SALT LAKE CITY, UT, USA - On June 1, 2016, World Trade Center Utah (WTC Utah) hosted its annual Central Utah International Business Forum in Richfield, Utah. This was the third forum of 2016 in a series focused on increasing international business and exports throughout the state of Utah.

While 25 percent of businesses are located in rural counties of the state, their exports make up a small fraction of the state’s total exports. WTC Utah’s rural international business forums serve as a platform for companies to learn more about exporting and are also a way for WTC Utah to educate businesses about the services it offers.

“Helping rural businesses export is a key focus of World Trade Center Utah,” said Derek B. Miller, president and CEO of World Trade Center Utah. “There is a wealth of untapped potential for international growth in Utah. Our forums connect companies in rural areas with information and resources that empower them to enter the global marketplace."

At the event, the Ephraim city based company Bailey Farms International and the Sevier county economic development director Malcolm Nash were honored with awards for excellence in exporting. Bailey Farms International received the Vanguard in International Business Award for successfully exporting high quality alfalfa throughout the world. Mr. Malcolm Nash received the Champion in International Business Award for his outstanding work in guiding Sevier County companies to export.

As the keynote speaker, Derek B. Miller spoke about how exporting can elevate local economies by stimulating job growth and increasing the quality of life in communities throughout the state.

Attendees at the Central Utah Forum also had the opportunity to hear from a panel of successful local exporters including Keith Bailey with Bailey Farms International, Harvey Scott with Redmond Inc, Josh Akiens with iGlobal, Steve Styler of Styler Daniels P.C., and Becky Johnson with the Utah Office of Tourism.

These forums are one of the many ways WTC Utah is helping companies throughout the state think, act and succeed globally. Other services include export assistance and networking opportunities. 

For more information, visit www.wtcutah.com.