Governor Kaine called for a “coordinated international marketing strategy for Virginia” in his 2006 Economic Development Strategic Plan, to increase exports by 7%, create 3,000 new jobs and generate $300 million in foreign direct investments by 2010. In late May he launched the Virginia International Trade Alliance (VITAL) which is comprised of companies throughout the Commonwealth. This coalition will be tasked with advancing international trade and investment in Virginia. The Virginia Economic Development Partnership and the Virginia Port Authority are providing the structure and staff to help ensure the success of VITAL. VITAL has selected 10 key international economic issues to address. Each of these items will be addressed by a a task force to be Chaired by the individuals below:
Brand Virginia: Will Hall, Tallant Industries
China: Don Goldberg, D. D. Jones Transfer & Warehouse Co., Inc.
Emerging Markets: Art McKinney, McKinney & Co.
Foreign-Owned Companies: Steve Norris, American Hofmann
Global Logistics: David Mills, “K” Line America Inc.
India: Rantjit Sen, CXI
Mergers & Acquisitions: John Dearing, Virtual Strategies, Inc.
Policy: Rob Martinez, Norfolk Southern
Sales Office: Ryan Losi, Piascik & Associates
Service Exports: Laszlo Horvath, Active Media
The goals of the alliance will be to tap into the best practices of Virginia’s businesses, serve as a central point for the development of a coordinated international marketing strategy for Virginia and prepare and implement an annual work plan designed to increase international trade and investment throughout Virginia.
Currently there are 40 companies participating in VITAL. Any business, private or public, can apply to join VITAL providing they make an annual contribution of $1,607, to fund the activities and operations of VITAL. Being a part of VITAL offers the opportunity to connect and network with others while expanding international business opportunities for businesses and the Commonwealth.