Rep. Norma Smith to join trade mission to Taiwan and China
Rep. Norma Smith, R-Clinton, will take part in a trade mission to Taiwan and China June 4 through June 14. The goals of the mission are to better understand market needs, cultural differences and explore new market opportunities for Washington state goods.
The trade mission will be led by Secretary of State Sam Reed, and comes at no cost to Washington taxpayers. The Taiwan portion of the trade mission is hosted by the Taiwanese government, while the portion of the trade mission in China will be paid for by Smith.
“This is a truly exciting opportunity,” said Smith, who serves as the ranking Republican on the House Community and Economic Development and Trade Committee. “At a time when businesses are struggling across the state, encouraging more trade with other countries could be a significant piece of our economic recovery. I am looking forward to learning more about how we can secure new markets for our products, while strengthening our significant economic partnerships.”
Trade missions typically last from eight to 11 days, and consist of a packed program with briefings, seminars, one-on-one business meetings, factory, school and site visits, official receptions, dinners, and cultural events. Official missions provide participants with unique access to high-quality information, people and officials that would be difficult to garner individually.
“When I return, I hope to share a new understanding of the unique needs of both Taiwan and China and how we can supply them with the high-quality goods that Washington state has to offer,” said Smith.
