BLOGS

Lower Shore firms urged to export

Jeremy Cox
jcox6@delmarvanow.com
Maryland flag

On the world business stage, the Lower Shore may be best known for its chicken meat.

But smaller businesses can tap into international markets as well. And the state of Maryland has tools employers can use to get their goods and services out there.

That's the message economic development officials are looking to send at an April 14 forum.

“We’re trying to introduce resources that are available from the state and federal government to help companies explore international markets or participate in international trade," said Dave Ryan, head of Salisbury-Wicomico Economic Development. “The larger companies tend to be well-versed in that, but some of the smaller companies are not.”

Officials with all three lower counties are participating.

Maryland has representatives based in several countries who can serve as liaisons with potential suppliers and customers, Ryan said. The state also offers grants for employers looking to offset the cost of tagging along with state officials on trade missions.

Maryland exports totaled about $10 billion in 2015, which represented just under 1 percent of total U.S. exports, according to Census data.

The Salisbury export forum is scheduled for 10 a.m. to noon April 14 at the Greater Salisbury building, 200 W. Main St. It's free to attend.