Prince George, B.C. – Manufacturing and cross border trade will be the focus of special round table sessions  set for Wednesday in Prince George.

 

The sessions will bring together representatives from the BC Division of Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters, the US Consular General in Vancouver (Consul General Anne Callaghan in photo at right,  photo 250News archive) and Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada.

 

Although B.C.’s exports to the U.S. increased by 14.2% in the first seen months of this year, there are still challenges for BC companies.

 

One CME-BC Board of Directors member recently commented, “The greatest challenge in cross-border business travel is the complete uncertainty. I can travel with less worry and more certainty to China or Korea than to the US.”

 

U.S. Consul General Anne Callaghan says although much has been accomplished in addressing the challenges, they “ look forward to achieving much more.” This is not Callaghan’s first trip to Prince George. She visited in late 2011 shortly after settling into the post.

 

The sessions are supported by Initiatives Prince George. IPG’s CEO Heather Oland says the meetings   will provide an opportunity for local and regional businesses to share their concerns with key decision makers.