EUROPEAN TRADE

The Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce is hoping to foster European trade contacts with local businesses through a new "Business Potential in Western Europe" program.

With the help of an international consulting firm, local businessmen will be able to join a U.S. delegation scheduled to attend a 10-day business program at Maastricht, The Netherlands. The charge for the Maastricht program is expected to be around $1,800 for each of the 15 participants, who will pay their own way.

European businesses will be represented at the program, which will be an excellent opportunity for Cape Girardeau business interests to make contacts with the European Community trading bloc.

At a time when Missouri exports are on the rise, it is important to continue tapping new international markets. The European trip could prove worthwhile. The 12-nation EC has become, arguably, the most important international market for U.S. goods. It allows for the movement of goods, money and people -- free from customs duties -- between the 12 European nations.

A 10-day business trip into the heart of the EC won't guarantee a single export for Cape Girardeau businesses. But it does open the door for local businessmen to pitch their goods to potential buyers in a growing market.