved in each border crossing; their intervention leads to delays and additional costs.

In the more than 20 years since NAFTA went into effect, third- and fourth-party logistics providers’ participation in cross-border trucking transportation has steadily grown.

Such intermediaries have worked to develop integrated solutions and have been responsible for many improvements. Due to their reliance on the multiple underlying transportation and customs providers, however, even they have found that streamlining is difficult.

Added complexity derives from the differences in the countries’ legal systems. Cargo liability, weight limits, the restrictions on the use of selfhelp remedies, contractual and document formalities, taxes and fiscal requirements, and monetary provisions are but a few of these. Advance appreciation of such differences and appropriate allocation of risks in duly formalized contracts are critical in avoiding unexpected costs and unnecessary disputes.

Last but not least, business cultural issues must be taken into account. Basics such as which party is expected to carry cargo insurance or how claims must be documented and presented can present unexpected obstacles unless they have been considered and allocated in advance.

UPDATE / ACTUALIZACIONES

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North American Integration: Infrastructure and Transportation for Competitiveness Recommendations for a stronger partnership

By Jessica De Alba-Ulloa, Ph.D.

T

his article addresses the continuing importance of supporting the economic integration of North America through NAFTA and its partners the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Also examined is the ongoing effort to ensure the increased productivity and competitiveness of the partners as a joint export platform and a single negotiating block.

There is also a summary of recommendations that were presented to U.S. President Barack Obama, Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at the North American Leaders’ Summit (NAL) in Ottawa, Canada, on June 29, 2016.

North American Process Symposium

T

he third North American Process (NAP) Symposium was held March 30 and 31, 2016, in Phoenix, Arizona. Organized by Universidad Anáhuac México, University of Calgary and Arizona State University, the meeting brought together business leaders, government officials, academics and subject matter experts from Canada, Mexico and the United States with the purpose of developing practical proposals to strengthen North American competitiveness.

The conference focused on creating a trilateral process to help bridge the gap between government and business to enhance cooperation between all three countries. The participants analyzed opportunities and strategies for greater efficiencies and closer collaboration in the energy sector, transportation infrastructure and supply-chain logistics.

A primary goal and concern in relation to transportation and infrastructure is that the North American region needs more functional, results-oriented mechanisms to facilitate the production-commerce process within the regional block to make NAFTA products more cost-effective and competitive in the world’s markets.

Participants agreed that the business sector is far ahead of the government sector in terms of practical integration. It was recommended that best practices and lessons-learned from the business sector be analyzed and utilized across all three countries and that a mechanism for closer coordination between the private sector and government be established.

They also agreed that the countries’ political leaders need to support the private sector to achieve the goals of a more efficient, resourceful and competitive North America.

Another topic also discussed during the NAP Symposium was moving beyond the idea of free trade within North America operating as a single trading and negotiating block. Although it was argued that NAFTA is “dull, unpopular and difficult,” the region’s economic momentum remains strong and NAFTA’s potential continues to be immense as long as the functional elements of the agreement are implemented and updated as needed and effectively communicated to the ground level customs officials at U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, Mexican Tax Administration Service and Canada Border Services Agency.

The dialogue at the symposium validated the continuing need for this forum both as an academic consortium and as a catalyst for the creation of a trilateral institution focused on addressing key issues. It further highlighted the role of universities in convening stakeholders to discuss the most important challenges facing North America.

UPDATE / ACTUALIZACIONES

The Binational Business Magazine

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Recommendations for Building a Stronger Partnership

P

articipants at the symposium developed several recommendations to facilitate trade in the region to increase its competitiveness.

Here are recommendations from the infrastructure, rail and trucking group:

3. Create a trilateral working group to document best practices in rail and truck transportation at the Canada-U.S. and Mexico-U.S. borders in order to evaluate ways to streamline continental rail and truck movement.

1. Promote a coordinated customs system that improves the flow of cross-border transit through development of a single, harmonized custom form for the use by all three countries that can be submitted electronically.

4. Create a North American working group of experienced rail professionals to address the specific issues and concerns of businesses that have “on-the-ground” experience with serious rail delays and losses at the Canada-U.S. or Mexico-U.S. borders.

2. Formalize the technical and operational standards of the rail industry in a similar manner as those applied by the International Air Transportation Association by the U.S. Federal Railroad Administration, the Canadian Transportation Agency and Mexico’s new Rail Transport Regulating Agency. The standards should also include the Association of American Railroads, the Railway Association of Canada and the Mexican Association of Railways.

5. Sign a trilateral logistical agreement to promote a customs process within the XXI Border Initiative that improves the flow of cross-border transit and implements measures to allow trains reaching the border to directly access the facilities of the rail operator.

Recommendations to Reduce Border Threats

T

he symposium also identified several specific actions to reduce border threats to the supply chain and markets.

1. Simplify trade-compliance processes so businesses can clearly understand the requirements.

2. Advance and promote “Made in North America” as a key brand for continental and global competitiveness.

Jessica De Alba-Ulloa, Ph.D., professor-researcher, School of Global Studies, Universidad Anáhuac México.

3. Harness opportunities for closer North American collaboration by encouraging a university-led process that brings together key stakeholders

from public, private and nonprofit sectors. An academic-led approach to the creation of a North America Commission may reduce or eliminate the political complexities of the alliance.

With that goal in mind, the partnership of Universidad Anáhuac México School of Global Studies, the University of Calgary School of Public Policy and the Morrison Institute for Public Policy of Arizona State University will continue their efforts in advancing the North American process to strengthen regional relations and competitiveness. The next symposium will take place in 2017. Stay tuned.

LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT / LIDERAZGO Y GERENCIAMIENTO

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A Diverse and Inclusive Workplace Strengthens Companies and Engages Talent

By Rosa Ramos-Kwok

A

s one of three women and the only Hispanic in a technology training class of 12 new hires, the need for diversity in the workplace was apparent from day one of my career.

From that first day, I felt compelled to take a leadership role in this effort.

In fact, years later, when I first joined Bank of America, N.A., the decision hinged, in part, on the strong alignment between my passion and the company’s visible commitment to diversity and inclusion. I was confident that I would receive support as an employee and encouraged as a leader to actively advance diversity.

My company’s leaders believe that diversity and inclusion make us stronger.

Reflecting the diversity of our customers is critical to our ability to serve their financial needs and being inclusive of all backgrounds and experiences makes us a more innovative company. By creating an inclusive culture where all are encouraged to contribute their authentic perspectives, our clients win with more innovative financial solutions and our teammates win knowing they’ve made a meaningful difference.

Diversity shapes my decisions—whether determining the approach to take with

Rosa Ramos-Kwok is managing director at Bank of America and leads Shared Services Operations Technology within the Global Technology & Operations (GT&O) organization, also serving as co-chair of the Diversity and Inclusion forum within GT&O. She

is a board member of Hispanic IT Executive Council (HITEC), a member of the Senior Leadership Council of NY Chapter of the Association of Latino Professionals for America (ALPFA) and a member of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers.

technology or in resolving an issue. Recently, our team brought together colleagues from many backgrounds, tenure and temperaments for input on crucial improvements to a system processing cycle. By living our commitment to inclusion, I am firmly convinced that our resulting solution was highly robust and that colleagues felt increased ownership of the solution.

I believe it is essential for those groups that are underrepresented to have visible role models, and I’m honored to serve in that capacity.

As a Latina technologist in the financial services industry, I hope to provide a glimpse of the future by mentoring professionals and engaging with college students. When a student approaches me after a college recruiting event and tells me she hadn’t realized that a Hispanic immigrant could have a career in technology and financial services is when I feel successful in my efforts.

By encouraging a student from an underrepresented group—whether Hispanic or other—to consider a career at Bank of America, the company also benefits.

When one can be authentic in every aspect of her life, she is more fulfilled and productive—I know that I am as an employee. I am a stronger leader for my team and a more engaged champion and mentor in the community. I am also deeply proud that Bank of America, N.A. encourages and challenges me and all of my colleagues to bring our whole selves to work every day.

T H E

U N I V E R S I T Y

O F

T E X A S

A T

D A L L A S

Únete a la Siguiente Generación de Líderes Globales en Energía con una Maestría en Gestión de Energía.

La maestría en gestión de energía prepara a los estudiantes para carreras en:

La adquisición, desinversión y gestión de activos en EE.UU e internacionales relacionados con la energía en los sectores de exploración, producción, transportación, refinación y distribución.

• Finanzas relacionadas con el sector de energía, impuestos, contabilidad y planificación.

• Departamentos internos de gestión y negociación para propiedades en la industria energética.

• Investigación, análisis y negociación de las instituciones de crédito y firmas de inversión.

• Análisis, planeación y ministerios de gestión de las compañías Nacionales de Petróleo de la política internacional de gobierno.

El plan de estudios también abarca el componente de educación de negocios requerido por muchas compañías energéticas de sus ingenieros y otros científicos en la transición a puestos directivos.

•

Para más información visite jindal.utdallas.edu/energy.

UT Dallas es la casa de estudios para 24.500 estudiantes, con casi 25 por ciento de estudiantes internacionales de más de 100 países, la escuela de Administración Naveen Jindal cuenta con una amplia facultad internacional la cual fue posicionada como No. 18 en el mundo por su investigación de la productividad, según la publicación Financial Times.

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The Importance of Cross-Cultural Factors in Doing Business in Mexico

By Dr. Pramila Rao and Fernando Sanchez-Arias

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elow the surface of intellectual and emotional layers, international managers and business leaders face the challenge of behavioral, physical and spiritual differences that can make a trade very successful or, to the contrary, a terrible failure. Beingable to identify differences and similarities when negotiating or working in cross-border assignments and trade missions increases the possibilities for success.1,2,3 According to the United States Trade Representative Office, U.S. trade with Mexico totaled an estimated $583.6 billion in 2015; exports were $267.2 billion, imports were $316.4 billion. Mexico is currently the U.S.’s third-largest trading partner with $531 billion in total (two-way) goods trade during 2015. Goods exports totaled $236 billion, goods imported totaled $295 billion.

Trade in services with Mexico (exports and imports) totaled an estimated $52.4 billion in 2015. Services exports were $30.8 billion, services imports were $21.6 billion. More and more American and Mexican leaders are creating businesses in an inter-cultural environment where small cultural details can jeopardize an important negotiation. Knowing how Mexicans think, feel, act and connect can make the business interactions more effective. Research shows that combining the right knowledge with the right motivation and behavior can help any international trader or manager be more profitable and successful in their business in Mexico. 4,5 One of the things that needs to be understood is that cultural differences exist and understanding how a national culture is

different or similar to another one helps business people interact better.

One of the most respected works of research into national cultural dimensions is the one published by Geert Hofstede, author of Cultures Consequences. Hofstede found that any national culture can be observed and understood by looking at six factors: power distance, uncertainty avoidance, masculinity vs. femininity, individualism vs. collectivism, long term orientation and indulgence vs. restraint.

This article will identify how these cultural dimensions translate into the workplace.

Table 1 and Figure 1 provide values for Mexico on these dimensions.7 The power-distance dimension shows the extent national cultures accept power and authority in organizations. Organizational levels in Mexico reflect hierarchy, status, and authority. Mexicans prefer job titles that reflect their power and positions.8 The high-power distance also makes Mexican subordinates behave in a deferential manner to their superiors.9 Bosses are usually addressed with formal titles of jefe or patron. The Mexican workforce does not endorse subordinates addressing bosses by their first names.10 The uncertainty-avoidance dimension denotes the extent to which national cultures feel threatened by uncertain or ambiguous situations.

Their high scores on uncertainty-avoidance makes the work culture quite bureaucratic. For example, in recruitment, applicants’ bio-data solicit elaborate personal and professional

information to reduce any uncertainty in the recruitment process.11 In production or work schedules, any changes require several signatures before such changes can be implemented.12 The masculinity dimension suggests the extent to which the cultures emphasize materialistic goals, while the feminine dimension indicates a cultural importance on nurturing values. The Mexican culture is male-dominated and strongly prefers men for upper-level and executive positions. Women frequently express being marginalized and harassed at the work place.13 The individualism dimension addresses the values the culture places on independence, while the collectivism dimension refers to the importance cultures emphasize for group harmony. Mexicans with their high collectivist orientation demonstrate a strong affinity for their family and friends (inner groups) and frequently hire from their inner group circles.14, 15 The long-term orientation determines whether cultures will adopt strategic perspectives in formulating corporate or personal practices. The Mexican culture lives very much in the present and maĂąana (tomorrow) is considered another day. However, large organizations and Mexican subsidiaries of multinationals place a premium on strategic planning initiatives as they observe best practices from other international organizations.16

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Finally, indulgent vs. restraint reflects the pleasure-seeking nature of societies.17 Mexicans simply love to enjoy life—a very hedonistic culture—as identified by its number two rank in Hofstede’s study. Mexicans celebrate approximately 600 public fiestas annually. Fiestas reveal several interesting cultural aspects of Mexicans. First, Mexicans like to spend time with their inner-group members and these gatherings provide such communal opportunities. Second, fiestas allow Mexicans to venerate and respect social and religious traditions, a deeply embedded cultural trait.18 Business leaders of multinationals should understand the cultural dimensions of the country in which they will be doing business. This cultural intelligence will certainly help them be more successful in today’s global village. International managers also require to demonstrate the right combination of knowledge and motivation with a good blend of strategy.

This will help them go beyond any initial differences to build strong relations that can generate profit and sustainability in their business interactions with Mexico.

Pramilka Rao, Ph.D., is a member of the Society of Human Resource Management (HRM) and an author of two learning modules on HRM practices of India and Mexico. She is an associate professor of human resources, management and marketing at Marymount University in Arlington, VA.

Table 1 Hofstede’s National Cultural Dimensions:

Mexico National Cultural dimensions

Score

Rank

Power Distance

81

10-11

Uncertainty-Avoidance

82

26-27

Masculinity6

98

Individualism3

0

48-50

Long-term orientation

24

74-76

Indulgent versus Restraint

97

2

Source: Hofstede,G., Hofstede, G., Minkov, M. (2010). Cultures and Organizations. Software of the Mind. Intercultural Cooperation and Its Importance for Survival. New York. McGrawHill.

Figure 1 National Cultural Dimensions for Mexico 97 82

81 69

30

Power Distance

Individualism

24

Masculinity

Uncertaity Avoidance

Long-term orientation

Indulgent versus Restraint

Source: Hofstede Centre (2016). https://geert-hofstede.com/mexico.html.

Fernando Sanchez-Arias is a PennCLO executive doctoral program student. He is an international talent management executive with more than 25 years of experience in more than 70 countries. He is vice president of the U.S.-Mexico Chamber of Commerce.

1. Hill, C.W. (2010). International Business: Competing in the Global Marketplace (8th ed.), Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Irwin McGraw-Hill.

2. Storti, C. (2001), The Art of Crossing Borders, London: Nicholas Brealey and Intercultural Press.

3. Dowling, P., Festing, M., and Engle, A. (2008). “International Human Resource Management: Managing People in a Multinational Context,” Hampshire: Cengage Learning.

4. Adler, N.J. (1997). International Dimensions of Organizational Behavior. Cincinnati, OH: South-Western College Publishing.

5. Trompenaars, F. (1993). Riding the Waves of Culture: Understanding Cultural Diversity in Business. London: The Economist Books.

6. Hofstede, G. (1980). Culture’s Consequences: International Differences in Work-Related Values. Beverly Hills, CA: Sage.

7. Hofstede, G. (1991). Cultures and Organizations: Software of the Mind. London: McGraw-Hill.

8. Peterson, D. (2010). “A Longitudinal Study of Assimilated Corporate Culture in Mexico.”

Journal of Management Research, 2(1), 1-26.

9. Matviuk, S. (2010). “A Correlational Study 0f Culture and Leadership Expectations in a Mexican Manufacturing Plant.” The Business Review, Cambridge, 15(1), 14-19.

10. Arias-Galicia, F. (2005). Human Resource Management in Mexico. In Davila, A. and Elvira, M. (Eds) Managing Human Resources in Latin America (179-190). London and New York.

Routledge.

11. Davila, A., and Elvira, M. (2007). “Psychological Contracts and Performance Management in Mexico. International Journal of Manpower, 28 (5), 384-402.

12. Litrico, J. (2007). “Beyond Paternalism: Cross-Cultural Perspectives on the Functioning of a

Mexican Production Plant.” Journal of Business Ethics, 73(1), 53-63.

13. Zabludovsky, G. (2001). “Women Managers and Diversity Programs in Mexico.” The Journal of Management Development, 20 (4), 354-371.

14. Brutus, S. & Cabrera, E. (2004). “The Influence of Personal Values on Feedback-Seeking Behaviors.” Management Research, 2(3), 235-250.

15. Davila, A., and Elvira, M. (2007). “Psychological Contracts and Performance Management in Mexico.” International Journal of Manpower, 28 (5), 384-402 16. Gannon, M. & Pillai, R. (2010). Understanding Global Cultures. Metaphorical Journeys through 29 Nations, Clusters of Nations, Continents and Diversity. Los Angeles, London, New Delhi. Sage Publications.

17. Hofstede,G., Hofstede, G., Minkov, M. (2010). Cultures and Organizations. Software of the Mind. Intercultural Cooperation and Its Importance for Survival. New York. McGrawHill.

18. Gannon, M. & Pillai, R. (2010). Understanding Global Cultures. Metaphorical Journeys through 29 Nations, Clusters of Nations, Continents and Diversity. Los Angeles, London, New Delhi. Sage Publications.

Additional resources: Global Gender Gap (2013). World Economic Forum. http://www.weforum.org/issues/global-gender-gap.

Hofstede Centre (2016). https://geert-hofstede.com/mexico.html.

U.S.-Mexico Trade Facts (2016). Office of the United States Trade Representative. https://ustr. gov/countries-regions/americas/mexico

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Logistics Partners:

The Key to Export Success No doubt, exports are synonymous with business growth, not to mention fundamental to the macroeconomic consolidation of emerging economies. Exports present challenges and it is important to understand what these are in order to define the steps needed to overcome them.

This is why UPS Mexico has commissioned the “UPS Exports in Mexico: Challenges and Opportunities� study, which is based on telephone and online interviews with 474 logistics decision-makers from export companies working in the manufacturing, automotive and technology industries which are major sectors driving growth and development in our country.

One of the major findings published in the report is that a high percentage of companies feel there still are opportunities to make exports more efficient: 90 percent of them, in fact. Regarding the steps that need to be taken in order to improve exports, below are the main ones:

86 percent of companies believe that speed and reliability are of paramount importance; 83 percent stated their major concern is on the integrity and protection of their merchandise; 82 percent are searching for better-trained staff in order to ensure efficiency in processes related to customs procedures and regulatory requirements.

In any production activity, regardless of the industry, delivery delays are not acceptable and can even lead to fines as a result of interruptions to the production cycle. It is no surprise then to see that those surveyed consider delivery speed and reliability, in addition to the integrity of the merchandise, to be the most important elements in the export process.

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In the complex area of coordinating border crossings, regulations and customs procedures, companies are focusing on overcoming these obstacles by recruiting external logistics providers to help them improve their supply chains. Executives and decision-makers know this will have a positive impact on their businesses.

What steps need to be taken in order to develop logistics processes and improve productive chains? The answer is to approach a business partner like UPS which has logistics in its DNA. UPS offers companies the widest-ranging portfolio of solutions available on the market in addition to the experience of its salesforce. These assets power production chains for both cross-border trade with the United States and with the whole world.

This year, with the goal of facilitating trade between Mexico and the U.S., UPS has evolved its portfolio of cross-border services by listening to what companies need: a tailor-made service that is in sync with the rhythm of their production chains.

Companies can choose their transportation mode based on the size of their shipments.

They can also review transit times and select the most suitable options. This has a positive impact on their profitability by optimizing resources which help them grow their businesses.

Every company’s needs are unique, which is why we don’t offer them all the same solutions; UPS works alongside companies to learn about business, their processes and their vision. Based on this information, UPS creates customized solutions to meet their requirements, creating a synergy between the company and its logistics partner. UPS tells companies: “Let’s Face the Challenges Together.”

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2016

Annual Conference & Good Neighbor Awards Gala

Binational Conference

The 2016 Annual Conference & Good Neighbor Awards Gala, held in Washington, D.C., was once again the Chamber’s highlight event of the year and, as has been the history, brought together

a mix of private and public sector representatives from the United States and Mexico who addressed timely topics and areas of interest for the participants.

IT and Security

T

he conference kicked off with a panel on cybersecurity and IT innovation moderated by the CEO of Softtek North America, Marcos Jimenez.

Jimenez also discussed how cyber-terrorists use phish software to cause damage in companies, citing examples such as the 2014 hacking into Sony Pictures Entertainment systems. The hackers accessed personal information about Sony’s employees and their families, emails between employees, information about executive salaries at the compa-

ny, copies of then-unreleased Sony films, and other information. He commented that security awareness programs are paramount to protect digital assets in industry and the public sector.

Panelist DC Page, senior vice president of Andrews International, shared his observations that the motivation for cyber-crime in many cases is financial, noting several countries’ purported participation.

of American States) CICTE (Inter-American Committee against Terrorism, Comité Interamericano contra el Terrorismo), when authorities investigate and fix cyber-attacks, they undertake a forensic analysis to identify the source. She opined that, while congratulating Mexico for its mature framework for policy development regarding cyber security, there is much work yet to be done in the rest of Latin America.1

According to Kerry-Ann Barrett, cyber security policy specialist with the OAS’ (Organization

Joseph Guzman, Ph.D., assistant professor and interim director of the Chicano/Latino

1. The study on security, “Observatorio de Seguridad”, can be found at the OAS website, http://www.oas.org/dsp/espanol/cpo_observatorio.asp

Studies Program at Michigan State University and former director of Biometrics Management Office at the U.S. Department of Defense, talked about innovation, new biometrics applications and the increasing use of face recognition software.

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PHOTO 1

1

Marcos Jimenez, CEO of Softtek North America; Kerry-Ann Barrett, cyber security policy specialist with the OAS’ (Organization of American States) CICTE (Inter-American Committee against Terrorism); Joseph Guzman, Ph.D., assistant professor and interim director of the Chicano/Latino Studies Program at Michigan State University; and DC Page, senior vice president of Andrews International.

Migration & Border Facilitation The second panel addressed migration and border facilitation. It was moderated by Seth Stodder, assistant secretary of Homeland Security for Border, Immigration and Trade Policy. He emphasized the need for security at the border but not at the expense of the economies, and urged businesses to take advantage of the new digital economy, especially as related to collecting information that goes beyond North America.

spoke about the increasing use of “fast lanes” and joint cargo inspections at the border, the current program for automated clearance and the release process.

Jose M. Garcia Sanjines, from Mexico’s Ministry of Finance, Taxation & Customs, Embassy of Mexico in Washington, D.C.,

John Chrisos, vice president of American Science and Engineering Inc. (AS&E), explained how new technology is being

Maria Elena Giner, general manager of the Border Environmental Cooperation Commission (BECC) detailed the new agreement on U.S.-Mexico border environmental cooperation, focusing on water and wastewater treatment.

Congressional

Roundtable and Reception U.S. Rep. Pete Sessions (R-TX, 32nd Dist.), chairman of the House Committee on Rules, hosted the traditional Congressional Roundtable and Reception. In attendance were U.S. Reps. Mike McCaul (R-TX, 10th Dist.), chairman of the Homeland Security Committee, and Henry Cuellar (D-TX, 28th Dist.), member of the House Appropriations Committee.

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used to filter materials that cross the border and commented on the importance of identifying what exactly is being looked for, i.e. drugs, weapons, etc.

PHOTO 2 Seth Stodder, assistant secretary of U.S. Department of Homeland Security for Border, Immigration and Trade Policy; Jose M. Garcia, Representative, Taxation and Customs Affairs, Ministry of Finances, Mexico; Maria Elena Giner, P.E., general manager Border Environment Corporation Commission; and John Chrisos, vice president of American Science and Engineering Inc.

PHOTO 3 Congress members Pete Sessions, Michael McCaul, Chairman and Henry Cuellar address USMCOC board members during the Congressional Roundtable at The Capitol.

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PHOTO 4 Ambassador Juan Sosa; Jose Zozaya, William Cusack and Cate Luzio.

4

PHOTO 5 José Zozaya, and Albert Zapanta, president and CEO of the USMCOC, present the Good Neighbor Award to Marcos Jiménez, CEO of Softtek North America.

PHOTO 6 José Zozaya (l) and Al Zapanta (r) present Jeh C. Johnson, secretary of Homeland Security, with the Good Neighbor Award.

PHOTO 7 Emilio Gonzalez, executive director for Strategic Alliances, receives the Good Neighbor Award on behalf of Verizon Communications Inc. from José Zozaya (l) and Al Zapanta.

Supply Chain, Logistics, Transportation & Infrastructure The conference panel on Supply Chain, Logistics, Transportation & Infrastructure, was moderated by Jose Zozaya, president, general manager and executive representative of Kansas City Southern de Mexico.

William Cusack, manager of Global Solutions Manufacturing for Zebra Technologies, commented that customer

Capital Markets & Emerging Economies Juan Francisco Torres Landa, managing partner of the Mexico City office of the Hogan Lovells law firm, moderated the Capital Markets & Emerging Economies panel. He addressed his remarks to Mexico’s financial reforms, past meltdowns that prompted Mexico to plan ahead, and the increasing relevance and growth of the automotive industry in Mexico.

Dora Lakova, mission chief for Mexico, International Monetary Fund, focused her comments on the resiliency of the Mexican economy due to its significant and diversified exports to the U.S. She reported that remaining challenges in Mexico include reducing its “informal” market, increasing productivity and raising the level of female participation in the labor force.

5

expectations continue to increase—they want better time delivery and tracking of their goods.

Cate Luzio, head of Global International Subsidiary Banking Client Coverage, Global Commercial Banking, HSBC, described how Mexico has enhanced its connections to the world and the significant advantage it has over Asia in

supplying goods to the U.S. Ambassador Juan Sosa, consul general from Panama in Houston, mentioned that Texas needs to be more competitive in cost and service than ever before, and the Panama Canal expansion will be providing an opportunity for Texas to accomplish this in shipping and logistics to the rest of the U.S.

Good Neighbor Awards Gala Dinner Two days of great meetings and events were capped with the Good Neighbor Awards Gala Dinner at the impressive and awe-inspiring Organization of American States building.

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7

Softtek USA (Mexico) and Verizon (U.S.) were the recipients of the Good Neighbor Award in the private sector for their respective countries.

Jeh Johnson, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security and Luis Videgaray Caso, Secretario de Hacienda y Credito Publico received the public sector awards.

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DFW $37 A

Billion Economic Force

Many are familiar with Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) International Airport as a passenger-friendly gateway to the United States and beyond. DFW is the third busiest airport in the world in terms of flight operations and welcomes over 64 million travellers each year. A lesser known, though equally important, aspect of the airport’s mission is driving growth to the local economy.

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2015 study conducted by the Perryman Group reported DFW Airport delivers over $37 billion dollars in economic impact for the North Texas region, and supports 228,000 jobs in the area with an associated payroll of $12.5 billion each year.

DFW Airport knows the value of diversity in the business world which has yielded significant economic results. According to the Perryman study, $1.2 billion is added to the local economy by engaging disadvantaged, small, minority, and women-owned businesses. The Airport’s business diversity programs account for 7,500 jobs and $366 million in payroll.

“DFW Airport is proud of the contribution we make to the ongoing economic success of the Dallas Fort Worth area. There are now 21 Fortune 500 companies, including American Airlines, in our region,” said Sean Donohue, chief executive officer of DFW Airport. “We will continue to support new business expansion by staying focused on increasing air service and positioning DFW and the region on the global stage.”

DFW offers airline service to 56 international destinations, and recognizes the importance of increasing that number, as well as frequencies, to support travel demand and build the airport of the future.

“We are marketing DFW aggressively on a global level, but we also have to be strategic in how and where to expand our operations,” said Donohue. “We expect a significant portion of our future growth to come from international travel.”

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ne of DFW’s top priority markets is Mexico, currently the airport’s largest international customer base. Thirty-five percent of the Airport’s international passengers are from Mexico and, in just 12 months, more than 1.8 million people travelled to the Dallas Fort Worth region.

To support this level of traffic, DFW has increased non-stop service to 19 leading Mexican business and leisure destinations.

DFW hosts six passenger airlines that fly to Mexico: AeroMexico, American Airlines, Interjet, Spirit, Sun Country and Volaris. Altogether, customers can choose from over 320 flights each week to Mexico, and in turn, the flights gener-

ate more than $1 billion in annual economic impact to the Dallas Fort Worth region.

The Airport’s relationship with Mexico doesn’t end there.

This summer, DFW Airport supported Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings, Fort Worth Mayor Betsy Price, DFW Airport board members Bridget M. Lopez and Henry Borbolla, and Dallas Mayor Pro Tem Monica R. Alonzo on a trade mission to Mexico City to build economic, cultural and diplomatic ties between the Dallas Fort Worth area and Mexico. DFW Airport hosted a travel industry reception to promote travel and tourism to North Texas and to educate travel buyers on the benefits of choosing DFW as the U.S. gateway for their clients.

Over the last five years, DFW has participated or led more

than a dozen of these missions with the cities of Dallas and Fort Worth to promote new air service, support existing routes, and build business relationships.

“By working together, we can build on our success in expanding the North Texas economy,” said Donohue.

To keep up the pace in attracting more passengers to DFW and supporting the economy, the airport must do more than just increase air service options for passengers. In line with its vision to be a preeminent global superhub, DFW is heavily investing in improving the customer experience.

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One key project is the ongoing $2.7 billion Terminal Renewal and Improvement Program.

This initiative is about renewing DFW’s original terminals, adding amenities and concessions, and updating technology. From free charging stations for electronics to a variety of places to shop, dine and relax, passengers will find more options for comfort and entertainment than ever before.

the country. While maintaining a focus on safety and security, the airport continuously seeks ways to improve travel facilitation for international passengers.

As a gateway into the United States and a key transit point between Latin American and Asia, one of DFW Airport’s priorities is creating an efficient, expedient entry process into

Wait times in Passport Control have been reduced to 15 minutes or less for most passengers thanks to investments made by the Airport.

There are more than 70 kiosks

The DFW Airport International Arrivals Hall looks very different from many other U.S. airports. Aside from the art and friendly staff available to direct passengers, there is an abundance of technology available.

where passengers process themselves—much like the self-service airline ticketing kiosks.

Automated Passport Control kiosks allow electronic processing for more than 70 percent of all international customers. Global Entry kiosks are available for citizens from eight countries, including Mexico, and are a popular method for business travellers. Another useful option that benefits all international passengers is DFW’s Carry E-Z lane, which allows anyone making an international-to-international connection on a Oneworld airline or flying without checked bags to clear customs in one step.

DFW is certainly not the same Airport it was five years ago.

The airport has seen unprecedented levels of international growth. The stage is set for greater expansion with a strong partnership with the cities of Dallas and Fort Worth, targeted campaigns to increase brand awareness and build ties internationally, and a commitment to revamping the customer experience.

Today, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport is an economic powerhouse for North Texas with 2015’s impact figures significantly higher than those calculated just two years earlier. Tomorrow, the sky is the limit for the Dallas Fort Worth region with a continued commitment to connect the DFW area to international commerce and tourism.

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WHY

DALLAS? Many are familiar with Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) International Airport as a passenger-friendly gateway to the United States and beyond. DFW is the third busiest airport in the world in terms of flight operations and welcomes over 64 million travellers each year. A lesser known, though equally important, aspect of the airport’s mission is driving growth to the local economy.

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It’s the people: Photo Credit: Justin Terveen

The Dallas Fort Worth metroplex has seen tremendous growth since the 1970s. For the most part, people were following the jobs. They discovered upon their arrival that the area is diverse in nearly every way—from people and backgrounds, types of housing stock, neighborhoods, schools, careers, and entertainment. The region’s housing prices make it an attractive market at 24 percent below the national average and 50 percent less than many other large metropolitan areas. The region meets nearly every demographic’s interests and needs.

The DFW region is now the fourth-largest region in the country with 12 four-year universities and seven community college districts which means that nearly 350,000 students are enrolled in post-secondary programs at any given time. As a result, companies in the area are able to attract a skilled and highly-educated workforce.

The region leads the country in new employment at about 3.5 percent. And as a regional financial center and large business hub, people relocate and stay for the high quality of life.

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Favorable business climate: ow taxes and straightforward regulation are a few of the reasons Texas consistently ranks as one of the most favorable business climates in the U.S. Texas is one of only a handful of states without corporate or personal income taxes.

Texas is a right-to-work state with low workers’ compensation costs. The overall cost of doing business is seven percent below the national average so companies looking to grow can get more bang for the buck. Additionally, a competitive incentives environment and a business-friendly state government mean that companies new to the area can quickly be up and running. As a result, CEOs across the country consistently rank Texas as a top state for business year after year.

Another plus for the region is its productivity; about 25 percent of the state’s population generates about 32 percent of the state’s gross product which is about the size of Belgium’s GDP. It is predicted that the region will continue to see growth in its gross product of about 4.3 percent through 2020.

Photo Credit: Dallas Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Its core strengths are in:

Diverse economy: he best way to tell this story is by looking to the “2015 World’s Most Competitive Cities” report, published by Conway Data. This study ranks urban areas of more than 500,000 inhabitants that demonstrate competitiveness to attract investment.

Advanced services

DFW is the regional hub for operating corporate headquarters across industry sectors and provides a network of relevant services, talent and like-minded corporate neighbors, including: AT&T, Dr. Pepper Snapple Group, ExxonMobil, Fluor, Fossil, Frito-Lay, Gamestop, Kimberly-Clark, Mary Kay, Neiman Marcus, Texas Instruments, and many U.S. or North American headquarters for international companies such as 7-Eleven, Bimbo, Cinépolis, Fujitsu, Interceramic, Mission Foods/ GRUMA, Hilti, Huawei and Toyota.

Dallas was the only region to be ranked as a topfive location for new corporate investments in 10 of the 12 North Americas industries ranked: aerospace (#3); automotive (#3); business and financial services (#1); chemicals and plastics (#5); electronics (#5); energy (#2); food and beverage (#1); IT and communications (#2); machinery, equipment and construction (#2); and transportation and logistics (#2).

Logistics and trade

Diversity is one of the region’s strengths, insulating it from economic ups and downs. In fact, only about six percent of the region’s economy is related to energy.

In addition to moving goods by air, the area has capacity to move goods by rail and roads. Multiple points of entry for international goods, foreign trade zones, and a robust logistics infrastructure make this region one of the top NAFTA destinations for global companies.

The transportation infrastructure makes Dallas really shine. Dallas Fort Worth International Airport and Dallas Love Field make travel in and out of the area easily. Home to the world’s largest airline, American Airlines, and the largest domestic airline, Southwest Airlines, travel options abound. The central location direct flights to all of the major North American markets. The ability to get to Asia, Europe, Latin America and the Middle East means simplified business operations and reduced costs.

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Technology

The region has the seventh-highest concentration of high-tech workers in the United States and is home to one-third of all hightech jobs in Texas. Those jobs are diverse ranging from entrepreneurial start-ups to high-end manufacturing to coders at big enterprises and software companies. The university and entrepreneurial networks are robust and stand ready to support the future generation of business.

Sampling of headquarter relocations to the Dallas Region: Around 75 moves since 2010 NEW YORK

MINNESOTA

Greatbatch HMS Holdings Signature Systems Group Six Flags Entertainment

MoneyGram Speed Commerce (Navarre)

MASSACHUSETTS

MICHIGAN

NTT Data Inc. VCE

Comerica

CALIFORNIA Acacia Research Group AccentCare ACTIVE Network Ameriflight LLC C&S Prpeller CoreSpace Caliber Collision Centers Channell Commercial Corp.

Ciao Telecom Cinépolis Consolidated Electrical Distributors Copart Daegis Inc. Farmers Brothers Coffee Fluor Fonality Glenmount Global Solutions Ironclad Performance Wear Corp. loanDepot.com Jamba Inc. Kubota Tractor Corporation Monkey Sports Inc. Motorsport Aftermarket Group and MAG Retail MV Transportation Omnitracs Pacific Union Financial Primoris Raytheon Space and Airborne Systems (SAS) Reel FX Creative Studios Corp.

Rixi Recovery Services Solera Holdings Titan Laboratories Toyota North America Trend Micro Vendor Resource Management W3global

NEVADA

CONNECTICUT

ILLINOIS

NEBRASKA

Bar Louie Restaurant Group Ferris Manufacturing Neovia Logistics Services TopGolf

Heartland Automotive Services

PENNSYLVANIA

Sunoco LP

Accudyne Industries iCall Inc. Revere Capital LLC

NEW JERSEY

CVE TECHNOLOGY GROUP INC

COLORADO

Cagney Global Logistics Harris Broadcast

KANSAS

MISSOURI

Alco Hostess

GKN Aerostructures

TENNESSEE Dynamic Energy Alliance

ARKANSAS

OKLAHOMA

Golden Living

Global Power Equipment Group Inc. Hilti LinkAmerica

GEORGIA NYLO Hotels

ALABAMA AUSTIN

Greenstream Seven Hills Commercial

SAN ANTONIO AT&T Christus Health

HOUSTON

Inx Inc. Magnum Hunter Resources U.S. Concrete

Torchmark Zoes Kitchen

OTHER NEW HQ ESTABLISHMENTS Blackberry North American HQ (Canada) GuestLogix U.S. HQ (Canada) Hisun Motors North American HQ (China) Howard Hughes Corporation NGC Renewables North American HQ (China)

FLORIDA CCS Medical Fiesta Restaurant Group

As one of the most affordable areas in the country, the region offers a competitive advantage for companies as they seek to keep labor costs low and recruit exceptional employees seeking a great quality of life. For example, Toyota North America, Inc. recently announced the consolidation of several locations and relocation of their corporate headquarters to the area. The transition, expected to be completed in 2017, will affect more that 4,000 jobs from California, Kentucky and New York City. CEO, Jim Lentz, said, “If you look at not just Toyota but all of these businesses that are coming, you’ve created this tremendous environment…business can thrive here.”

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Northeast Chapter

June 16

AMEXCAP’s Private Equity Day in NYC The chapter was a supporting organization of the conference, “Private Equity Day in New York City,” organized by AMEXCAP (Mexican Association of Private Equity & Venture Capital Funds). The main objective of this flagship event was to serve as a catalyst for foreign investment in Mexico.

New York, NY

April 15

Global Economic Uncertainty and Effects on Mexico March 17

Mexico’s Energy Future The chapter partnered with Foreign Affairs to host this full-day examination of Mexico’s energy reforms. Speakers presented high-ranking viewpoints on investment, environmental impact, and the energy legacy of Mexico’s president.

Opportunities and challenges were highlighted in the areas of oil and gas exploration, refining, and logistics, with special attention to deep water and shale. The forum also explored the future of the power sector and the potential for renewables, project finance instruments and the role of public private partnerships.

Natixis Global Asset Management, a regional member of the chapter, hosted a conversation between members and the company’s chief economist, Patrick Artus, one of the most influential and recognized economists in France.

April 21

Mexican Professionals Networking Reception The chapter partnered with APEM and La Red de Talentos Mexicanos for a night of networking with Mexican professionals working and living in New York City.

May 5 March 30

Farewell Reception for Consul General of Mexico Chapter president Eduardo Ramos-Gomez hosted a farewell reception for Ambassador Sandra Fuentes-Berain, Consul General of Mexico in New York at the offices of Duane Morris.

Annual Cinco de Mayo Luncheon The annual luncheon is a celebration of this important day in Mexican history during which we embrace Mexican heritage and culture. Executive Chef Enrique Olvera and Chef de Cuisine Daniela Soto-Innes of Cosme prepared a menu designed for this event.

Danny Kidishon of Mayor Bill DiBlassio’s office presented the chapter with a proclamation.

May 24

MCC Young Professionals Going Global The USMCOC Northeast Chapter and Manhattan Chamber of Commerce sponsored an event held in conjunction with World Trade Week. The partnership with bilateral chambers brought together young professionals from all over the world for an international night of networking.

June 3

PEMEX-Market View & Mexican Sovereign Implication Nomura Securities, regional member of the chapter, hosted a panel of experts as they evaluated PEMEX from a financial point of view as well as an in-depth analysis by the private sector.

June 8

Private Meeting with Ambassador Carlos Sada HSBC hosted the recently-appointed ambassador of Mexico to the U.S., Carlos Sada at an event attended by a select group of binational and regional members and special guests. Ambassador Sada addressed key issues regarding the recent developments affecting the U.S.-Mexico bilateral relation.

The most active general partner in Mexico, advisory firms, entrepreneurs and investors shared their experiences in the Mexican private equity market which has been moving in a positive direction for the last several years. . This growth is due to recent structural reform changes, a large domestic market with rising purchasing power, and the decisive creation of new investment vehicles like the Real Estate Trust for the energy sector and infrastructure (FIBRA E), investment projects backed certificates, as well as the changes in the rules for Private Equity Trusts.

June 30

Mexico’s Urban Future The chapter again partnered with Foreign Affairs to present a conference focused on Mexico’s Urban Future. Since Mexico’s urban development is undergoing a fundamental shift in practices; developers and the government are committed to building sustainable, smart, efficient, and interconnected cities under the auspices of the new Ministry of Agrarian, Territorial, & Urban Development.

Discussion topics included consolidating the housing sector, creating a program of smart city development, improving urban mobility and developing special economic zones.

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Mid-America Chapter Chicago, IL

A Conversation with Mexico’s Secretary of Economy

PHOTO 1 Left to right: Joaquin Boeker, chief financial officer, ThyssenKrupp; Ildefonso Guajardo Villarreal, Secretary of Economy of Mexico; Paul Hetterich, executive vice president and President Beer Division; Jim Ryan, senior vice president, Corporate Affairs, Constellation Brands Beer Division.

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he Mid-America Chapter hosted a luncheon and panel discussion with Mexico’s Secretary of Economy, Ildefonso Guajardo Villarreal at the Union League Club of Chicago on May 31.

Secretary Guajardo addressed about 130 business leaders and guests during the panel discussion, emphasizing the business opportunities and the benefits from the more than 20 years NAFTA has provided to Mexico and the United States—especially to Illinois.

The panel was moderated by chapter president Gery Chico. The panelists were Paul Hetterich, president of the Beer Division of Constellation Brands; Bernardo Ayala, vice president of marketing and sales for Union Pacific; and Lorraine Hawley with international affairs of Archer Daniel Midland.

The secretary noted the importance of the partnership that exists between the country and the Mexican community in Chicago. He encouraged businesses to double their efforts in promoting Mexico’s image as a strategic partner that contributes to global economic growth in the decades to come. He stated, “This type of contact was necessary for the important businesses that reside in Chicago and for the positive impact that the pro3

2

ductive integration has had in North America.”

PHOTO 2 From left to right: Paul Hetterich, executive vice president, Constellation Brands and president, Beer Division; Ildefonso Guajardo Villarreal, Secretary of Economy of Mexico; Lorraine Hawley, director of International Government Relations, Archer Daniels Midland; Bernardo Ayala, vice president, Mexico Markets, Union Pacific.

PHOTO 3 Albert Zapanta, president and CEO U.S. - Mexico Chamber of Commerce.

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PHOTO 1 Kunming China Expo 2016 Dallas Delegation in Yunnan.

Southwest Chapter Dallas, TX

1

M PHOTO 2 Chinese Delegation visiting Dallas at Dallas City Hall.

Zhou Xuewen, deputy director general, Department of Commerce of Yunnan Province; Gal Jumasos, president of the Greater Dallas Asian American Chamber of Commerce; Monica Alonzo, mayor pro tem of Dallas; Li Jiming, vice secretary general, The General Office of The People’s Government of Yunnan Province; Josie Orosco, president of U.S. Mexico Chamber of Commerce; Ken M. Tse, president of Noahplex International Consulting.

PHOTO 3 U.S.-Mexico Chamber of Commerce, The Greater Dallas Asian American Chamber of Commerce and Noahplex with the Yunnan Delegation at USMCOC Southwest chapter Global Fusion Luncheon.

embers of the U.S.-Mexico Chamber of Commerce Southwest Chapter traveled to Kunming, China June 12 through 17, 2016, for the fourth China-South Asia Exposition and 23rd China Kunming Import and Export Commodities Fair.

to increase trade and growth potential.

The Dallas delegation was hosted daily at various events and dinners by key members of the Kunming Commerce and Agricultural Departments who were extraordinarily hos-

tablishing cross-trade relationships between China and the United States.

“The city of Kunming is a culturally rich area with incredible business opportunities,” Brewer noted.

Ruth Brewer, partner and founding member of the law firm Brewer & Lormand PLLC and a regional chamber board member, was instrumental in organizing the trip with the Greater Dallas Asian American Chamber of Commerce.

The City of Kunming sits in the beautiful Yunnan Province at the southern border of the People’s Republic of China, making the province uniquely situated to facilitate trade across major hubs into China. As a result, it is one of the most diverse regions in China.

Known as the Spring City due to its year-round mild climate, the Yunnan Province is an agricultural epicenter. The region is also working to expand its network of railways

3

pitable and eager to engage in fostering trade between Yunnan Province and North Texas.

The North Texas delegations are graciously indebted to the Kunming Commerce Department for its leadership in es-

The Chamber is eagerly anticipating the return of the Yunnan delegation to Dallas in April of 2017, yet another step in an important dialogue strengthening the relationship between the two regions.

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Houston-The Woodlands Gulf Coast Chapter Annual Golf Tournament The chapter had its fifth annual golf tournament at The Woodlands Country Club on April 11 with its best turnout yet—over 120 players including teams from United Airlines, Mortons Auctioneers, AeroMexico Airlines, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Memorial Hermann The Woodlands, Don José Tequila, Stegent & Garcia, The Woodlands Resort and many others.

3

1

Medical Tourism Programs The chapter is also coordinating the efforts of its members in the health sector by developing medical tourism programs to The Woodlands, Texas. Pete Garcia, executive director for the chapter, notes that the region is already known in Mexico as the Texas medical center.

Trade Mission The chapter supported a trade mission organized by Monica Sanchez of the Texas Economic Development Office in Mexico City. More than 50 Mexican entrepreneurs attended the event along with David Vassar, Ph.D., a contributing expert for the Baker Institute Latin America Initiative of Rice University; Mario Garcia of Calvetti Furgeson; and Pete Garcia.

LEAP This year the chamber launched its LEAP (Leaders and Executive Accelerated Program) for both members and non-members. The program consists of two- and three-hour executive-level educational courses held on monthly and bimonthly.

The courses are not introductory like “Learn Excel” or “How to Use Quickbooks”; they are designed as educational courses for executives and

are presented by executives on the chamber’s board and academics such as Dr. Beena George of the University of St. Thomas.

This is another way to maximize the benefits for our membership and encourage other companies to join us.

Networking for Opportunities The chapter is hosting monthly “Networking for Opportunities” mixers as a forum for our members and guests to gather and discuss current business trends in Texas and Mexico as the new legislative reforms such as the energy reform take hold in Mexico.

The Woodlands’ wide brand recognition in Mexico, its recently constructed health facilities and their close proximity to the George Bush Intercontinental Airport which is only 20 minutes away, gives the area an advantage as a location for medical tourism.

More Airline Access between Houston and Mexico Several major airlines, including chapter members United, AeroMexico and Interjet, are adding flights between Houston and Mexico providing more seat availability and lower airfares to the region. Other airlines have also entered the Houston-Mexico market.

PHOTO 1 Monica Sanchez and Pete Garcia.

PHOTO 2 David Vassar of Rice University, Mario Garcia of CalvettiFurgeson and Pete Garcia.

PHOTO 3 LEAP.- Tazkia Rahim, Mario Garcia, Ceci Lopez, Oscar Mejia, Verónica Pérez, Pete Garcia, Dr. Beena George and Fernando Sanchez.

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Northwest Chapter Seattle, WA PHOTO 1 Luis Navarro, Port SR Director Port of Seattle S.R. Director ; Luis Morris, president Northwest Chapter; Al Zapanta CEO USMCOC; JohnDiaz, Vicepresident USMCOCNW.

PHOTO 2 Holguer Blankenstein.

June 30, 2016

July 8, 2016

NW Chapter board members Luis Navarro, Luis Morris and John Diaz recognized Al Zapanta, for his leadership as president and CEO of the chamber and for his service to our country. The luncheon was hosted by the Airport of Seattle at the international Terminal B conference room, and was attended by board members, government officials and leaders of the community.

Volaris Airlines and the Port of Seattle hosted another reception at the Columbia Tower Club to celebrate the airline’s new service. The event was attended by government officials, leaders of the community, regional news and media and chambers of commerce.

times a week.

PHOTO 3 Schuyler Hoss, Dr. Roberto Dondisch Glowinsky, Lance Lyttle, Seattle International Airport Director; Miguel Aguiñiga R. U.S. Mexico marketing director; Kazue Ishiwata Airport International Affairs Director, and Luis Morris.

PHOTO 4 Luis Morris and Honorable Dr. Roberto Dondisch.

The chapter and the Port of Seattle also recognized Miguel Aguiñiga, Volaris Airlines president of sales, for his airline’s new service between Seattle, Washington and Guadalajara, Mexico, scheduled to fly three

Volaris’s chief commercial officer, Holguer Blankenstein, was among the guest speakers along with Courtney Gregoire, commissioner of the Port of Seattle; Mike Sotelo; Dr. Roberto Dondisch, newly-elected Consul of Mexico in Seattle; Zaira Gutierrez from the promotion office of Guadalajara; Silvia Meneses and Christian Cervantes, Volaris executives; Kazue Ishiwata; and Luis Navarrro from the Port of Seattle.

The announcement was made by Kazue Ishiwata, senior manager of business development for international flights, and Lance Lyttle, airport director.

Also attending the event were the newly appointed consul of Mexico in Seattle, Dr. Roberto Dondisch; Schuyler Hoss from the Governor’s Office for International Affairs; and by Luis Morris, chapter president.

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Luis Morris, chapter president, recognized Dr. Roberto Dondisch as the honorary president of the chapter. The ceremony was held at the Columbia Tower Club Harvest Dinner Room.

At a private event held at the University Club of Portland, Oregon, Luis Morris recognized Francisco Maass, Consul of Mexico in Portland as the Honorary President of the U.S.-Mexico Chamber of Commerce NW - Portland Chapter.

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Inter-American Chapter Miami, FL

Trade Mission to Mexico On May 11, 2016, Enrique de la Madrid, Mexico’s secretary of tourism, met with chapter members and Florida companies as part of a trade mission to Mexico organized by Enterprise Florida, Inc. (EFI), a public-private partnership designed to grow the state’s economy.

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Quarterly Breakfast On May 4, 2016, the chapter hosted its quarterly breakfast series, “Practical Aspects of Doing Business in Mexico.” Distinguished panelists included: Mauricio Ortiz, vice president and general manager with Boston Scientific Latin America; Pilar Flores, general counsel with SAP Latin America (SAP); and Moises Peraza, trade & investment commissioner with PROMEXICO. The event was moderated by Rosa Ertze, special counsel at Duane Morris LLP in New York. Chapter members and guests had an opportunity to learn about the current business environment, regulatory considerations and how to overcome unique challenges of starting a business in Mexico.

During his presentation, Secretary De la Madrid spoke about the positive current economic and political environment in Mexico and the many opportunities for investment. He applauded the business owners present, stating that their presence and willingness to travel to Mexico shows that “the relationship is not just economic, but is a friendship that has benefited both countries.”

PHOTO 1

Seminar with Women Business Leaders On June 21, 2016, the chapter co-hosted the first in a multi-series seminar entitled Intégrate y Empodérate! This interactive seminar was led by a panel of Hispanic women business leaders including Teresa Villareal, vice president, Newlink Communications; Mildred Gomez, attorney with Bilzin Sumberg Baena Price & Axelrod LLP; Victoria Kenn, managing director, Brickell & KB Moms; Alexia Gonzalez, CEO with (My Man Is Not) My Plan; and Ana Paula Padilla, an attorney with Dicex International.

Topics discussed among the panelists and attendees included: - “What Challenges Are Encountered in Finding the Right Fit in a New Country?”

- “Important Legal Questions to Consider in Moving to the U.S.”; and - “What Educational Alternatives does South Florida Offer?”

Moises Peraza, Rosa Ertze, Duane Morris, Pilar Flores, Mauricio Ortiz, and Miles Plaskett.

PHOTO 2 Mexico’s Secretary of Tourism, Enrique de la Madrid and participants at a briefing on May 11, 2016.

PHOTO 3 Victoria Kennedy, Mildred Gomez, Teresa Villareal and Alexia Gonzalez.

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Pacific Chapter

Guadalajara, Jal.

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he U.S.-Mexico Chamber of Commerce Pacific Chapter, has always worked for its members to help them grow their businesses through exceptional international networking events where participants share their valuable experiences and knowledge with each other bringing value to the attendees with resulting success.

PHOTO 1 Ambassador Juan B. Sosa, during the welcoming breakfast.

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PHOTO 2 Francisco Castellanos, President of the USMCOC Pacifico Chapter, and Ambassador Juan B. Sosa.

PHOTO 3 Francisco Castellanos delivers a recognition to Monica Sánchez, Director of NAFTA and representant of the Texas government.

May 2016

June 2016

The chapter program, “Houston Gateway to the Americas,” was designed to strengthen the relationship between Houston and its Jalisco partners in order to grow markets and help their facilities internationalize their businesses.

Chapter members were privileged to attend a networking program featuring Monica Sánchez, director of the Texas NAFTA office and Economic Development and Tourism Division of the governor’s office. and representative of the Texas government.

One of the valuable benefits of international networking is the opportunity to get in touch with business executives who are looking for alliances with others. Through the program, attendees are able to get in touch with people and brands that will allow them to grow and expand their businesses.

Sánchez shared her experience with the business world as well as the opportunities that the government of Texas is offering to its Mexican people.

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Guanajuato Chapter León, Gto.

Dissemination of Knowledge in International Trade and Sustainability

PHOTO 1 Companies of Guanajuato being recognized with the distinctive merit internationalization.

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he U.S. Mexico Chamber of Commerce Guanajuato Chapter has focused its activities on two main topics: international trade and sustainability. The chapter plans to advise, train and create business strategies that produce more profitability, more competitivness, and a more friendly business environment—especially for labor leaders in the two countries—for both of these issues.

The chapter’s efforts in achieving these objectives began with two fórums:

Recognition to Joseph Chapa.

June 14, 2016

Development of the Third International Forum on Sustainability and Social Responsibility. The mayor of the city of Leon -Hector Lopezduring his speech.

PHOTO 2

PHOTO 3

First Guanajuato International Trade Forum and Delivery of Awards to the Internalization The main goal of this forum was to update the attendees about the priority issues in international trade and help them develop and implement tools and strategies in their companies to achieve the most effective ways to reach their goals.

The chapter brought together nationally and internationally recognized experts who shared their experiences and knowledge. The forum was attended by the mayor of the city of Leon, Héctor Lopez; president of the Guanajuato chapter, Antonio Vargas; president of CONCAMIN Bajio, Ricardo Alaniz; the CEO of COFOCE, Luis Rojas; the director of International Trade in KPMG, Cesar Buenrostro; assistant director of Customs of Guanajuato, Cesar Buenrostro; USMCOC vice-president, Francisco Catellanos; and the director of graduate at De la Salle University Bajio, Patricia Villasana. Joseph Chapa was also honored by being appointed Honorary President of Chapter Guanajuato.

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July 13, 2016

Third International Forum on Sustainability and Social Responsibility This forum —the third on this topic—aimed to establish the event as an important resource to introduce participants to practices and opportunities that the business sector and communities can develop and implement for eco-efficiency and sustainability.

The event was attended by 160 people from more than 60 companies. The topics covered included: creation of shared values by Nestle, Mexico; sustainable housing by Mazda and Beneficiadora de Alambres; how to communicate sustainability and social responsibility by MVS Radio; water and the business sector by Heineken and Guanajuato state water commission; mobility and its relationship to the environment by Proyecta Vitrans; and sustainable projects for the state of Guanajuato by the state’s secretary of economic development.

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PHOTO 4 Opening the Third International Forum of Sustainability and Social Responsibility.

From left to right director of Economy Leon, consul of Japan in Leon, chairman USMCOC, mayor of Leon, president USMCOC Chapter Guanajuato, undersecretary for Economic Development Guanajuato, director USMCOC Chapter Guanajuato, director Environmental Management Leon.

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Michoacán Chapter Morelia, Mich.

Mexico’s businesses as there had not been a trade agreement.

The countries Mexico will be able to trade with are: Australia, Brunei, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore and Vietnam.

Combined, these countries represent a market of 155 million potential consumers.

C PHOTO 1 Silvano Aureoles, governor of the state of Michoacán, addressing the leaders of the private sector and universities during the visit of Mexico’s Secretary of Commerce Idelfonso Guajardo.

hapter president Nick Ortiz, chapter board members, private sector business executives and academics attended a luncheon hosted by Governor Silvano Aureles Conejo for Mexico’s Secretary of the Economy, Idelfoso Guajarado Villarreal.

During his visit, Guajardo made a public commitment to the governor to establish a working agenda for the importance it represents for Michoacán stating, “The state and its ports, from the signing of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), will be a strategic focal point to new regions of the world.”

He said that the TPP is the most important commercial instrument in this century.

“The 12 economies participating in the agreement represent 25 percent of global trade, more than one third of global GDP (36 percent) and

account for more than one quarter (28 percent) of foreign direct investment worldwide.”

With this agreement, he added, Mexican products will have access to six markets not previously available to

Guajardo also stressed that the TPP is part of President Enrique Peña Nieto’s strategy to diversify Mexico’s trade with the world. Mexico is already party to several trade partners including the U.S. and Canada through NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement), Pacific Alliance, Free Trade Agreement with the European Union (TLCUEM) and the European Free Trade Association, as well as free trade agreements being negotiated with Turkey and Jordan.

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Valle de Mexico Chapter Mexico, City

Chapter Launches 2016 Training Cycle for Exporting to U.S.

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his past April, José Garcia Torres, president of the Valle de Mexico Chapter of the U.S.-Mexico Chamber of Commerce, inaugurated the 2016 Training Cycle. This effort consists of six sessions that examine the main issues companies must resolve in order to make inroads into the United States market.

First Session

PHOTO 1 Jose Garcia Torres, Ana Cecilia Molina Loyola and Mauricio Jaramillo.

PHOTO 2 Miguel Angel Leaman Rivas.

The first session of this cycle was taught

by Ana Cecilia Molina Loyola and Mauricio Jaramillo, both executive partners in the company Goodrich, Riquelme & Asociados, members of our chapter. The topic, “Foreign Trade Procedures, Regulatory Framework and Export Plan,” focused on the legal area.

The aim of this session was to provide important information to help companies learn about the essential regulations governing foreign trade activity with the neighboring country. The legal requirements presented included an overview of the process and risk management associated with foreign trade.

Jaramillo emphasized the importance of the Foreign Trade Law, as well as those related to the import and export general taxes.

Molina detailed the current options for establishing a company as an exporter including a list of all documents needed for registration.

The information delivered by the panelists in this first session helped chapter members identify the areas that their companies need to strengthen to increase success as exporters to the United States.

Second Session The second meeting of the chapter’s 2016 Training Cycle occurred on May 17. This session was designed for the SME (small and medium-size enterprises) members. Miguel Angel Leaman Rivas, executive director of Internationalization Projects of Mexican Companies, Export Promotion Unit (EPU) of PROMÉXICO was the presenter.

The aim of the session was to present the range of opportunities available to SMEs in the American market, in addition to all the supports that PROMEXICO offers to assist companies in the global markets including contracts and agreements, government support for exports, terms of negotiations in the United States and basic concepts of international marketing.

Leaman emphasized the need for each company’s brand to provide value. The company must identify the characteristics and needs of the target market in the neighboring country. In addition, he shared examples of success stories of different brands and categories.

Also discussed were specific strategies and recommendations every company should consider when planning to enter the U.S. market.

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Manzanillo Port

Gerardo Ruiz Esparza, Secretary of Communications and Transportationtation of Mexico.

INFRASTRUCTURE DRIVING MEXICO’S DEVELOPMENT

I

munications towers installed. Countries with high economic and competitive growth are reaping the benefits of having built and investing in modern and efficient infrastructure.

Infrastructure opens doors to progress and social inclusion wherever new roads, railroads and ports are built or telecom-

In the twenty-first century, new infrastructure must address the challenges posed, on the one hand, by market trends and businesses for economic expansion beyond borders and, on the

nfrastructure is at the core of Mexico’s economy—it supports foreign trade, reduces transport costs and timing, and promotes the circulation of goods and services, as well as the dissemination of knowledge and information.1

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Veracruz Port

other hand, by the dizzying development of information and communication technologies Both factors have created2 the need to attend to the transportation of people, the distribution of goods, as well as the transmission of knowledge and information with a logistical vision: in a faster and more agile way, with better connectivity and at lower cost. Achieving the foregoing contributes to strengthening the productive and commercial sectors’ competitiveness of any country.

This is the focus and relevance of the National Infrastructure Program 2013-2018 (PNI), developed by the Secretariat of Communications and Transportation (SCT) under the vision and leadership of President Enrique Peña Nieto.

The program is aimed at transforming Mexico into a global logistics platform with high value added, whose

main purpose is to assemble production and commercial chains through logistics corridors connecting the various modalities for the transportation of people and goods.

So far in this administration, we have made significant progress with the guidance of PNI. Eighty-one percent of Mexico’s production uses roads and highways to transport goods.

At the start of this administration it was essential to improve ground transport connectivity. We have developed one of the most ambitious road programs in our country’s history: the extension and construction of 52 new highways with almost 2,000 miles and we have already completed 15 miles. In addition, 80 federal roads are being built and modernized of which 53 have been completed, and almost 16,000 of feeder roads have been built and improved.

Trains and Airports We have relaunched passenger trains as a modern, safe and environmentally-friendly transportation alternative. In this way, and with the aim of improving the quality of life and productivity of Mexicans, the Interurban Mexico-Toluca Train and the Electric Train of Guadalajara’s Metropolitan Area are being built. Both projects already have significant advances and are scheduled to begin operations during the next administration. One aspect of great significance is the fact that they are high technology trains. One of them, the Mexico-Toluca project, is the first high-speed train in the Americas.

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Ixtapaluca

Santa Fe

An essential element in increasing logistical competitiveness is port infrastructure as more than two thirds of the world’s commerce moves in sea transport.

At the start of the current administration, Mexico faced the challenge of port saturation. In response to that situation, we set out to double operations envelope and go from 260 million tons a year to more than 500 million. To date, we have reached an annual capacity of 370 million tons and, by the end of 2016, we should reach 400.

The construction of the new airport in Veracruz and Tuxpan stands out, as well as the expansion of the ports of Altamira, Lazaro Cardenas, and Manzanillo, among others.

We have also made timely progress on the construction of the new International Airport of Mexico City, a work announced

by President Peña Nieto at the end of 2014, and which will become the most important hub airport in Latin America.

Currently, we have met the objectives set in the project’s master plan.

Out of the 21 bid packages announced, six have been bid, outstanding are those related to foundation and construction of the terminal building, the control tower, and runways 2 and 3.

Telecommunications The constitutional amendment regarding telecommunications has allowed us to lead Mexico toward the digital era. Nowadays, we have more competition, investments, and connectivity, as well as more quality and lower prices in services. Nearly $6.5 billion has been invested in the sector, which will be added to the nearly $15 billion to be invested in the years to come.

This investment has already influenced penetration of the mobile broadband service, going from 22 to 57 subscribers for every 100 inhabitants, and increasing internet connectivity from 7.9 to 11.4 million households—more than one out of three households in our country has the service now.

From June 2013 to December 2015, the rates for various telecommunication services decreased by an average of 23 percent; long distance telephone charges were eliminated which resulted in savings that amount to more than $10 billion annually, as well as reductions in mobile service of 20 percent and international long distance of 41 percent.

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The Mexican government, through the SCT, is taking action in the construction and modernization of infrastructure to respond to the fast-paced growth experienced by some sectors of our economy.

As a result of our solid economic stability and the implementation of structural reforms, we have already seen positive changes. Reforms such as the energy reform demands more and better infrastructure in many ways, for example, ports in oil รกreas. The telecommunications reform requires more competition, wider coverage, better rates and service qua-lity, aspects in which we have already begun to see changes.

1. World Bank Group, Sustainable Infrastructure Action Plan, 2008.

2. World Bank Group, World Development Report 2016: Digital Dividends, 2016.

Libramiento Mazatlรกn

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IMPROVING AND STRENGTHENING TRANSPORTATION BETWEEN U.S. AND MEXICO Deputy Secretary for the U.S. Department of Transportation talks about the importance of supporting travel and transportation between Mexico and the U.S. along the border and in the air.

Victor Mendez is the Deputy Secretary for the United States Department of Transportation.

T

ravel begins and ends with transportation. Whether it’s by car, plane, train, or ship, we are all dependent on transportation to get us to our destination. And for the millions of people who travel between the U.S. and Mexico each year, that destination is just across the border.

that we have the safest, most efficient and affordable transportation systems in place between our two countries.

But transportation is more than just moving people from point A to point B—it connects our populations to a world of possibilities, it opens doors and creates opportunities in our communities that otherwise would not be accessible. That’s why it’s essential we continue to invest our resources and our energy to ensure

In 2015 alone, more than 181 million people crossed into the U.S. from Mexico through one of the 25 U.S. Southern Border Land Ports of Entry (POE) and even more entered through air travel.

That number will only continue to grow as both of our populations continue to grow, which means it’s our responsibility

So, how do we do that and what does it look like? Here at the U.S. Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT), we’re making it a priority to figure that out.

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to build our transportation systems to not only to take people places, but design them in a way that transforms communities for the better. If we do that, these systems have the potential to improve the economies and environments of the communities along our border by creating more jobs, improving our bilateral relations and reducing the amount of greenhouse gas emissions in those areas.

This is why U.S. DOT has been working with the Mexican government and other various bilateral forums such as U.S.-Mexico High Level Economic Dialogue and the 21st Century Border Initiative to implement the use of intelligent transportation systems and bring into force the new U.S.-Mexico Air Transport Agreement. We are doing all of this in an effort to support our continued relationship with Mexico and make travel more accessible for our citizens.

But, in order to do that, we have to take an honest look at our current systems to determine what is working and what is not and develop practical solutions that fill the gap. It’s no secret that long wait times and traffic congestion plague our shared border. This is something that we have been investing a lot of time and research into fixing.

One thing we have seen is that the use of intelligent transportation technology, such as Bluetooth and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) systems, can significantly improve the accuracy of wait time information. In very broad terms, these innovative, forward-thinking systems use existing software and technology infrastructure to anonymously collect data from various enabled devices around border crossings to monitor traffic. They then share this data with drivers, various agencies, border patrol staff and online portals to help inform travel decisions.

For example, say you’re driving from California to Mexico through the busiest land POE in North America—San Ysidro, CA. With this system, you might receive a message along the way alerting you to long wait times at the port, which could help you better prepare for your trip and conversely allow the POE to make the necessary adjustments to efficiently handle the influx in traffic.

Currently, the U.S.-Mexico Joint Working Committee on Transportation Planning is reviewing the border wait time data and technology at number of U.S.-Mexico border crossings to determine how to better utilize the data to further facilitate travel in

Alliance

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these areas. The goal is to one day have a system that is fully connected, information-rich and standardized across federal, state and local entities.

Another tool in our arsenal that is underway to help advance travel between the U.S. and Mexico is bringing the new U.S.-Mexico Air Transport Agreement into force. This agreement, which has been in the works between U.S. DOT, the U.S. Department of State, and the Mexican government for more than two years, aims to increase trade and travel with Mexico and is currently being entered into force. The significance of this agreement cannot be understated—not only will it benefit travelers, but it will also expand the market to more U.S. and Mexican airlines, businesses and airports for passenger and cargo airlines to fly between any city in Mexico and the U.S. Recently, both countries have seen extreme interest from airlines, plainly demonstrating a demand for a modern agreement such as this. Ultimately, it removes barriers under the existing agreement, allowing for new destinations to be added which will mean lower prices for passengers and businesses and will, in turn, strengthen the commercial, economic and

tourism relationship between our two countries. To support this effort and others like it, U.S. DOT is in the process of establishing the National Advisory Committee on Travel and Tourism Infrastructure that will provide recommendations to our secretary of transportation on how to improve tourism in the U.S. and other countries through transportation.

With technology changing faster than we can keep up with, and our populations on the rise, it’s more important than ever to develop ways to collaboratively share new ideas and develop policies that help us ensure our transportation systems are working for the people they serve by connecting them to the places, services and people that matter most.

The next generation of transportation needs to create pathways of opportunity for everyone and not limit how, when and where we travel. So, just looking at the steps we’ve already taken and the things we are working toward, I’m optimistic that the U.S. and Mexico are on the right path to making that a reality. I believe that together, we can shape the future of travel between our countries for the better.

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PANAMA AND HOUSTON STRENGTHEN STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP

By Amb. Juan Sosa, general consul of Panama in Houston.

The expansion of the Panama Canal has created the opportunity for Houston—and the state of Texas—to become the Gateway to the Central Region of the United States and to the Americas.

If the proper actions are taken, it will be a game changer.

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he Panama Canal inaugurated its third set of locks on June 26, 2016 amid a wave of enthusiasm that large infrastructure projects usually have in a small country.

In the case of Panama, the expansion of the canal goes well beyond emotion as the country updates its stature as one of the premier trade corridors in the world.

For Panama, this is nothing new. The country, whose seal reads Pro Mundi Beneficio (for the benefit of the world), has a 500-year history serving the world’s trade needs beginning with the first trade corridor in continental America when a trail was established between the port of Portobelo in the Atlantic Ocean and Panama City in the Pacific. This route served to move people, goods and gold from South America to Spain. Portobelo became famous for its 40-day fairs where trading was done between the old and new world.

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In 1848, a maritime route was established between the east and west coasts of the United States and a land bridge across the Isthmus. This was complemented in 1856 with the construction of the first cross-continent railroad whose main mission was transporting people from the east coast of the U.S. to the west coast who were attracted by gold discoveries in California. Panama became the “gold route” as the precious metal was shipped back to the east coast through Panama.

Panama again made history in 1914 as the United States built the Panama Canal at a cost of $375 million—the largest infrastructure project undertaken by the U.S. at that time. The results of the canal during the first half of the century were modest as the world was affected by the cautious post World War I period, the great depression, an increase in import duties, and then World War II. The second half of the twentieth century was another story. Countries became part of trade groups, free trade agreements were signed, trade became an integral part of the diplomatic agenda, container cargo made its appearance and the economies of the Far East became key trading partners with the Americas, most notably, China at the end of the twentieth century. With more trade and bigger ships, the Panama Canal that was built with a 100-year vision, became too small for the bigger ships that were being built and could not transit the old canal.

Panama assumed full responsibility for the administration of the canal on December 31, 1999 in compliance with the Torrijos-Carter Canal Treaty of 1977.

The administration of the canal gave Panama control over its most precious asset and the country recognized that the canal and surrounding areas could be the engine of growth of the country. In 2006, Panamanians approved a referendum by 79 percent to expand the canal, an enterprise that was inaugurated in June 2016 at a cost of more than $5 billion.

The expansion of the canal allows bigger container ships that will bring economies of scale and give Houston and Texas the potential to handle cargo destined for the central region of the United States, a territory of 14 states, 82 million people and twenty of the top 100 metropolitan regions of the country.

The implementation of projects that provide Houston and Texas a competitive advantage over west coast ports could be a game changer for designing

new trade routes, improving infrastructure in the state, enhancing what are already premier logistics centers in the United States, Houston and Dallas- Fort Worth. This can enhance what is already a robust trade corridor by increasing trade especially with the Far East and the Pacific south and Central America.

Dramatic changes are already taking place in the state. The Port of Houston installed four new post-panamax cranes at its Baytown container terminal last year and recently approved the acquisition of three more. Improvements have been made in the handling of containers at the port and the operation of its multi-modal terminal. A new route of a ship with 6,700 TEUs (twenty foot equivalent unit, the capacity of a container ship), has been inaugurated and the logistic platform is clearly in expansion.

South of Houston, the Port of Freeport is working with the counties of Brazoria, Fort Bend and Waller to establish a trade corridor from Freeport to Rosenberg, a railroad hub in an effort to connect to Dallas-Fort Worth, the main in-land port in the United States. Port Freeport recently inaugurated a container terminal that is serving Mexico, Central America, Panama and the Caribbean.

The lieutenant governor of Texas, Dan Patrick, has appointed a special select committee in the Texas Senate to study the impact of the Panama Canal expansion on Texas ports. Texas has more deep water ports than any other state and several have connections with the Panama Canal. With the development of liquid natural gas (LNG) terminals in Port Arthur/ Beaumont, Port Freeport and Corpus Christi, the expanded Panama Canal will allow transit of LNG ships to the Far East, increasing export opportunities for the United States.

Mexico will also benefit. The improvements in the infrastructure of the state and the enhancement of trade corridors with logistics support will improve transportation patterns between Mexico and Texas, making trade more efficient and improving even more the large trade that exists between the two countries.

In conclusion, the opportunities for Texas are enormous but so are the challenges that will require taking appropriate actions within a reasonable time frame to improve trade corridors and strengthen economic opportunities. This will be the real game changer.

Alliance

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Mexico: Logistics and Transport Platform of the World

By Rogelio Montemayor Morineau

MEXICO AIMS TO BECOME THE GREAT LOGISTICS AND TRANSPORT PLATFORM OF THE WORLD. IT HAS THE IDEAL CONDITIONS TO ACCOMPLISH THIS GOAL WHERE THE DIFFERENT MODES OF TRANSPORTATION COME TOGETHER WITH A SYSTEMATIC VISION: FACE THE GLOBAL TREND OF THE INCREASINGLY DEMANDING MARKETS.

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owadays, “collaboration and integration” are key words to confront a world of accelerated transformations, where the way of doing things has changed. Diversification takes greater strength in the increasingly reduced distance and close relationship between the regions of our planet.

In the world of trade where markets and economies seek the most efficient methods of exchanging goods, trade considers precisely the integration and collaboration of its elements to integrate an efficient and modern system of transport and logistics.

This is why the Mexican Council of Transport and Logistics (CMET) was conceived, believing and accepting that different modes of transportation can coexist and are integrated into the system of global trade for the most demanding markets.

The efficient mobility of goods and people in a country is fundamental to its evolution.

Mexico has the opportunity to become a great platform of transport and logistics worldwide. The organizations inside the CMET aim to develop the ideal systems to position Mexico as a world leader in logistics with a competitive edge where all the modes of transportation complement each other to become more efficient.

This year I have the honor to lead a council taking on the challenges of developing the best transportation system in our country able to become a logistics epicenter of global trade which is why is it so important to define inter- and multi-modal policies.

In this great challenge, the participation of government authorities, legislators and stakeholders must work together to establish a comprehensive policy that establishes logistics, infrastructure and transportation to achieve the goal.

The transportation sector is a critical component in our country’s economy and demands creation of a legal instrument that allows the country to enhance our strengths and creates the foundation for a great logistics platform that will lead Mexico to become a relevant player partner worldwide.

Mexico shares more than 1,800 miles of border with the United States with the world’s largest economy and 6,000 miles of coastline in the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.

Mexico also has more than 12 foreign trade agreements with 46 countries (FTAs), 32 Invest Promotion and Protection Agreements (IPPAs) with 33 countries, and nine Economic Complementation

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and Partial Scope Agreements within the framework of the Latin American Integration Association (ALADI), and it is a member of Association Treaty Transpacific (TPP).

Furthermore, Mexico participates actively in international and multilateral organizations such as the World Trade Organization (WTO), Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

Our industry requires new models of development. We must be flexible in order to change existing paradigms and pursue excellence to meet market demands.

The various modes of cargo transportation give us a dynamic economy that moves 936 million tons annually: Road transportation - 55.9 percent Rail transportation - 12.8 percent Maritime transportation - 31.2 percent Air transportation - one percent We have strong and thriving commercial activity and a positive trade balance. It is essential to generate conditions of connectivity and infrastructure for each mode of transportation in order to decrease

the time to move goods and people. We believe the congress should take action on this matter, designing legislation to promote public policies, making possible the correct operation of a process for international multi-modal transportation in Mexico.

Industrial activity in Mexico shows accelerated growth. Industries such as automotive, aerospace, agriculture and tourism remain positive and constantly developing which is why Mexican companies demand better quality and competitive cost efficiencies in the national transportation system to support the production volumes of our country.

The chambers and associations integrating the Mexican Council of Transport and Logistics are enthusiastically promoting the great effort to make Mexico a major global logistics center.

Certainly this project will have a positive impact on the economy and generate high productivity and opportunities.

Transportation would be an essential part of the integration of the supply chain.

This is the vision of the Mexican Council of Transport and Logistics. For these reasons, we want to continue transporting the country’s goods and keep moving forward to reach our full potential for development and prosperity.

Members of the Mexican Council of Transport and Logistics: 1. Asociación Mexicana de Ferrocarriles (AMF), Railways 2. Asociación Mexicana de Mensajería y Paquetería (AMMPAC), LTL 3. Cámara

Mexicana

de

la

Industria

del

Transporte

Marítimo

(CAMEINTRAM), Maritime 4. Cámara Nacional de Aerotransportes (CANAERO), Air Rogelio Montemayor Morineau is president of the Mexican Council of Transport and Logistics (CMET) and the Cámara Nacional del Autotransporte de Carga (CANACAR)

5. Cámara Nacional del Autotransporte de Carga (CANACAR), Trucking Cámara Nacional del Autotransporte de Pasaje y Turismo (CANAPAT), 6. Passenger Transportation

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CUSTOMS: THE COMMUNICATION ROUTES OF MEXICO TO THE WORLD

By Ricardo Treviño Chapa, Administrator General of Customs

C

an you imagine doing a foreign trade operation without even realizing when you crossed the border? That is precisely the objective we have set for ourselves at the Administration General of Customs.

Although it will be an arduous process and will take time, it is fully possible and we are already working on it. In this administration we seek to change paradigms: make trust the base of foreign

trade operations among all players in the logistics chain.

We are aware, however, that we cannot neglect the safety of trade which is why we have established certification as the model to combine trust with security.

Consequently, all companies that prove their good practices through various certifications issued by the Tax Administration Service (Servicio de Administración Tributaria, SAT), such as the VAT-IEPS

(Value Added Tax-Products and Services Tax) certification or the Nuevo Esquema de Empresas Certificadas (NEEC), may enjoy benefits such as more agile and less expensive customs clearance which will boost their operations while making national foreign trade more competitive.

There are many projects that we are promoting from the Mexican Customs, but I want to highlight the main ones, those that have a greater impact for users:

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Cargo Pre-Inspection Program The most transcendent of these projects might be the Cargo Pre-Inspection Program. It originated from the Bilateral Customs Strategic Plan that Mexico signed with the United States in 2014. This is an innovative program that allows us to speed up the transit of goods between Mexico and the United States, since it provides that SAT and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials conduct joint customs inspections at the exporting country facilities that translates into a much more dynamic and profitable customs clearance.

We are currently operating two Cargo Pre-Inspection pilot programs with a third to launch the third quarter of this year: The first pilot program at the Laredo Texas International Airport, launched in October 2015, is focused on the import of goods from the automotive, electronics and aerospace industries bound for eight Mexican airports. The number of companies participating in the program has grown 70 percent since its creation, and among the benefits reported by participating companies, 50 percent savings in costs and 60 percent in clearance times, stand out. SAT and CBP currently evaluate the program results to make decisions in terms of their modification, extension or expansion to other products, sectors, origins and destinations.

The second pilot program takes place at the Garita de Otay facility in Tijuana customs for agricultural products exported from Mexico to the United States. It was inaugurated on January 12, 2016. SAT and CBP have processed more than 2,100 shipments / trucks through July 1 with commercial value of more than $181 million and a volume of more than 20 thousand tons.

The pilot reports important benefits in customs clearance times: the traditional way can take up to five hours, assuming revision on both sides of the border. With the pilot, clearance times have been reduced to an average of 45 minutes with joint inspection and up to 15 minutes without it.

During the second half of this year we will launch the third pilot program at the San Jeronimo Industrial Park, in Chihuahua. We will process, on average, 200 trucks daily, containing between 30,000 and 40,000 computers and other electronic products bound for the United States.

Customs Processing at Export Facilities The second project that I want to stress is the customs processing at the export facilities, also called Despacho a Domicilio (clearance warehouse), launched on March 7, 2016. It allows exporters to close clearance processes from its facilities through electronic means and thereby avoid congestions at customs. Thus, a process that previously took between two and three hours queuing at peak times, takes just a few minutes under this project.

Direct Customs Clearance The third trust-based project we have implemented is the Direct Customs Clearance which allows importers and exporters to process their goods through a legal representative without the intervention of a customs broker.

The first Customs Clearance operation occurred on April 14. The concept of the legal representative facilitates foreign trade, since, as part of the company, representatives have greater knowledge about their goods, increasing safety, efficiency and dynamism.

To date, the General Administration of Customs has authorized 17 companies to participate in the Direct Customs Clearance.

In Summary‌ These are only three of the most important projects we are developing in close collaboration with the industry, the private sector and the government of the United States. These three programs are aimed at making the intervention of the customs authority increasingly imperceptible without neglecting security in the logistics chain, rewarding good business practices and adhering to the law.

The Mexican government officials are fully convinced that collaboration and trust are the necessary foundation to continue making Mexico an increasingly competitive market whose benefits reach not only businesses but have a positive impact on job creation and the economic levels of our country.

We have much work ahead and we are focused on taking customs beyond a division of markets to become the communication routes for foreign trade. I am convinced that through commitment and constant communication with stakeholders, we will achieve this assignment soon.

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CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS U.S.-MEXICO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

An Interview with Dr. José Zozaya

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osé Zozaya was born on May 24, 1952 in Mexico City. He earned a law degree from the Universidad Iberoamericana with advanced studies in corporate law and economic competition from Instituto Tecnológico Autónomo de México, commonly known as ITAM. He also participated in the executive program in international management at Thunderbird University in Arizona and in the management program for lawyers at Yale University. He has over 40 years of experience in government relations and legal affairs, as well as in mergers and acquisitions.

Zozaya was appointed president, general manager and executive representative of Kansas City Southern de México (KCSM) in April 2006. Prior to joining the executive team at KCSM, he was legal and relations government director of ExxonMobil Mexico for nine years.

He was the national president of the American Chamber for two terms, 2010 to 2012, and vice president of the Executive Council of Global Enterprises from 2010 to 2013. He served as president of the Mexican Association of Railroads from 2013 to 2015.

He is currently vice president of the American Chamber and the Association of American Chambers of Latin America. He was appointed chairman of the board of directors of the United States-Mexico Chamber of Commerce in May 2016.

“I’m certain that the railroad will become a rolling pipeline, positioning itself as one of the best means of transportation for oil, gas and petroleum derivatives due to its safety and efficiency.”

Alliance: Taking into consideration your experience as president and executive representative for Kansas City Southern de México what is your opinion of Mexico’s energy reform?

Zozaya: Mexico’s energy reform has been one of the country’s main topics of discussion since it was enacted in 2013, due to its expected impact on the economy.

Mexico is now on a path toward its energy market’s transformation. For the first time in seventy-six years, private companies will be able to participate in oil and gas exploration and production, which has made Mexico a competitive destination for upstream investment.

Although Mexico’s oil industry has been hit by the global downturn in oil prices and budget cuts, President Enrique Peña Nieto’s announcement of speeding the liberalization of the fuel market beginning this past April to lure investment and push down prices for consumers, regained investors’ confidence in the reform.

According to the Mexican government’s forecasts, the energy overhaul will bring in $62.5 billion in investment by 2018.

A: Is Mexico prepared to face the challenges of successfully implementing the energy reform?

Z: Mexico is undertaking a complete transformation of its energy sector and creating the conditions to become more competitive.

As Mexico deregulates its oil industry, it is opening one of the largest fuel marketing and retail opportunities on the horizon. This, in turn, will boost several sectors of the economy, offering new opportunities for investors and consumers, as well as for all connected operations in the value and supply chains.

The energy reform’s benefits will extend beyond Mexico’s own economy, strengthening economic ties and fostering more integration across North America.

With energy reform underway, one of the biggest opportunities is the need to develop the infrastructure and transportation logistics to support new exploration and production activities. Significant investments will be needed to accelerate the infrastructure buildout required.

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Public-private partnerships could be used to finance, build and operate projects and help fill the gap in this matter. They will allow the government and the private sector to work together and share resources on key projects, as a way to boost productivity and economic development.

While challenges remain, the government and the private sector have demonstrated their intention to act quickly and efficiently in order to support the development of this new pattern of growth and production.

A: How will the energy reform impact the U.S.-Mexico bilateral relation?

Z: Mexico is one of United States’ major trading partners and vice versa, so economic growth in Mexico is of great importance for the region. Energy is an input to nearly every good and service in the economy. For this reason, a more dynamic and interconnected energy market will trigger economic growth.

A: How can the energy reform boost Mexican freight railway transportation?

Z: The railroad can feasibly deliver gas, diesel and gasoline to and from Mexico to help eliminate the shortages caused by refinery outages and increasing demand, as well as relieving pressure on the pipeline infrastructure which will contribute to improved reliability of the supply.

Until the pipeline infrastructure can be expanded, using the railway is one of the best viable short-term solutions for hydrocarbons distribution.

Transporting crude oil by rail has proven to have several advantages, such as: Increased market coverage.

Alternative pipeline in growth markets with lower capital requirements.

Flexibility to deliver to key markets,

Within the transportation sector, it is expected that the amount of freight moving on the Mexican railroad system and crossing the Mexico-U.S. border will increase in the short term since additional materials will be needed as well as an effective transportation and distribution system.

Given the shortage of Mexican refineries and pipeline, I’m certain that the railroad will become a rolling pipeline, positioning

itself as one of the best means of transportation for oil, gas and petroleum derivatives due to its safety and efficiency.

At Kansas City Southern, our priority is to contribute our business vision and experience in freight transportation. We visualize the North American railroad structure as one single system to offer efficient and safe service on both sides of Mexico-U.S. border.

Integrating the energy markets across the region will also increase industry efficiency and production capacity, strengthening the energy independence, security, competitiveness and economic stability of North America.

flows, better and lower-cost goods and services, as well as more tax revenues but in order to realize this aspiration, the proper infrastructure must be in place to connect the region’s economies with the opportunities available to them.

Mexico’s energy reform reinforces the region’s position as one of the top oil and gas producers and will propel the continent to become the world’s energy powerhouse. This will mean greater employment and regional investment

Mexico will have to improve and modernize its logistics and transportation infrastructure to move oil and gas from the production centers to their final destinations. Pipelines, railroads, and vessels will be needed to ship hydrocarbons.

direct to refinery, or to move where the production occurs.

Fast delivery time per train.

Fast construction—rails are already in place.

Lower permitting hurdles.

Crude quality management.

Lower losses during transportation.

Shorter investment horizon.

Kansas City Southern is strategically positioned in the heart of North America.

Its railway network crosses 6,000 miles across the United States and Mexico, with over 125 years of experience in the United States and 19 years in Mexico.

KCS’s North American rail holdings and strategic alliances are primary components of a NAFTA railway system, linking the commercial and industrial centers of the United States, Mexico and Canada.

The reform may increase rail shipments in the following ways: Increase of LP gas and refined products.

Transportation of steel pipe for gas pipelines under construction.

Frac-sand imported from the United States.

Transportation of crude oil from new producing regions to refineries.

Transportation of Mexico’s oil shale basins.

Imports of refined products (gasoline, diesel and biofuel).

In Mexico, our international intermodal corridor begins in Lazaro, Cardenas and runs throughout 15 states in the central and northeastern sections of the country, connecting the main industrial areas with the rest of North America.

We are the only trans-national railroad that connects with all Class 1 railroads in the United States and Mexico.

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INTERVIEW WITH

JUAN PABLO VEGA ARRIAGA

THE INTERVIEW / ENTREVISTA

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J

uan Pablo Vega Arriaga is vice president of Shipbuilding in the Mexican Chamber of Maritime Transport Industry. He founded Naviera Integral in 1987. The 100 percent Mexican company is focused on maritime transport vessels flying the Mexican flag. Integral Group is comprised of nine companies, all related to the maritime transport industry and ports.

He earned a bachelor’s in Business Administration from the Universidad del Valle de Mexico, has been president of the Mexican Association of Shipowners Maritime, president of the Mexican Chamber of Maritime Transport Industry (CAMEINTRAM) from 2013 to 2016 , president of the Mexican Council of Transport (CMET) from 2012 to 2014, founding member of the Mexican Council of Energy (COMENER), and vice president of Ecosystem Mobility and Logistics CONCAMIN (La Confederación de Cámaras Industriales) 2015-2016. He is also an honorary member of the board of CONCAMIN and Business Council of the Universidad de las Américas Puebla.

He was awarded as an officer of the Order of Orange-Nassau by the government of the Netherlands for his constant and effective work in trade relations between Mexico and the Netherlands in the public, private and cultural environment, and promotion of the Dutch maritime technology, experience and knowledge in the sector.

THE MARITIME INDUSTRY AND ITS ROLE IN THE MEXICO ENERGY REFORM In an interview with the U.S.-Mexico Chamber of Commerce; Juan Pablo Vega shared his views on the role of the maritime industry in Mexico within the context of the current Energy Reform. He pointed out critical success factors for those participating or intending to participate in the sector today.

ALLIANCE: What is the Mexican Chamber of Maritime Transport Industry?

Vega Arriaga: The Mexican Chamber of Maritime Transport Industry is an organization that brings together Mexican shipping companies, platform companies owners, operators, providers of port and related services.

CAMEINTRAM is a business organization with over 25 years of history, which represents the interests of the business sector looking for the development of

maritime transport, an organization that I had the high honor of presiding over from 2013 to 2016.

During my tenure, we sought the development and consolidation of strategic issues for the Mexican shipping industry as well as positioning and linking the sector with the relevant authorities and the business elite as CONCAMIN, CMET and COMENER.

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A: What represents the shipping industry in Mexico?

V: The Mexican Maritime Sector represents: The fifth most important worldwide at tention to offshore platforms fleet; 300,000 direct and indirect highly-skilled and well-paid jobs, a figure now reduced by the impact of vessels without operation; Investments above 6,000 millions during the period 2011-2014; and About one percent of gross domestic product (GDP).

Likewise, the Mexican fleet is modern and safe, meets all international regulations issued by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for environmental protection.

In addition, 78 percent of the oil activity occurs in the sea, so shipping is a significate element in the logistics chain of oil and a national security issue.

A: What effect has the falling prices of a barrel of oil worldwide had on the sector?

V: Declining oil prices have had an impact on the entire sector and have stopped activities on a number of oil rigs—a situation that leads us to have a very significant percentage of vessels without contracts and without operation.

This situation is very worrisome but we believe it will be temporary and will hopefully improve in the budget of 2017 as PEMEX works to be a more productive enterprise and hopefully the price of Mexican oil will increase in the near future.

A: What will be the impact of the energy reform on the National Merchant Marine?

V: The impact of the energy reform will be positive for the maritime and port sectors as there will be a range of new business services to offer.

Mexican companies are ready to offer big oil services worldwide. In Mexico, we have a modern big fleet and that will be enough to meet the needs of this market.

The reform will allow us to have an equal footing with foreign companies and be able to generate further growth in our industry as more private companies, i.e. other than PEMEX, require the services of the shipping industry.

Therefore, I reiterate that the reform is positive and the Mexican industry is a strong choice for companies that require our ships for operations related to the oil industry. In addition to the quality and safety offered by Mexican companies, their participation helps meet needs of integration of local content.

A: What are the challenges that exist in the ports to keep us competitive in a global economy and what measures are being taken for modernization, safety, and operational capacity in the port systems?

V: Ports are the cornerstone for the operation of maritime-port industry and ship traffic for import and export. In Mexico, the ports are the logistics centers where different modes of transportation and services are integrated.

Definitely, modernization is an ongoing challenge. It is important to have solid infrastructure in place to service the vessels currently operating in the world—a goal Mexican ports have worked toward as exist at the Port of Veracruz. Likewise, a challenge is to adapt to the demands of users, activities and services, and today the given situation in the oil sector, a tariff reduction is important with respect to port dues.

ADVERTORIAL / PUBLIRREPORTAJE

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BMW OF West Houston Exceeding Customer Expectations

Visit Houston’s Newest BMW Dealership—BMW of West Houston

BMW of West Houston, conveniently located in the Energy Corridor, is one of just three stateof-the-art BMW dealerships in the U.S., first in the state of Texas and only in the City of Houston.

BMW of West Houston is the proud recipient of the prestigious 2016 Center of Excellence Award and represents BMW’s future retail strategy—a rethinking of the car-buying experience that replaces the traditional sales person and buyer interactions.

Customers are welcomed by sales advisors when they enter the 95,000 square foot, energy-efficient facility. This tech-savvy center allows customers to sit down with large screens and iPads® to design and individualize their own cars with paint colors and interior finish samples a mere arm’s length away on the custom display wall. The sales advisors are nearby to help throughout the process as well as three BMW Geniuses.

These product experts are onsite to assist you in finding the perfect vehicle to suit your lifestyle and needs.

ADVERTORIAL / PUBLIRREPORTAJE

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The BMW Genius is specially trained to demonstrate and help you become familiar with all aspects of your BMW— before, during, and after your purchase.

allow customers to watch their car being serviced, to the open and non-intrusive floor plan for customers to browse the showroom floor as they wish.

BMW Financial Services has designed a financing program for foreign nationals and professionals coming from abroad who do not have credit in the U.S. Through this program, any foreign professional can obtain a preferred interest rate even without having credit.

Additionally, the all new driveup service center with its high-speed doors allows customers to interact with their service advisor in a comfortable and efficient fashion.

Maria has expressed pride in her team that has embraced and adapted to the new shift in culture, “When people care about their cars as much we do, we want to ensure they know we are committed providing exceptional service in every facet of our business.”

Leading the diverse team at BMW of West Houston is general manager and dealer operator, Maria Moncada-Alaoui.

With over 20 years of experience in the automotive industry and a forward-thinking approach to business, Maria’s influence on customer service in a new environment is apparent: “In honor of our customer’s passion, we have reimagined the BMW experience,” from large glass windows in the lounge area that

Maria and her team are eager to share their excitement for the new BMW models and to introduce BMW to the next generation of drivers. Meeting your new BMW for the first time should be a great experience. Visit the store and let Maria and her team welcome you to the BMW family.

The Binational Business Magazine

MEMBER HIGHLIGHTS / MIEMBRO DESTACADO

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GRUPO SALINAS:

IMPROVEMENT OF SOCIETY THROUGH EXCELLENCE

Grupo Salinas is a body of dynamic, rapidly-growing companies at the cutting edge of technology, focused on creating value and improving society through a solid commitment to excellence.

W

ith subsidiaries in Mexico, the United States, Colombia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Peru, and Panama, Grupo Salinas operates in the television broadcasting, telecommunications, consumer finance, transportation and retailing industries through TV Azteca, Azteca America, Totalplay, Banco Azteca, Seguros Azteca, Afore Azteca, Punto Casa de Bolsa, Advance America, Italika and Grupo Elektra.

Grupo Salinas is also a socially-responsible corporate citizen, with projects that include FundaciĂłn Azteca, Fomento Cultural Grupo Salinas, Kybernus, and Caminos de la Libertad, dedicated to improving health, education, preserving the environment, making culture accessible, and promoting leadership and freedom.

Grupo Salinas is especially proud of its Esperanza Azteca youth orchestra program that actively promotes values with underprivileged children. The program operates over 80 orchestras throughout Mexico, in addition to orchestras in El Salvador and Los Angeles.

TV Azteca is one of the world’s two largest producers of Spanish-language television programming. It operates two national television networks through its more than 300 owned stations. TV Azteca also owns Azteca America, a Spanish-language television network in the United States, and has operations in Guatemala, Honduras, Colombia and Peru.

MEMBER HIGHLIGHTS / MIEMBRO DESTACADO

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Totalplay is Mexico’s most innovative triple play service, using direct to home fiber optics. It has the most advanced broadband internet platform in Latin America, the largest supply of HD (high definition) channels and outstanding telephony services.

Grupo Elektra is Latin America’s leading financial services and specialty retailer, focused on the base of the pyramid. The company operates more than 7,000 points of sale in Mexico, the United States, Guatemala, Honduras, Peru, Panama and El Salvador.

Retail operations include electronics, appliances and furniture. In the area of transportation, Elektra’s Italika brand is the top-selling line of motorcycles in Mexico with a market share exceeding 70 percent.

Italika currently operates in Mexico, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, Peru, Panama, and Brazil.

Grupo Elektra includes Banco Azteca, one of the largest banks in Mexico, focused on financial inclusion. In addition to consumer loans, Banco Azteca offers group loans through Micronegocio Azteca, asset-backed loans through Presta Prenda, credit cards, and has over 13 million savings accounts.

Advance America is the leader in short-term, nonbank loans in the United States, with about 2,400 points of sale in 29 states. The company offers credit options to consumers whose needs are not met by traditional financial institutions.

Other financial services include Seguros Azteca, which offers life and accident insurance; Afore Azteca pension-fund management services; and the Punto Casa de Bolsa brokerage firm.

By taking well-being to all levels of society, Grupo Salinas fosters the development of the countries where it operates.

The Binational Business Magazine

UPCOMING EVENTS / PRÓXIMOS EVENTOS

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SEPTEMBER Chapter

Event

Date

Sustainability and Innovation Course

2 to Oct 29

UNIVA University

splopez88@gmail.com

Logsitics and Supply Chain Leaders Conference

7&8

Four Seasons Hotel

rmartinez@usmcocfl.org

Fiestas Patrias Gala

10

The Woodlands Resort

petegarcia@usmcocgc.org

Third North American Sustainable Economic Development Summit

11 & 12

Conversation about Mexico’s Strengths and Challenges with Kenneth Smith and Consul General of the United States of America in Tijuana William Ostick.

14

1800 Century Park East Suite 300, Los Angeles, CA, 90067

marlen@usmcocca.org

Inter American Chapter. Miami, Fl.

Independence Celebration

15

Miami Dade College

rmartinez@usmcocfl.org

Northeast Chapter. New York, Ny.

El Grito: Mexico’s Independence Day Celebration

15

Diamond Horseshoe

marianna@usmcocne.org

Inter American Chapter. Miami, Fl.

Integrate y Empoderate!

21

Bilzin Sumberg Baena Price & Axelrod LLP

rmartinez@usmcocfl.org

ABC to do business with the United States

21

COFOCE

splopez88@gmail.com

International Networking

27

CANACO

pacifico@usmcoc.org

Southwest Chapter. Dallas, Tx.

San Luis Potosi, MX Trade Mission

28 to Oct 1

San Luis Potosí

josie.orosco18@gmail.com

Nortwest Chapter. Seattle, Wa.

Board Members breakfast

29

Columbia Tower Club

info@usmcocnw.org

Event

Date

Place

For Further Information

Fifth Annual Trade Mission to South Korea and China ”First Section”

4 to 11

marlen@usmcocca.org

Fifth Annual Trade Mission to South Korea and China “Second Section”

11 to 18

(Vietnam: Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City) / (China: Guangzhou) TBD

Legal Immigration Forum

13 to 14

Dallas, Texas

josie.orosco18@gmail.com

Global Face North

20

TBD

rmartinez@usmcocfl.org

Pacifico Chapter. Guadalajara, Jal.

International Networking

25

CANACO

pacifico@usmcoc.org

Nortwest Chapter. Seattle, Wa.

Board Members breakfast

27

Columbia Tower Club

info@usmcocnw.org

California Pacific Chapter. Los Angeles, Ca.

US-Mexico Real Estate Investment Summit 2016

27

1800 Century Park East Suite 300, Los Angeles, CA, 90067

marlen@usmcocca.org

Double Eagle Award Dinner

TBD

(T) Hilton Chicago

Teresa.Reyes@usmcoc.org

Event

Date

Place

For Further Information

Inter American Chapter. Miami, Fl.

Networking Reception

2

Duane Morris LLP

Southwest Chapter. Dallas, Tx.

Veracruz Trade Mission

3

Dallas/Veracruz

California Pacific Chapter. Los Angeles, Ca.

The BRICS, New Updates and Development.

10

1800 Century Park East Suite 300, Los Angeles, CA, 90067

Binational Office

México Cumbre de Negocios / Mexico Business Summit

13 -15

Centro Expositor Puebla Puebla, Mexico

Binational Office

USMCOC Binational Conference

15 & 16

(Venue TBD) Mexico City

Registering Trademarks: Why is that Important for Doing Business in Mexico?

17

TBD

Board Members breakfast

24

Columbia Tower Club

info@usmcocnw.org

International Networking

29

CANACO

pacifico@usmcoc.org

Event

Date

Place

For Further Information

Baja California Real Estate, Wineries and Gastronomy 2016

2

1800 Century Park East Suite 300, Los Angeles, CA, 90067

marlen@usmcocca.org

The Posada, A True Mexican Tradition

8

1800 Century Park East Suite 300, Los Angeles, CA, 90067

rmartinez@usmcocfl.org

8&9

The Woodlands Resort & Conference

27

CANACO

Guanajuato Chapter. Leon, Gto. Inter American Chapter. Miami, Fl. Houston The Woodlands Gulf Coast Chapter Binational Office

California Pacific Chapter. Los Angeles, Ca.

Guanajuato Chapter. Leon, Gto. Pacifico Chapter. Guadalajara, Jal.

Place

Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas Irving, Texas

For Further Information

gabriela.kenny@usmcoc.org

OCTOBER Chapter California Pacific Chapter. Los Angeles, Ca. California Pacific Chapter. Los Angeles, Ca. Southwest Chapter. Dallas, Tx. Inter American Chapter. Miami, Fl.

Mid-America Chapter. Chicago, Il

marlen@usmcocca.org

NOVEMBER Chapter

Inter American Chapter. Miami, Fl.

Nortwest Chapter. Seattle, Wa. Pacifico Chapter. Guadalajara, Jal.

rmartinez@usmcocfl.org josie.orosco18@gmail.com marlen@usmcocca.org gabriela.kenny@usmcoc.org gabriela.kenny@usmcoc.org rmartinez@usmcocfl.org

DECEMBER Chapter California Pacific Chapter. Los Angeles, Ca. Inter American Chapter. Miami, Fl. Binational Office Pacifico Chapter. Guadalajara, Jal.

U.S.-Mexico Energy Symposium International Networking

gabriela.kenny@usmcoc.org pacifico@usmcoc.org

NEW MEMBERS / MEMBER DISCOUNTS

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New members of the United States-Mexico Chamber of Commerce BINATIONAL MEMBERS Hogan Lovells Sector: Law Firm www.hoganlovells.com

INTER-AMERICAN CHAPTER MIAMI, FL

CALIFORNIA REGIONAL CHAPTER LOS ANGELES, CA

NORTHWEST CHAPTER CHAPTER SEATTLE, WA

Boston Scientific Sector: Medical Equipment www.bostonscientfic.com

Connect Mexico LLC Sector: International Business Consulting www.connectmexico.net

Jan Morris Sector: Spirits Manufacturers www.hardwaredistillery.com

City Express Hotels Sector: Hospitality www.cityexpress.com

Moises Castillo Sector: Education www.unam.com

El Clasificado: Sector: Media -Newspaper www.group50.com

Sharon Sappington Sector: Government www.wsbdc.org

Group 50 Sector: Import-Export www.group50.com

Stephen Walroth-Sadurni Sector: Assembly / Manufacturing www.walsadlaw.com

Westin Hotels & Resorts Sector: Hospitality www.westin.com/guadalajara

STS Manufacturing Sector: Law Firm www.stsmanufacturing.com

NORTHEAST CHAPTER NEW YORK, NY

SOUTHWEST CHAPTER DALLAS, TX

CISA (New York) LLC Sector: Financial Services www.cisatrust.com

Brewer and Lormand- Ruth Brewer Sector: Family & Corporate Law www.brewerlormand.com

Dan Killian

USP LAB - Jacob Geissler Sector: Supplements www.usplabsdirect.com

Llorente & Cuenca Sector: Communications Firm www.llorenteycuenca.com Maritza Sanchez

P L Hudson- Jack Kelly Sector: Credit Insurance www.coface-southcentral.com

WeWork Sector: Real State www.wework.com

Morrison & Foerster LLP Sector: Law Firm www.mofo.com Regina Madrid Strategic Investment Group Sector: Financial Services www.sig-global.co.uk

HOUSTON THE WOODLANDS GULF COST CHAPTER HOUSTON, TX

The Baja Music Arts Initiative (Non-Profit Organization) Sector: Arts www.bajamusical.org

CHI St. Luke’s Health Sector: Medical Clinics www.stlukeshealth.org

Transtelco Sector: Communications www.transtelco.net Wells Fargo Sector: Financial Services www.wellsfargo.com

British American School Sector: Education www.bishouston.org

MID-AMERICA CHAPTER CHICAGO, IL

GUANAJUATO CHAPTER LEON, GTO.

Anthony Beyer Sector: Shelter & Business Process Outsourcing www.dimsa.com

Makermex S.A. de C.V. Sector: 3D Printing www.makermex.com

Robert Gallant Sector: Manufacturing www.tekpak.com

Manufacturas Diversas S.A. de C.V. Sector: DC Auto parts Division www.dc.com.mx

Goya Foods Sector: Food Industry www.goya.com

VALLE DE MEXICO MEXICO City Grupo Industrial Gsx. S. A. de C. V. Sector: Industrial www.gsx.mx Quanta Share Sector: Financiero www.quantashares.com

Consult your regional chapter to obtain discounts.

VALLE DE MÉXICO CHAPTER Mexico City - Ostar Hotel Group: Generve Hotel in Mexico City -St. Regis Mexico City -Marquis Reforma Hotel -Hoteles Misión All its 43 locations in Mexico -Four Seasons Hotel Mexico -Sheraton Maria Isabel Hotel & Towers -Hotel Imperial

Houston - Woodlands Gulf Coast Chapter The Woodlands, TX - The Woodlands Resorts & Conference Center

GUANAJUATO CHAPTER León, Gto. - Mexico Plaza Hotels Locations: Leon, Guanajuato, Irapuato, Salamanca, Celaya and Guadalajara, Coming soon: Aguascalientes, Silao y San Miguel de Allende - Hotel La Nueva Estancia

MID-AMERICA CHAPTER Chicago, IL

CALIFORNIA REGIONAL CHAPTER Los Angeles, CA

- Aeromexico - United Airlines

- Aeromexico - Alaska Airlines - Benckmarkemail en Español - Agencia Aduanal adolfo Ayala Bejarano - Correduria Publica No. 23 - Cima Design - Lewis and Lewis Insurange Agency, Inc. - Todd Becraft Attorney at Law Insurange Agency, Inc. - Todd Becraft Attorney at Law - Trio America

INTER-AMERICAN CHAPTER Miami, FL - Interjet - Aeromexico - Sports Club

PACÍFICO CHAPTER Guadalajara, Jal - ABC Global Group