TPP: What do you need to know and what will it mean for your business?

TPP:  What do you need to know and what will it mean for your business?

Many of you are familiar with the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), which will create unprecedented opportunities for U.S. businesses in the coming years. You may have even read through certain sections of the agreement text that was published late last year. But have you spoken with key U.S. Government officials about the specifics? If not...now's your chance! 

On February 24, 2016, the U.S. Department of Commerce's Antwaun Griffin will provide key insights into TPP and what it means for Virginia exporters. Some questions you should expect to have answered from this highly-informative session include the following: 

• What does TPP mean for leading Virginia industries including agriculture, chemicals, forest products, information technology, and services?
  
• How can TPP impact your business if the tariff rates for U.S. goods in many markets are already at zero?  What are some of the key non-tariff barriers that will be lowered?
  
• What can you do to better prepare your business now so that you’re ready to act once TPP has been implemented?
  
• Where can you find more information about TPP, including how your specific products will be impacted?
  

About the speaker:

Antwaun Griffin serves as Deputy Assistant Secretary for U.S. Operations with the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration. In this role, Antwaun oversees the day-to-day operations of the U.S. Commercial Service’s network of 108 U.S. Export Assistance Centers whose trade specialists support local companies in achieving their export goals. Antwaun has a strong understanding of the interagency, legislative and intergovernmental processes; and routinely counsels businesses, state and local officials and economic development organizations on federal economic development programs. Antwaun is a native of Richmond, Virginia and graduated from the University of Virginia where he was an Echols Scholar.

The Virginia International Business Council, Inc. (VAIBC™) was established in 1948, and it has had a distinguished history as a membership organization serving businesses engaged in or pursuing international trade and the wide range of professionals in the public and private sector that facilitate and enable international trade.  Our monthly luncheon programs provide networking and educational opportunities vital to international business success.  

VAIBC periodically conducts special workshops on topics vital to our members and several annual special events including our December holiday party and spring golf outing. We actively support other Virginia trade organizations and events, and provide scholarships and other outreach to Virginia colleges and universities. For more information, please contact us:  sec@vaibc.org