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In This Edition:
- NADEC Chair
- A Tribute
- Trade News
- Outreach and Education News
- Upcoming Events
- NADEC Partners
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Book Your Hotel
Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center
2800 Opryland Drive
Nashville, TN 37214, US
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Register Now
Register now to get the "Early Bird" registration rate at the price of $349.00.
The "Early Bird" registration rate ends on 03/31/2026.
The price will increase to $399 on 4/01/2026.
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2026 Conference Agenda
Please click the button below to view topics, round table discussions, awards,
training sessions and hill visits.
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2026 Sponsorship Opportunities
Market your company to this targeted audience.
Corporate and Local DEC sponsorship opportunities are available.
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Anne Burkett
NADEC Chair, Alabama DEC
Please join the National Association of District Export Councils (NADEC) for the 2026 NADEC Annual Export Conference, May 12–13, 2026, in Nashville.
This year’s theme, Global Trade in Transition, will explore the evolving trade landscape while offering valuable networking with exporters, trade advisors, and government leaders.
Experts from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Office of the United States Trade Representative, U.S. Small Business Administration, and the Federal Reserve Bank will share insights on export initiatives, geopolitical developments, and global economic trends. Sessions will also cover artificial intelligence’s growing impact on international trade, along with regional market roundtables for the Americas, Asia-Pacific (APAC), and Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA).
In partnership with the Tennessee District Export Council and the West Tennessee District Export Council, this year’s conference will feature a special “Taste of Tennessee” program showcasing the state’s industries—from its renowned Tennessee whiskey heritage to emerging high-tech and AI innovation.
The agenda includes expert panels, networking opportunities, and unique Nashville experiences—from an opening reception in the Gulch to a closing rooftop event on the city’s famous Honky Tonk Highway.
Register by March 31 to receive the Early Bird rate, plus an additional $50 discount when booking within the NADEC hotel room block.
We look forward to seeing you in Nashville!
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Bob Erwin
Senior International Business Consultant, University of Georgia SBDC
Tribute to Bob Erwin
It is with deep sadness that the NADEC Board of Directors shares the passing of our fellow board member and friend, Bob Erwin.
Bob was a true champion of the exporting community and a remarkable servant leader. He was the driving force behind the DEC Website Initiative, helping District Export Councils across the country establish and maintain websites that highlight the vital role exports play in our national economy. Through his vision, guidance, and generosity with his time and expertise, more than 28 DEC websites were created. Those who worked with Bob on these efforts will always remember his patience, dedication, and willingness to help.
Bob also played a key role in developing Export-U in 2007, which became one of the nation’s leading export training webinar platforms. Through his leadership and commitment, it has grown into a powerful resource for exporters and trade professionals across the country.
But beyond his accomplishments, Bob will be remembered for who he was as a person. As one of his Georgia DEC colleagues shared, in more than 30 years they never saw Bob without a smile. He helped launch countless careers and businesses, and he truly lit up every room he entered.
Bob’s impact on NADEC, the DECs, and the broader exporting community will not be forgotten.
We are deeply grateful for his service, his leadership, and his friendship.
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2026 Trade Policy Agenda and
2025 Annual Report to Congress
Dr. John Pournoor
Trade Policy Committee Chair, Minnesota DEC
The 2026 Trade Policy Agenda and 2025 Annual Report to Congress signals a shift in U.S. trade policy toward a more strategic and enforcement-focused framework. Rather than emphasizing large multilateral trade agreements, the strategy prioritizes reciprocity, enforcement of trade laws, and supply-chain resilience. The report highlights expanded use of tools such as Section 301 investigations and stronger monitoring of foreign trade barriers that affect U.S. exporters.
Another key priority is strengthening supply chains in sectors including critical minerals, pharmaceuticals, advanced manufacturing, and metals to reduce dependence on concentrated foreign suppliers. The agenda also emphasizes addressing non-market economic practices and industrial overcapacity, particularly in relation to major producers.
For small and medium-sized exporters, this approach may create opportunities through improved enforcement against unfair trade barriers and more targeted bilateral trade arrangements. Overall, the report reflects an evolution in U.S. trade policy that treats trade as a tool for economic security, domestic industrial capacity, and competitive global positioning.
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Special Edition: Honoring a Legacy of Trade Excellence
(1981–2026)
Fred Latuperissa
Education and Outreach Committee Chair, California Inland Empire DEC
45 Years of Powering the American Export Engine
The NADEC - Education & Outreach Committee is proud to celebrate a monumental milestone: 45 years of the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service (US&FCS) and its unwavering support for U.S. exporters.
Since its formal establishment in 1981, the US&FCS has been the "front line" of American business abroad. By linking domestic trade offices with a sophisticated global network of overseas posts, the U.S. Department of Commerce created a transformative bridge for American companies to reach international markets.
A Legacy of Public-Private Partnership
For nearly half a century, the District Export Council (DEC) network has stood shoulder-to-shoulder with our federal partners. Our mission remains clear:
- Volunteer Leadership: Guiding the next generation of American exporters.
- Strategic Mentorship: Sharing real-world expertise to navigate complex global markets.
- Education & Outreach: Advancing U.S. competitiveness through strong collaboration.
In 2026, we look back with pride on 45 years of connection, growth, and resilience. Together, DEC members and Commercial Service professionals continue to turn global opportunities into American success stories.
Join Us in Nashville: The 2026 NADEC Annual Export Conference
We invite all colleagues and trade professionals to celebrate this anniversary at the premier export event of the year.
- Dates: May 12–13, 2026
- Location: Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center | Nashville, Tennessee
- Focus: Commemorating 46 years of service and strategizing for the future of U.S. trade.
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Register Now
Early Bird Registration Ends on March 31st.
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Please share your events with the
NADEC Network!
Please send any events that you would like added to the newsletter to Brenda Stelly, Communications Chair, at brenda@oilcenter.com.
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