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Louisiana International Trade Conference

May 11, 2023

THE Conference Centre ON 11 (601 Poydras St, 11th Floor, New Orleans, LA 70130)

In conjunction with International Trade Month, the World Trade Center New Orleans will host the inaugural Louisiana International Trade (LIT) Conference. The LIT Conference will serve as Louisiana’s premier conference on trade and logistics, bringing together a robust compilation of panel discussions, marketing and networking opportunities, keynotes and appearances by high-ranking State and Federal officials, an exhibit hall and more. The LIT Conference is a signature event for the World Trade Center New Orleans, serving as a valuable resource to members across the international trade and foreign direct investment community.

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Conference Agenda

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8:00 - 9:00: Networking Breakfast

The Challenge of Striking the Right Balance Between National Security and Trade

From the China tariffs to Forced Labor to Export Sanctions, increasingly the U.S. has used trade reforms to address national security interests. How have these trade measures impacted legitimate trade and how should companies prepare for future trade restrictions that seek to address national security interests?

  • Eugene Laney – President and CEO, American Association of  Importers and Exporters

The Future of the Transportation and Logistics Industry

The transportation and logistics industry is undergoing rapid transformation. Join industry leaders to hear about current challenges and future trends.

Moderator

  • Kristi App – Vice President, J.W. Allen & Company, Inc.

Panelists

  • Otis Tucker – Owner, Trucking Innovation LLC
  • Drew Tessier – Senior Director of Public Affiars, Union Pacific Railroad

11:15 - 12:30: Networking Lunch

Selling the Louisiana Brand

The Louisiana brand is known across the world. Leaders from Louisiana’s leading brands will discuss how they have taken their brand global and explore challenges and opportunities to importing and exporting products from around the globe.

Moderator

  • Erin Butler – Director, U.S. Commercial Service New Orleans

Panelists

  • Alyssa Fletchinger Higgins – Vice President, Plush Appeal LLC
  • Zach Foster – Chief Financial Officer, Louisiana Pepper Exchange
  • Christa Cotton – Chief Executive Officer, El Guapo Bitters

Energy on a Global Scale

Louisiana is one of the world’s leading markets for energy production, processing, and transportation. It is a top producer of both crude oil and natural gas in the United States. What’s more, Louisiana is leading the way in the energy evolution. Join panelists as they discuss how global trends in the energy industry will impact Louisiana.

Moderator

  • Lacy McManus – Executive Director of Future Energy, Greater New Orleans, Inc.

Panelists

  • Heather Hohensee – Director of Government & Public Affairs, Tellurian Inc.
  • Jack Koban – Sr. Business Development Manager – Gulf Coast, Fugro

Breakout Session: Export Bootcamp

U.S. Commercial Service New Orleans’ “Export Bootcamp” program is aimed at helping new-to-export companies and existing exporters in Louisiana grow their international sales. Each Bootcamp features information-packed presentations from members of the Louisiana District Export Council and other local, regional and national experts in international trade. Topics covered include:

  • Logistics
  • Trade Finance
  • Market Selection and Entry
  • Digital Marketing
  • Legal & Regulatory Compliance

Bootcamps also include an interactive “Export Expert” session during which a Louisiana company describes their experience getting started in exporting, including the benefits gained, challenges overcome, and lessons learned along the way.

3:30 - 5:30: Post-Conference Cocktail and Networking Recption

Join us to celebrate the inaugural Louisiana International Trade Conference and network with trade and logistics professionals from across Louisiana.

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