WORLDWIDE TRADE NO SLOW BOAT TO CHINA; SOUTHEAST MISSOURI REGIONAL PORT AUTHORITY DIRECTOR GIVES UPDATE TO CHAMBER

CAPE GIRARDEAU -- Some big changes have been made in international trade.

"There's a vast international market out there, and with modern communications, you can become involved in the export/import business," said Allan Maki, executive director of the Southeast Missouri Regional Port Authority.

"International trade is no longer a `Slow Boat to China,'" added Maki, who was guest speaker at the Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce First Friday Coffee Friday. "People are becoming more comfortable in discussions of potential trade with other countries."

In attendance at the coffee session Friday were three representatives of the Missouri Department of Economic Development Bernard K. Andrews, senior project manager of existing business development; Jodi Krantz, project manager, national business development; and William O. Green, enterprise zone coordinator, research and support group.

Maki emphasized two points during his address Friday.

"We have requested that our port be designated as a port of entry by the U.S. Customs Office, and are seeking approval as a foreign trade zone," said Maki.

"We're also interested in establishing an International Trade Forum in this area," he said.

Maki said there are benefits to having a port of entry and foreign trade zone.

"You have to show 2,500 customs entries per year, which is based on any invoice item that comes in with a value of over $1,000," he said. "If we receive a port of entry designation, the federal government will pay for an agent and establish a customs house here."

The foreign trade zone would be a big plus for businesses, according to Maki.

"This designation would permit goods to clear customs at the port authority, from point of origin to destination," said Maki. "And, these goods are not subject to duties, or taxes, until they are taken out of the trade zone."

He said businesses would be able to stockpile raw materials, components, finished goods or supplies, delaying duties payment until, in some cases, the goods are sold.

Another big advantage for port customers would be that special sub-zones could be established within 30 miles of the port, at various businesses, he noted

"I believe there is enough international trade here to justify both designations," said Maki. "We've had good response to letters we've sent to area businesses to determine their involvement or interest. That brings us to the second point of emphasis, that of forming an international trade group."

The group, he said, would meet regularly, perhaps monthly, to discuss various products they are importing and exporting, and the many exporting and importing issues.

"We can discuss what opportunities there are out there," said Maki. "With computers, and contact with the Missouri Department of Economic Development, and other contacts in Washington, we can see what is needed in other countries."

Maki cited some of the recent needs, as disclosed by cable and computer communications with embassies around the world. Needed products include 50 used buses for Uruguay, 100,000 thermometers for Egypt, and first-aid supplies for India.

"If we can get a forum going here, we may arrange a visit to Europe or Japan for a group of businessmen," said Maki. "I recommend a trip to a foreign country for businessmen to meet with the people they are doing business with."

Maki also emphasized that the port operation did not depend entirely on the river and water transportation.

"You can go from Cape Girardeau to the Netherlands on water," he said. "But, we also have facilities for rail, truck and air transportation."

The port is located on a completed slackwater harbor at Mile 48 on the upper Mississippi River and is located about five miles from the Cape Girardeau Municipal Airport and Interstate 55.

The port was officially dedicated last April. Maki has served as executive director of the port since August 1988.

In other business at the First Friday Coffee, Harry Rediger, manager of JCPenney here, was recognized as "Business Person of the Month" for his work with the "Bobcat Den" at May Greene School.

The program, designed to recognize business persons who contribute to the community through fiscal, humanitarian, education and work-related avenues, is sponsored by Schnucks, the Chamber's public relations committee, and KTXI-KGIR Radio.

Rediger and his wife, Fran, have been involved in the Bobcat Den program, which is designed to help underprivileged children at May Green by awarding the youngsters Bobcat Bucks, which may be used to purchase Christmas presents for parents and relatives. The "bucks" are awarded for good behavior, attendance, scholarship and other positive traits.

Curt Smith, chairman of the Chamber's steering committee, reported on a survey being distributed concerning the city's licensing and taxing of merchants.

"The current ordinance dates back to 1936, and several questions have emerged concerning the licensing," said Smith. "We want merchants' input on the situation. A survey sheet is being sent to all chamber members, and we're urging all members to complete the survey and return it to the chamber office by Feb. 8."

Holly Rust Payne reported on the Leadership Cape program. She said that 20 people had signed up for the eight-session program, to be held every other Thursday, starting Jan. 24.

"We're hoping for at least 25 people for the program," she said. "People have until Monday to sign up for the class."

Additional information is available at the chamber office, or by calling Payne at 334-7100.