Relationships Matter – World Trade Centers® Association Global Business Forum 2025 | | |
Dear Colleagues,
What a week to be at the World Trade Centers® Association Global Business Forum 2025 in Marseille, France. Representatives from WTCs in over 50 countries attended from April 6 to 9. World Trade Center Marseille Provence hosted important events, including 30 mainstage speakers from the World Trade Organization, the World Free Zones Organization; German Marshall Fund of the United States; over 20 workshops; more than 500 Business to Business meetings; trips to the Port of Marseille and cutting-edge technology companies; and exhibition space featuring a variety of WTCs and companies in many sectors. The Connections Showcase featured the announcement of new memoranda of understanding between individual WTCs. As is fitting in France, the exhibition included an art gallery.
World Trade Center Delaware’s exhibit booth attracted numerous visitors from four continents. Governor Matt Meyer presented a video greeting and Delaware Foreign Trade Zone #99 Grantee Administrator Patty Cannon provided an easy-to-understand video extolling the benefits of locating in Delaware’s FTZ#99. The Delaware Tourism office provided popular giveaways and magazines and the Greater Wilmington Convention & Visitors Bureau's video urged attendees to the 2026 WTCA GBF in Philadelphia to include Delaware in their travel plans. With me was Kim Burdick, a well-known Delaware historian, author, tourism expert and the perfect ambassador. She has been honored by the French government with Les Palmes Academiques by French Ambassador Pierre Vimont for her work on General Rochambeau. Kim has family and went to school in the region and still has close ties to Marseille. I participated in over 40 B2B meetings with companies interested in referrals to businesses in logistics, poultry, bioscience and manufacturing.
As expected, this year’s meeting was dominated by discussions of the U.S. government’s new tariff policies and reactions from other countries, particularly our neighbors Canada and Mexico, China and European Union nations. Against this backdrop, B2B meetings and partnerships with other World Trade Centers assumed added importance. Success in international trade is built on relationships. Trade is not just a transaction. The ability to overcome distance, language and political barriers is based on mutual trust and understanding. This takes time. The WTCA provides a worldwide venue for companies to meet and develop relationships with suppliers, buyers, shippers, agents and stakeholders in the supply chain. While each meeting does not automatically lead to a purchase, it does lay the foundation for more discussion and exploration of alternative resources.
During the meeting, we jointly announced MOUs with World Trade Center Pune (India) and World Trade Center Georgetown (Guyana). WTC Pune, one of the largest and oldest WTCs in India, is in a center of manufacturing, IT and pharmaceuticals, and is known as the Oxford of India because of the number and quality of its universities. WTC Georgetown is one of the association’s newest WTCs with its building set to open this fall. Guyana is on the north coast of South American and borders Surinam, Brazil, Venezuela and the Atlantic Ocean. After the discovery of oil in 2015, the country is said to be the fastest-growing economy in the world. The MOUs will create closer ties with regions that have potential for two-way trade and investment with Delaware companies as well as opportunities for educational exchanges.
| | WTC Delaware Premier Members | |
Learn more about Delaware Business Times
| | |
Braven
Braven is a nonprofit career-building organization that provides promising young people with the tools, networks and confidence to land strong first jobs after college graduation. In Delaware, Braven partners with Delaware State University, supporting about 600 students annually with a semester-long course followed by continued guidance through graduation. The organization connected with World Trade Center Delaware after learning about its impactful work from President Carla Stone. Through membership in WTC Delaware, Braven aims to build meaningful partnerships that bolster the local workforce and contribute to the state’s economic growth.
Learn more: braven.org
| | |
Herbert Studios
Herbert Studios, led by Jeff Herbert, is a Wilmington photography studio specializing in architectural, drone and advertising photography. Herbert connected with World Trade Center Delaware by attending events and photographing attendees, which led to valuable networking opportunities. Through membership, Herbert Studios aims to expand its business by gaining leads and referrals, using WTC Delaware's extensive network to grow and establish connections in the global trade community.
Learn more: herbertstudios.com
| | |
XALO® Global Enterprises Inc
Xalo Global Enterprises Inc. is a bicultural company committed to connecting cultures and economies between the United States and other countries through tourism, trade, cultural exchange and government collaboration. The company was introduced to World Trade Center Delaware through Dr. David Amakobe, a mentor and president of African Wood Inc. Xalo works globally to promote destinations and ease international trade, importing authentic products to the United States, exporting American goods and helping new Americans acclimate with employment, education and community connections. By joining WTC Delaware, Xalo aims to use its vast network and resources to enlarge its international impact, host global events, and access strategic consulting, facilities and trade insights. With plans to establish a physical presence in Delaware, Xalo views WTC Delaware membership as a key step in expanding its footprint and fostering lasting partnerships that drive prosperity and cultural exchange worldwide.
Learn more: xaloenterprises.com
| | |
Arkion Life Sciences
Arkion Life Sciences, originally launched as a startup from DuPont and ConAgra, is dedicated to creating sustainable, eco-friendly innovations. The company specializes in crop protection, organic pest management for farms and orchards, and the control of ticks and mosquitoes. Through its involvement with World Trade Center Delaware, Arkion has received vital support to expand its international footprint. This collaboration has opened doors to consultants and business contacts, resulting in exports to markets such as South Africa and West African nations including Ghana and Nigeria.
Learn more: arkionls.com
| | |
BATTA Environmental
Headquartered in Newark, Delaware, BATTA Environmental Associates is a family-owned firm delivering an array of environmental engineering and consulting services. With international operations in regions such as Brazil, China, Mexico and the Middle East, the company offers 24/7 laboratory support, EHS (Environmental, Health and Safety) training, and specialized products for air purification, contamination control, and oil spill remediation. BATTA’s work combines technical expertise with innovative solutions to tackle complex environmental issues across industries and borders.
Learn more: battaenv.com
| | |
Emory Hill Companies
Emory Hill Companies deliver comprehensive real estate solutions across Delaware and the Mid-Atlantic. As the commercial real estate division, NAI Emory Hill consistently ranks at the top in Delaware for transaction volume. Backed by its affiliation with the global NAI network, the firm blends regional insight with worldwide reach. Carmen J. Facciolo, who became a partner in 1983, holds leadership roles as director of NAI Emory Hill, president of Emory Hill Real Estate Services Inc., and vice president of Emory Hill & Company. His contributions are highly regarded by the company’s board of directors. NAI Emory Hill is the exclusive NAI representative for Delaware and Cecil County, Maryland, and collaborates with other NAI offices to meet client needs.
Learn more: naiemoryhill.com
| | |
Lewis Brisbois
Lewis Brisbois is a national, full-service law firm founded in 1979 and headquartered in Los Angeles. With over 1,600 attorneys across 55 offices in 32 states and Washington, D.C., the firm offers legal services in more than 40 specialties and sub-specialties. Lewis Brisbois is recognized for its commitment to principled advocacy, a strong work ethic, and providing the best service to clients. The firm has developed sophisticated risk evaluation and litigation management that many clients have incorporated into their business practices, helping them manage and defend claims and litigation. Lewis Brisbois is also known for its diverse and inclusive culture, reflecting the communities in which its attorneys live.
Learn more: lewisbrisbois.com
| | |
Port Wilmington, an Enstructure Company
Located on the Delaware River, the Port of Wilmington is a full-service deepwater port operated by Enstructure, a privately owned logistics company with a broad network of marine and rail terminals, warehouses, and transportation services across the eastern United States. Serving industries such as agriculture, energy and construction, Enstructure focuses on efficiency, strong partnerships and community involvement. The company connected with World Trade Center Delaware through a long-standing relationship with regional WTCs, known for fostering global trade and collaboration. Since joining Enstructure Mid-Atlantic, leadership has made WTC Delaware a priority, benefiting from its support as the port expands and diversifies operations. The organization has helped strengthen relationships and unlock business opportunities, offering members access to a network of global trade resources and connections.
Learn more: portwilmington.com
| | |
Reminder for Members:
Showcase Your Business at Upcoming Trade Events!
| | |
A reminder to all members of WTC Delaware: we can take your marketing materials to upcoming trade events we are attending. This is a great opportunity to showcase your business to a broader audience.
Be sure to send any materials you would like us to distribute!
Check below for a list of upcoming events where we’ll be representing WTC Delaware and promoting your business, or visit our calendar!
| |
World Trade Center Delaware Celebrates
38 Years of Global Impact!
| | |
World Trade Center Delaware celebrated its 38th anniversary at the historic University & Whist Club of Wilmington on Wednesday, April 23rd. The event marked the joint resolution of the Delaware General Assembly in 1987 to recognize April 27, the date of its founding, as World Trade Center Delaware Day and to recognize WTC Delaware as a key driver of global economic development for the state.
Our birthday party was an evening of networking, great food and fellowship. The celebration brought together esteemed Board members Bayard Hogans, President of Port Wilmington/Enstructure Mid-Atlantic; Ken Grant, Senior Director at Convergence Public Affairs; Ayanna Khan, President of the Delaware Black Chamber of Commerce; and JC Fernandez-Seoane, Director of Foreign Exchange at WSFS Bank and guests including members, new and old, and representatives of the State of Delaware, and other businesses throughout the region.
Carla Stone, the President of World Trade Center Delaware, delivered an inspiring speech that reinforced the organization's purpose of providing businesses with opportunities to expand their businesses through international trade and the essential tools to assist them in navigating the complex international trade landscape. She highlighted initiatives such as strategic partnerships, training, matchmaking, and promotional programs—especially critical amid new tariffs, shifting sanctions and evolving global trade regulations.
This year's celebration included a charitable component. For our birthday, we invited our guests to make a donation to the Food Bank of Delaware on our behalf, and we deeply appreciate their generosity. We encourage our members to continue their support for this meaningful effort with additional contributions of nonperishable food items or money.
Here’s to 38 years of connecting Delaware to the world, and many more years of partnerships!
| | |
WTC Delaware Kickoff to the
US-Africa Business Summit May 8
| | |
WTC Delaware presents Kickoff to the US-Africa Business Summit. Organized by the Corporate Council on Africa, this year’s summit will take place in Luanda, Angola, from June 23 to 27. Again this year, World Trade Center Delaware will be an exhibitor. The summit is an important forum for U.S. and African corporate, government and NGO leaders. WTC Delaware’s long record with the council and summit gives our companies a head start to explore or solidify market opportunities. Companies that attend with us succeed in a region where relationships are especially important.
Angola is one of sub-Saharan Africa’s largest economies and the United States’ third-largest trading partner in the region. It is a thriving emerging market and home to many multinational U.S. organizations. It has strengthened ties with the United States through a trade and investment framework agreement aimed at fostering greater trade and investment. Angola’s economy is overwhelmingly driven by its oil sector. Oil production and its supporting activities contribute about 50 percent of GDP, more than 70 percent of government revenue, and more than 90 percent of the country’s exports. Production has surpassed that of Nigeria, making it the largest oil producer in sub-Saharan Africa. Food products, machinery and chemical products were the main categories of U.S. exports to Angola in 2022. Angola is a large market for U.S. goods and services, leading with agricultural products and technology, oil and energy, healthcare, aviation and rail, and marine (fisheries and sea ports).* trade.gov/country-commercial-guides/angola-market-overview
This year's summit will bring together more than 1,500 delegates, including African presidents, heads of government and ministers, senior U.S. government officials and leaders from U.S. and African companies. The 2025 summit sessions will cover an array of opportunities to expand U.S.-Africa trade, investment and business relations.
Information about exhibiting or traveling with us: 302-656-7905 or email cstone@wtcde.org.
| | 3-State Healthcare Tech Tour May 8-9 | | |
We're excited to share an upcoming event taking place May 8–9, 2025, focused on healthcare technology in the Greater Philadelphia region (USA). Choose New Jersey, the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, and Delaware Prosperity Partnership have joined together to host a two-day tour of the tri-state area's life sciences assets (Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania).
From photonics to cell therapy and precision oncology to medical devices, learn about the U.S. region attracting billions in public and private investment to develop, manufacture, and deploy global-leading technology to improve healthcare for all. The two-day tour will include visits with global-leading companies, state-of-the-art labs, top-tier universities, and incubator spaces.
We hope you'll join us in May for this special event. It is being organized in coordination with SelectUSA and will take place just before the SelectUSA Investment Summit (May 11–14). Participation in the tour does not require attendance at the Summit.
Please see the invitation below and click to register.
| | U.S. Patent for Avian Flu Prevention and Treatment Awarded to Dr. Steven Baranowitz, Philadelphia Scientist and President of Epitek | | |
Epitek Inc., a proud member of World Trade Center Delaware and World Trade Center Greater Philadelphia, is pleased to announce that its President, Dr. Steven A. Baranowitz, has been awarded a U.S. government patent for novel methods in the prevention and treatment of avian influenza and other viral diseases. The patent, granted on February 18, 2025, introduces an innovative approach to combating bird flu, an urgent global threat with devastating consequences for poultry, livestock, and potentially humans.
Dr. Baranowitz’s seminal discovery identifies existing medications, already approved for other diseases, as effective against avian influenza. His research also provides new directions for developing targeted treatments to prevent and mitigate future outbreaks. This latest patent adds to his extensive portfolio of intellectual property, which includes numerous patents for broad-spectrum antiviral treatments.
With the economic impact of avian influenza continuing to escalate worldwide, Epitek Inc. is seeking collaboration with governments, pharmaceutical companies, farmers' associations, and industry leaders to accelerate the application of these vital discoveries.
About Dr. Steven A. Baranowitz, MD, MS2 , MBA
Dr. Steven A. Baranowitz is a distinguished pharmaceutical and biotech scientist, physician, and entrepreneur with an extensive background in discovery, drug safety, clinical trials, and infectious disease research. He has held key leadership positions, including Medical Director roles at major pharmaceutical and biotech companies, and has provided expert consultation on vaccine safety for a major manufacturer.
A prolific innovator, Dr. Baranowitz holds over fifteen U.S. and international patents across multiple fields, including virology, oncology, ophthalmology, and regenerative medicine. His academic credentials include: MD – New York University School of Medicine, MS in Anatomy – University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MS in Computer Information Systems-Boston University, MBA – Fairleigh Dickinson University, and BS – Brooklyn College of City University of New York.
Dr. Baranowitz has also been recognized internationally, having been honored as a visiting scientist at the University of Oxford’s Center for Mathematical Biology and delivering a guest seminar at the National Institute for Medical Research in London.
About Epitek Inc.
Epitek Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on advancing innovative solutions for infectious diseases and other societal challenges. The company develops cutting-edge treatments that improve global health outcomes through scientific innovation and strategic partnerships.
For media inquiries or partnership opportunities, please contact: Graziella DiNuzzo gdinuzzo@matchingmissions.com 609-680-7670
| | Flying Soon? Don’t Miss the REAL ID Deadline: May 7! | | Upcoming CBP Trade Education Webinars – May 2025 Registration Now Open | | |
U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Office of Trade’s National Commodity Specialist Division (NCSD) is hosting the following webinars in the month of May as a part of the 2025 NCSD webinar series. These webinars are scheduled for 1:30 p.m. ET.
To register for these free webinars, click on the registration link for the coordinating webinar below. All registrants will receive the link for the webinar on their confirmation email, but entry into the webinar is on a first-come, first-served basis as seats are limited. After the live event, this and other previously recorded webinars will be available for replay at Trade Outreach Webinars | U.S. Customs and Border Protection (cbp.gov).
The following webinars are a part of CBP’s continuing education program.
NCSD’s May Webinar Schedule:
Wednesday, May 14, 2025: Armed and Ready: The Arms and Ammunition of Chapter 93 – The “Armed and Ready: The Arms and Ammunition of Chapter 93” is part of the 2025 Educations Commodity Specific Webinar Series hosted by the National Commodity Specialist Division, Regulations and Rulings, Office of Trade. This webinar will provide an overview of Chapter 93 including classification, restricted merchandise, and partner government agency issues.
Wednesday, May 21, 2025: Classification of Antiques of Heading 9706 –
The “Classification of Antiques of Heading 9706” is part of the 2025 Educations Commodity Specific Webinar Series hosted by the National Commodity Specialist Division, Regulations and Rulings, Office of Trade. The webinar will discuss the classification of antique pieces of Chapter 97, Heading 9706 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Thursday, May 22, 2025: Decorative Articles of Ceramics of Heading 6913 –The “Decorative Articles of Ceramics of Heading 6913” is part of the 2025 Educations Commodity Specific Webinar Series hosted by the National Commodity Specialist Division, Regulations and Rulings, Office of Trade. This webinar will be on the classification of decorative articles in heading 6913.
Wednesday, May 28, 2025: Overview of 9404: Pillows, Mattresses, Quilted Bedding, Etc. – The “Overview of 9404: Pillows, Mattresses, Quilted Bedding, Etc.” is part of the 2025 Educations Commodity Specific Webinar Series hosted by the National Commodity Specialist Division, Regulations and Rulings, Office of Trade. This webinar will explore heading 9404, discussing what goes where within the heading and what one might think should be classified in 9404, but isn’t. We will touch upon mattress supports (what they are and why they aren’t “furniture”), mattress classification (spring, foam, and hybrid), uncovered innerspring units, mattress covers, eiderdowns, pouffes, throw pillows vs. plush toys, comforters, quilts, what “Pillowtex” means to classification and, in the interest of “Balancing Fair Trade” and acknowledging that what you don’t know can hurt you, we’ll look at antidumping and countervailing duties on mattresses.
If you have any questions about this webinar, please contact OTRwebinars@cbp.dhs.gov.
| | Stay Informed in Real Time on Tariffs | | |
Are you looking for real-time updates on tariff-related news and rollouts? You can receive messages directly from U.S. Customes and Border Protection as soon as executive orders are passed, along with hyperlinks to direct resources. Sign up at Cargo Systems Messaging Service here. Small businesses can also reach out to relevant U.S. government teams for additional information. Relevant inquiry points include:
-
Section 301 and Section 232 tariff implementation: CBP Office of Trade Remedies TradeRemedy@CBP.DHS.gov
- Section 301 Investigations: Office of United States Trade Representative Hotline 202-395-5725
-
International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) tariffs: CBP Office of Trade OTEntrySummary@CBP.DHS.gov
-
General U.S. small business questions: CBP Small Business Relations CBPSBRelations@cbp.dhs.gov
CBP also maintains an archive of trade-related Federal Register Notices that provide the public with additional guidance.
| |
Public Review Open for DFC-Backed
Reko Diq Project in Pakistan
| | |
This is to inform you that the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), the U.S. Government's development finance institution, has a new major project under consideration for DFC insurance, finance, or investment by DFC-supported funds for which an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) or Audit will be required.
DFC discloses non-business-confidential information about the potential impacts of projects under consideration that pose elevated environmental and social risks. This process aims to facilitate the ability of interested and affected parties to communicate concerns with respect to the project and potential impacts. Comments may be submitted to ODP@dfc.gov.
Public comments submitted to DFC as a part of the ESIA process will generally not be treated confidentially. Accordingly, consider the sensitivity of the information to be sent prior to submission (i.e., whether the submission potentially contains Personally Identifiable Information (PII), or is commercially sensitive). Consistent with DFC’s Environmental and Social Policy and Procedures, comments received on projects, including any comments received during public hearings, as well as DFC management’s response to those comments, will be publicly posted on DFC’s web site at least 7 days prior to presenting a project for approval.
Accordingly, further information is available below on the project:
Environmental and Social Impact Assessment for Reko Diq Mining Project, Pakistan
| | DHL suspends high value US deliveries over tariffs | | |
DHL Express has temporarily suspended deliveries of goods valued above $800 to U.S. consumers because of increased customs red tape linked to President Donald Trump's new tariff policies. Tighter customs checks have caused significant delays. While business-to-business shipments will continue, they also may face delays. Shipments below $800 can still be sent with minimal checks, but a planned crackdown on low-value imports, especially from China and Hong Kong, set for May 2 could affect companies such as Shein and Temu, which have warned of upcoming price increases.
Read more: bbc.com/news/articles/c1jx9ep5l63o
| | |
WTC Delaware provides a full range of international trade-related services with an in-depth focus on the export/import of services and manufactured goods. These pages contain brief information on opportunities that could offer exciting possibilities for U.S. companies in various industry sectors.
-
TURKEY: Wind Turbine Component Sourcing Opportunity
-
CHILE: Design, Construction & Maintenance of Desalination Plant
-
FIJI: Denarau Island Water Infrastructure Upgrade
-
KYRGYZ REPUBLIC: Emergency Service Equipment for Water Utility
-
PAKISTAN: Smog Monitoring and Reduction Technologies
-
AZERBAIJAN: Waste Collection Equipment and Smart Waste System
View the most recent trade leads here.
Delaware companies: Please fill out our trade leads form so we can market your products or services!
| | |
May 8, 2025
Kick-Off to the U.S. - Africa Business Summit 2025, University & Whist Club, Wilmington, DE
May 21, 2025
Save the Date. How EXIM Tools Can Help Your Small Business Customers
The Ins and Outs of International Banking Services for Regional and Community Banks, University & Whist Club, Wilmington, DE
| | |
The U.S. Global Leadership Coalition is a bipartisan nonprofit organization that brings together businesses, nonprofits and policymakers to advocate for strong U.S. global involvement through diplomacy and development. It promotes a “smart power” approach that blends defense, development and diplomacy to advance national security and economic growth. USGLC supports generous funding for the International Affairs Budget, highlighting its impact on global stability and American leadership.
| | |
April 29-30, 2025
EXIM 2025 Annual Conference, Washington, D.C.
May 5, 2025
The Annual Dinner - Powering Progress, Wilmington, DE; New Castle County Chamber of Commerce
May 5-8, 2025
3-State Healthcare Tech Tour, Delaware, Pennsylvania & New Jersey
May 12-15, 2025
Automate, Detroit, Michigan; International Trade Administration & U.S. Commercial Service
May 13-14, 2025
U.S.-Caribbean Business Conference 2025, Miami, FL; U.S. Commercial Service
May 20-22, 2025
TEPP at CPHI North Americas 2025, Philadelphia, PA; U.S. Commercial Service
June 9-10, 2025
USGLC | 2025 Global Impact Forum, Washington D.C.; U.S. Global Leadership Coalition
| | |
Expand your business through our referral services, which connect you with potential partners, clients and suppliers. Whether you're expanding your network or seeking specific expertise, we're here to support your success.
| | World Trade Center® Delaware is the state’s premier international business resource. We help companies, especially small, medium-sized and emerging enterprises, to grow their international business. We provide trade leads, training programs, job leads, networking, matchmaking, trade mission and reverse trade mission opportunities for Delaware companies. We serve all types of companies in various sectors including agriculture, environmental remediation, IT, medical equipment manufacturing, biopharmaceuticals, financial, legal and real estate services. For more information visit us at www.wtcde.org. | | Copyright © 2025. All Rights Reserved. | | | | |
