WILLIAM DONALD SCHAEFER, Governor

Ch. 257

SECTION 1. BE IT ENACTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF
MARYLAND, That the Laws of Maryland read as follows:

Article 83A - Department of Economic and Employment Development

1-204.

(a) The following agencies, boards, commissions, councils, corporations,
authorities, and divisions shall be included within the Department:

(8) [Office of International Trade! MARYLAND INTERNATIONAL
DIVISION.

TITLE 7. MARYLAND INTERNATIONAL DIVISION

[2-107.] 7-101.

(a)     There is [an Office of International Trade] A MARYLAND INTERNATIONAL
DIVISION within the Department to promote the development of international trade
activities and opportunities for the citizens of this State.

(b)     In furtherance of the purpose set forth in subsection (a) of this section, the
[Office of International Trade] DIVISION shall:

(1) Encourage Maryland businesses to increase international trade
activities, with special emphasis on exports, by:

(i) Providing informational and consultative services on the
international trade process including, but not limited to, market research and selection,
marketing techniques and risks, foreign trade laws and regulations, and the availability of
private or public financing;

(ii) Developing publications to facilitate the exchange of product and
services information between Maryland businesses and foreign businesses;

(iii) In cooperation with local government and the private sector,
initiating and organizing trade missions to and from foreign countries and participation in
trade fairs;

[(iv) Serving as a clearinghouse for seminars and conferences being
offered by the public and private sectors and providing programs to supplement existing
educational offerings;]

[(v)] (IV) Establishing an outreach program to small and medium sized
businesses with export potential that provides counseling and that utilizes experienced
private sector exporters and other qualified individuals;

[(vi)] (V) Assisting, where appropriate, in obtaining export related
financing through the Maryland Industrial Development Financing Authority and other
federal, local, or private programs; and

[(vii)] (VI) Channeling trade leads and providing a list of prescreened
foreign intermediaries;

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