Contact:

Shawn Shepherd, (505) 277-6264 Steve Carr, (505) 277-1821

January 17, 2002

PARTNERSHIP AMONG UNM, ASM AND NMCIT STRENGTHENS LOCAL TIES TO THE GLOBAL MARKETPLACE

The Anderson Schools of Management (ASM), the University of New Mexico and the New Mexico Council of International Trade (NMCIT) have founded an initiative designed to strengthen the ability of New Mexico’s businesses to compete fully and successfully in the global marketplace.

The initiative has created an information clearinghouse and resource center located at the Technology Ventures Corporation. The office, provided by UNM and staffed by NMCIT’s Mary Alonso and graduate assistants from the ASM, is able to provide information that businesses need to expand beyond their local area.

“If a business owner needs information about the tax consequences of exporting to Mexico, we can help,” Alonso said. “If they want to talk to experts on changes in transportation and shipping issues, we can help. If they need to assess which foreign markets offer the most potential for their products, we can help. If we don’t have the answers immediately, we at least have the contacts to find out quickly and painlessly.”

“I see active participation in the global markets as vital to the economic development of New Mexico,” said Howard Smith, dean of the ASM. “This clearinghouse will enable individual business to take specific steps necessary to make that leap without having to wait for state legislators to decide to endorse the program.”

NMCIT is an Albuquerque-based non-profit that conducts research an educational opportunities in international trade and is dedicated to increasing understanding of international issues and resources. Its mission is to promote international trade, cultural exchange and economic development throughout the state. To contact the clearinghouse call 272-7340 or e-mail nmcofit@hotmail.com.

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The University of New Mexico
Public Affairs Department
Hodgin Hall, 2nd floor
Albuquerque, NM 87131-0011
Telephone: (505) 277-5813
Fax: (505) 277-1981