Kamlager-Dove Hosts Inaugural Trade Connect Event to Support Los Angeles Businesses

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - December 8, 2023

Media Contact: Maya Valentine | maya.valentine@mail.house.gov

LOS ANGELES, CA — Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) hosted her inaugural Trade Connect event for small businesses in the 37th District with representatives from the Small Business Administration, the Department of Commerce, the Export-Import Bank of the United States, and the Port of Los Angeles.

The introductory seminar provided an overview of exporting basics with the goal of assisting small and medium-sized businesses with entry into international markets. Representatives from key federal agencies summarized the main elements of exporting, including finding overseas customers and markets, understanding costs, and connecting businesses to valuable resources and services. This event underscored Rep. Kamlager-Dove’s efforts to bring federal resources to the district and empower constituents to take advantage of the Port of Los Angeles infrastructure that contributes $29 billion in exports to the local economy. 

"I was so glad to host my inaugural Trade Connect event with the Port of LA to give small businesses in my district the opportunity to benefit from international trade and access export opportunities,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. “International trade is a huge driver of California’s economy, with $29 billion in exports passing through the Port of LA each year. I am working to ensure that businesses in my District, including those owned by immigrants and diaspora communities, are able to take advantage of the infrastructure we have right here in Los Angeles. As a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, I am working to deepen international economic relationships that serve my constituents and businesses across LA.”

“Thank you to Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove for hosting today’s Trade Connect seminar to help Los Angeles business owners learn more about expanding into exports,” said Marisela Caraballo DiRuggiero, Director of Trade Development, Port of Los Angeles. “Our Trade Connect team is always ready and willing to help connect businesses to exporting resources. I hope to continue to work with Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove, who is an important partner for us in Congress.”

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