New York, NY (September 17, 2021) — The World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) — a global network of more than 300 highly-connected, mutually supportive businesses and organizations — recently announced its newest lineup of Board of Directors for 2021-2025. All eligible WTCA members across nearly 100 countries were encouraged to learn about candidates and their views on how they would govern and lead the association if elected, and submit one ballot to fill each of the 12 open seats — representing more than half of the Board’s 22 Director seats. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the election process took place virtually during a 30-day voting period via a secure online voting service.

“On behalf of the WTCA Board of Directors, I want to thank every WTCA Member who voted in this year’s Board Election. More than 67% of our membership took the time to participate in this important event, which was held entirely online for the first time,” said John E. Drew, WTCA Chair, Board of Directors. “We had 23 exceptional candidates running for the 12 open seats on our Board, and we are fortunate to have such a dedicated group of people who are willing to volunteer their services to be an active part of our association. The WTCA is best served when its Board represents the diversity of its global members. And we look forward to this new Board – comprised of men and women across six continents who operate World Trade Centers – and all that they will accomplish to represent our global network and promote prosperity through international trade.”

The winning candidates in this year’s WTCA Board of Directors Election are as follows (listed in alphabetical order by region):

Asia Pacific Region:

• Ms. Pamela Pascual (World Trade Center Metro Manila)
• Mr. Simon Wang (World Trade Center Taipei)

Beijing and Xiamen, China (September 15, 2021) — The World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) — a global network of more than 300 highly-connected, mutually supportive businesses and organizations — recently participated in two leading international platforms in trade and investment — the 2021 China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) held in Beijing, China from September 2-7, 2021 and the 2021 China International Fair for Investment and Trade (CIFIT) held in Xiamen, China from September 8-11, 2021. The former, CIFTIS, focuses on fast-growing and emerging areas of service trade, and is hosted annually by the China Ministry of Commerce and Beijing Municipal Government. The latter, CIFIT, focuses on connecting investors, traders, service providers and government agencies to China and the rest of the world, and is hosted annually by the China Ministry of Commerce.

WTCA Executive Director-Business Development Robin van Puyenbroeck delivered keynote addresses at both international conferences in which he elaborated on the rise of digital globalization and the important role China plays in stabilizing global trade.

“Over the past year and a half, we have observed the acceleration of a digital transformation due to the pandemic,” said Mr. van Puyenbroeck. “We have entered an era of ‘digital globalization’ — transforming the way we live and do our business, and, as a result, creating a different work-life balance as well. At the WTCA, we have embraced this growing trend in technology and have successfully introduced an artificial intelligence-powered B2B matchmaking platform during our recent General Assembly for our World Trade Center members and their business networks to connect in this new virtual environment. As both China and the digitalization trend continue to advance, the WTCA will continue to support innovative conferences such as CIFTIS and CIFIT, along with their commitment to showcase innovations and new developments in service trade.”

The WTCA has served as an official international partner of CIFTIS since 2016 to organize forums with its local partners and World Trade Centers. The association has also participated in CIFIT for the past 10 consecutive years to provide access to the Chinese market for its member World Trade Centers and their business networks.

During this year’s CIFTIS, the WTCA co-hosted the “China International Healthcare Industry Development and Investment Forum” with the Beijing Association for Trade in Services and leading global independent investment bank Reynold Lemkins, which drew an in-person attendance of more than 100 high-level representatives. The forum was supported by AstraZeneca China and focused on the healthcare sector within the country. Mr. van Puyenbroeck also spoke extensively on the future of global trade with major Chinese media including People’s Daily, CCTV Focus Report, CGTN and China Plus News during CIFTIS.

Separately, this year’s CIFIT attracted more than 50,000 business people both online and in-person. During the event, the WTCA co-hosted the “20th World Business Leaders’ Roundtable” with CCPIT and the CIFIT Organizing Committee for the seventh consecutive year with the theme of “Artificial Intelligence (AI) Reshaping Industries.” Speakers from Baidu, Iflytek, Huawei and other major leading AI firms discussed the technology and applications of AI chip development, cloud computing, natural language processing, machine learning and the Internet of Things.

“In today's world where we see a new form of globalization unfolding, a digital globalization, the ability for people around the world to connect with one another in a trusted environment has become an essential business necessity,” commented Mr. van Puyenbroeck during his keynote remarks. “This is where organizations like the WTCA and its incredibly resilient international network has proven an indispensable tool for business. Our mission of facilitating global trade is now more important and relevant than ever, and the increased use of technology and AI will make our global network even stronger, more interactive and effective. I look forward to further our collaboration in the years to come.”

MEDIA CONTACT:

World Trade Centers Association (WTCA)
Chanelle Kasik
Phone: +1 212 432 2644
Email: ckasik@wtca.org

About World Trade Centers Association (WTCA)
The World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) is a network of more than 300 highly connected, mutually supporting businesses and organizations in 91 countries. As the owner of the “World Trade Center” and “WTC” trademarks, the WTCA licenses exclusive rights to these brands for Members to use in conjunction with their independently-owned, iconic properties, facilities and trade services offerings. Through a robust portfolio of events, programming and resources that it offers its Members, the goal of the WTCA is to help local economies thrive by encouraging and facilitating trade and investment across the globe through Member engagement. To learn more, visit www.wtca.org.

Published Coverage from 2021 CIFTIS: 

CCTV Focus Report

• "Focus Interview" 20210831 Tanguan Service Trade Conference Will Show You the Highlights (WTCA highlights at 02:10-02:25; 04:26-04:47; and 12:50-13:09 marks)

• China Plays a Key Role in Stabilizing Global Trade: WTCA

WTCA Executive Director-Business Development Robin van Puyenbroeck speaks with CCTV Focus Report

WTCA Executive Director-Business Development Robin van Puyenbroeck keynote address at 2021 CIFIT

WTCA Executive Director-Business Development Robin van Puyenbroeck keynote address at 2021 CIFTIS 

New York, NY (September 7, 2021) — The World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) — an international trade organization connecting more than 300 World Trade Centers (WTCs) in nearly 100 countries — today released a statement to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the events that unfolded on September 11, 2001:

“This week, we are taking time to reflect upon the tragic events that happened 20 years ago — to honor the victims and give thanks to the heroes who were affected. September 11 is remembered as the day that stunned the world and will forever be deeply etched in our association’s history.

We want to take this anniversary to not only remember what happened, but to look toward the possibilities before us. We have seen communities around the world come together, standing united to remember the significance of that day every year and working hand-in-hand to overcome obstacles, most recently the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. We are continuously reminded to appreciate and support the first responders around the world — police, firefighters, healthcare workers — who unselfishly risk their own lives to assist those in need every day.

As a global network, the WTCA and its World Trade Center (WTC) members show strength by coming together and supporting each other, just as we did in the aftermath of September 11, to navigate these uncertain times and reaffirm our mission of peace and prosperity through trade and investment. The WTC brand symbolizes strength, hope, prosperity and resilience.

To further commemorate September 11, the WTCA today launched its “#WTCARemembers911” social media campaign – where WTCA members will share commemorative posts with the hashtag to pay tribute to those who were affected by the tragedy. The campaign begins today and will continue through the weekend, culminating on Sunday, September 12.

“Through this campaign, the WTCA and all of the WTCs located around the world stand united to honor the principles and values that served as the foundation of our association, and demonstrate the strength and inspiration of our connected global community,” said John E. Drew, WTCA Chair, Board of Directors. “We are proud of the interconnectivity and diversity of our global membership base, where together we stand for our principles and work together on promoting respect for one another, care and intercultural understanding.”

For more information about the WTCA and its global network, visit www.wtca.org.

For those affected by the events of September 11 who are in need of support, please visit the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF), providing compensation to individuals (or a personal representative of a deceased individual) who were present at the World Trade Center or the surrounding New York City Exposure Zone; the Pentagon crash site and the Shanksville, Pennsylvania crash site, at some point between September 11, 2001, and May 30, 2002, and who have since been diagnosed with a 9/11-related illness. The VCF is not limited to first responders. Compensation is also available to those who worked or volunteered in construction, clean-up, and debris removal; as well as people who lived, worked, or went to school in the exposure zone. Visit www.vcf.gov. Additional 9/11 health resources may be found on www.911memorial.org/connect/911-health-resources.

MEDIA CONTACT:

World Trade Centers Association (WTCA)
Chanelle Kasik
Phone: +1 212 432 2644
Email: ckasik@wtca.org

About World Trade Centers Association (WTCA)
The World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) is a network of more than 300 highly connected, mutually supporting businesses and organizations in 91 countries. As the owner of the “World Trade Center” and “WTC” trademarks, the WTCA licenses exclusive rights to these brands for Members to use in conjunction with their independently-owned, iconic properties, facilities and trade services offerings. Through a robust portfolio of events, programming and resources that it offers its Members, the goal of the WTCA is to help local economies thrive by encouraging and facilitating trade and investment across the globe through Member engagement. To learn more, visit www.wtca.org.

Miami, June 30, 2021 -- There are signs of recovery in the market for Premium offices in Latin American cities with less than two million inhabitants. This is a relevant finding of the World Trade Center (WTC) Prime Office Index Latam, released in June by the business publication Latin Trade. The Index covers 21 large, medium and small cities in the region. 

The Index shows that the price per square foot on sales of prime office space in cities under 2 million like Monterrey and Montevideo, exceeds $280, a clear indication of lack of inventory.

At the same time, leases for Premium Offices in those cities will exceed $1.68 per square foot by the end of the year, an additional sign that there is room to increase supply.

The study also showed that the time needed to close the sale of Premium office space in Latin America increased this year and will increase a more in the remainder of 2021. However, rental prices will not fall. This is also reinforces the idea that the phase of falling demand and lower prices bottomed out in 2021.

Finally, the expectations indicator of the WTC Prime Office Index Latam was -19% in June 2021. This confirms an improvement in expectations compared the -32% in December 2020.

The WTC Prime Office Index Latam is built around an opinion survey with experts in the construction and brokerage of Class A offices in cities ranging in size from São Paulo and Mexico City to Colonia del Sacramento and Punta del Este.

Innovation

Innovation will be a key condition for success in the Premium office market. Some of the new World Trade Centers are setting new standards in this realm. 

WTC Montevideo recently inaugurated a second tower which is located in the city's free-trade zone. It was built as a niche player, specializing in service-exporting companies. The building also houses spaces for co-working and startups.

WTC Nuevo Laredo, which will begin construction in the coming months, will be characterized as a technological-logistics cluster. It will host the headquarters of the Mexican Institute of Logistics; a technology park; an innovation and entrepreneurship district; and a nanotechnology and biotechnology research and development center. It will also have some traditional WTC amenities, such as hotels, a conventions, business club and areas of medical and financial
services. The planned investment is $145 million.

WTC Goiânia, located in the most important city for Brazilian agribusiness, was conceived around a concept that will change the combination of living spaces, work, commerce, and social relationships. The two towers will mix a hotel, offices, apartments, commercial areas (a 2,635-square-meters shopping mall), and meeting spaces including a convention center.

“The work-life balance has changed significantly, with people returning to the office, albeit with caution. Commercial properties are recalibrating and redefining the purpose of their spaces. Purposes such as health, sustainability, connectivity. This is where the World Trade Center continues to be a great differentiator: state-of-the-art facilities that are part of a hyper-connected global community, present in nearly 100 countries, ”said Robin van Puyenbroeck, Executive Director-Business Development of the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA).

View the full report here: https://latintrade.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/WTCA-JUL-21-ENG.pdf

About Latin Trade

Latin Trade is a niche publication that covers business in Latin America with
its magazine and a portfolio of digital channels. Founded in Miami 27 years ago, it focuses on analyzing the trends shaping the business environment in the region.

About the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA)

The WTCA is the association that brings together World Trade Centers around the world. It stimulates trade and investment opportunities for property developers, economic development agencies and international businesses to connect globally and prosper locally. In Latin America, licenses have been granted for the development of World Trade Centers in 51 cities.

Key Takeaways

- Signs of recovery in some Premium office markets in Latin America.
- Results of the World Trade Center Prime Office Index Latam 2021, which calculated the business publication Latin Trade.

New York, NY (May 10, 2021) — The World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) — an international trade organization connecting more than 300 World Trade Centers (WTCs) in nearly 100 countries — today announced the launch of its new global WTCA “Trade Wins” Podcast. The podcast will offer intriguing conversation and insights on upcoming trends in the global trade sector from leading experts to help businesses around the world navigate today’s changing environment.

“For each episode, we will convene engaging conversations that will not only educate, but inspire our global community of WTCs and constituents active across all industries and sectors,” stated Robin van Puyenbroeck, WTCA Executive Director-Business Development and host of the podcast. “We will speak with leaders from business, government, academia, media and international organizations, as well as our very own WTCA members from around the world. And together, we will discuss and dissect the most pertinent news, trends and strategies that are having the greatest impact on our future.”

Available today are the trailer titled “Welcome to Trade Wins by the WTCA,” and the first two episodes of the podcast:

• “Global Trade at a Turning Point with Dr. Peter Rajsingh” features the educator and asset manager discussing how the world is experiencing a transformation towards digital globalization, and how key fundamentals of trade such as notions of competitive advantage, freedom, and mitigating surpluses and deficits are put under pressure.
• “Making Impact with Real Life Diplomacy with Ambassador Thomas Lambert” features the Belgian ambassador to Luxembourg’s informed take on conducting international diplomacy during COVID-19; international trade, economic policy, and multilateralism; and his work while serving as ambassador in the United States.

“The WTCA ‘Trade Wins’ Podcast is a thought-provoking platform for critical conversations about the global trade infrastructure,” continued van Puyenbroeck. “From our recent General Assembly, we learned that global trade infrastructure reform is much needed, and that companies should have a voice and be part of this conversation to develop more inclusive global trade to shape a better future.”

As part of the podcast’s launch, the association is hosting a book giveaway. The first 250 people to subscribe and send an email to podcast@wtca.org will receive a free e-book copy of “Enough About Me” by Richard Lui, filmmaker, author and anchor at NBC/MSNBC, who recently addressed the 2021 WTCA General Assembly on the topic of “Selflessness, Community and Building a Stronger Business.”

The podcast will continue many of the captivating virtual conversations that were presented during the 2021 WTCA General Assembly and Business Week from April 26-30, which gathered more than 1,000 participants including representatives from 169 World Trade Centers (WTCs) and more than 570 B2B Delegates across 70 countries.

New episodes of “Trade Winds” will be released every week, and will be available on Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher and Spotify.

For more information about the WTCA “Trade Wins” Podcast, please visit https://podcast.wtca.org/.

MEDIA CONTACT:

World Trade Centers Association (WTCA)
Chanelle Kasik
Phone: +1 212 432 2644
Email: ckasik@wtca.org

About World Trade Centers Association (WTCA)
The World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) is a network of more than 300 highly connected, mutually supporting businesses and organizations in 92 countries. As the owner of the “World Trade Center” and “WTC” trademarks, the WTCA licenses exclusive rights to these brands for Members to use in conjunction with their independently-owned, iconic properties, facilities and trade services offerings. Through a robust portfolio of events, programming and resources that it offers its Members, the goal of the WTCA is to help local economies thrive by encouraging and facilitating trade and investment across the globe through Member engagement. To learn more, visit www.wtca.org.