World Trade Center Alaska

Alaska Business Monthly, Nov, 2007 by Robert L. Shake

I am proud to serve as the chairman of the World Trade Center Alaska (WTCAK) board of directors during 2007, the organization's 20th anniversary year. It's an exciting time to be involved with the center as Alaska's international trade economy continues to expand. Last year, exports from the state reached an all-time record high of $4 billion. These export activities support thousands of high-paying jobs, generate significant investments in our natural resource industries, and help to diversify the state's economic base.

For the past two decades, WTCAK has worked with its members and community partners to explore and pursue international trade opportunities. We are involved with companies from across the state, large and small, that share an interest in building their businesses by exporting their products or services to customers overseas. In addition, companies that provide services to the exporting community, such as banks, freight forwarders and customs brokers, have also joined the Trade Center. We have helped introduce Alaskans to new markets, such as the Russian Far East and, more recently, to emerging markets, such as China and India. The Trade Center currently has five trade development programs that are focused on both established markets for Alaska exports as well as some exciting, emerging markets with solid growth potential.

To carry out our mission of assisting Alaskans to succeed in the global marketplace, WTCAK has forged an effective partnership with the State of Alaska Governor's Office of International Trade and the federal government's Alaska Export Assistance Center. Together we endeavor to provide Alaska businesses with high-caliber trade information and assistance. This partnership brings together the resources of the private and public sectors in a manner that avoids duplication of services and ensures an overall effort that is coordinated and effective. It's an important partnership that is working.

I am confident that the next 20 years will see more successes for the Trade Center and its partners. I hope you will consider joining with us to build a strong international trade economy for Alaska.

Sincerely,

Robert L. Shake

Chairman

World Trade Center Alaska Board of Directors