U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez today announced he will lead a U.S. business development mission to Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador October 16-22, 2005, the first business mission following passage of the Central American-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR) signed by President Bush earlier this week. The mission will highlight new U.S. business opportunities and stronger trade ties with Central America.

“CAFTA-DR levels the playing field for U.S. products and services while at the same time strengthening the fragile democracies of these Central American countries,” said Gutierrez. “I look forward to leading this mission and meeting with Central American officials to begin fully implementing this important trade agreement and opening this new market for U.S. businesses.”

The Business Development Mission will target industry sectors including Aerospace; Automotive Parts and Services Equipment; Building Supplies; Chemicals; Construction Equipment; Electrical Power Generation and Distribution Equipment; Environmental Technologies; Food Processing and Packaging; Information Technology; Medical Equipment; Paper and Paperboard; Pharmaceuticals; Plastics (Resins and Raw Materials); Printing and Graphics; and Textiles.

The mission will include three stops: Guatemala City, Guatemala; San Pedro Sula, Honduras, and San Salvador, El Salvador. In each city, participants will meet with key government and business representatives, Chambers of Commerce and industry, trade associations, and potential business partners.

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