Dept. of Commerce: To Lead Sales Mission To Benelux Companies

Contact: Tony Hozeny, Department of Commerce, 608/267-9661

MADISON – Wisconsin firms interested in initiating or expanding sales to the dynamic markets of Belgium , Luxemburg and The Netherlands are invited to join the Department of Commerce (Commerce) mission to these countries form Nov. 8-14.

“The Benelux region is a major distribution hub into European markets and one of the world’s most industrialized areas,” Commerce Secretary Mary P. Burke. “I encourage Wisconsin to join this sales mission and learn firsthand about the opportunities in the region.”

The mission is open to all Wisconsin companies interested in establishing or expanding sales in the region. Top markets for Wisconsin exports include biotechnology, environmental technology, medical equipment, plastics, and safety equipment. In 2005, Wisconsin exports to Belgium increased by 11 percent; by 500 percent to Luxemburg; and by 15 percent to The Netherlands.

Companies in the medical equipment sector Weill have the opportunity to attend MEDICA 2006, the world’s leading medical trade fair, held Nov. 15-18 in Dusseldorf , Germany , (learn more at http://www.medica.de). Companies in the marine equipment industry can attend METS 2006, Europe’s premier marine equipment and leisure craft exhibition, held Nov. 14-16 in Amsterdam , The Netherlands (learn more at http://www.mets.nl).

Interested companies should contact Brad Schneider, Commerce, 920/420/1796 or brad.schneider@wisconsin.gov. Registration deadline is Friday, Sept. 29.