May 2025 | Newsletter

  • May 17, 2025

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Stay Ahead in Global Trade – Your Monthly Edge Starts Here!

Welcome to the World Trade Center Miami Monthly Newsletter—your go-to source for insights, opportunities, and updates that matter in international trade. From exclusive events and trade missions to industry intelligence and partner highlights, we bring you what’s next in global commerce.

📩 Don’t just stay informed—get involved. Explore new markets, expand your network, and engage with the initiatives shaping Miami as the Trade Capital of the Americas.

👉 Read on. Take action. Grow globally.👈

Written by: Alice Ancona, COO, World Trade Center Miami

As supply chains fragment and trade rules are rewritten, Miami is once again proving itself not just resilient, but essential — a city uniquely positioned to turn global disruption into strategic opportunity thanks to its role as a service-driven, hemispheric trade hub.

Interested in Reading More? Click Here to View the Full Article 

Welcoming Belgium to Miami: Belgian Trade Mission at WTCM

The World Trade Center Miami is proud to host an incoming Belgian Trade Mission on May 22, 2:00-5:00pm, at the World Trade Center Miami (5835 Waterford District Dr, Suite 100, Miami, FL 33126), spotlighting innovative companies across diverse sectors — from medical technology and sustainable waste solutions to design, education, and gourmet food. Participating companies will be holding B2B meetings at our offices as they explore partnership and market entry opportunities in South Florida and beyond.

For More Information reach out to Robert Hernandez, rhernandez@wtcmaimi.org

Meet the Delegation:

🔬 P3Lab
Industry: Medical Devices
Focus: Non-invasive eye-tracking tools for early detection of neurological diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
Seeking: Health institutions, insurance providers, distributors, importers, and sales agents.

♻️ Ecosteryl
Industry: Medical Waste Management
Focus: Microwave-based, water-free sterilization of medical waste — an eco-friendly alternative to incineration.
Seeking: Partners in medical waste collection and treatment services.

🏗️ Buzon Pedestals International
Industry: Outdoor Construction
Focus: Adjustable pedestal systems for elevated outdoor flooring — ideal for terraces, decking, and public spaces.
Seeking: Distributors and architects.

🎄 Globall Concept
Industry: Festive Decor & Lighting
Focus: Large-scale illuminated decorations and digital experiences for public spaces, shopping centers, and events.
Seeking: Decorators, installers, and resellers working with shopping centers, theme parks, and municipalities.

🧠 Tradanim
Industry: EdTech / Language Learning
Focus: Digital tools and programs supporting multilingual education for children and educators.
Seeking: Distributors, commercial agents, private schools, universities, and research institutions.

🏛️ Ateliers Anthony Cognaux
Industry: Decorative Stonework
Focus: Custom marble and stone creations for luxury interior and architectural projects.
Seeking: Architects, interior designers, contractors, and specifiers.

🧇 Dely Wafels
Industry: Food & Beverage
Focus: Premium frozen Brussels and toaster waffles, combining artisanal quality with large-scale production.
Seeking: Importers, distributors, and wholesalers in foodservice and retail.

See You There!
We look forward to facilitating meaningful connections and business opportunities as we welcome this dynamic delegation to Miami.
For More Information reach out to Robert Hernandez, rhernandez@wtcmaimi.org

 

Celebrate World Trade Month with Us at Trading After Hours on May 29th!

Thank you to the Pullman Hotel for a fantastic first edition of Trading After Hours + Table Top Expo in April!

In celebration of World Trade Month, the World Trade Center Miami is excited to invite you to a special edition of Trading After Hours — an evening of global connections, conversations, and culture.

Join us on Thursday, May 29, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Xixón Spanish Restaurant, where international business professionals, entrepreneurs, and WTCM members will gather for relaxed networking over authentic Spanish cuisine and drinks.

This is a great opportunity to expand your network, connect with key players in the trade community, and celebrate the spirit of international commerce in one of Miami’s most vibrant settings.

📍 Location: Xixón Spanish Restaurant, 2101 SW 22 Street
🗓️ Date: Thursday, May 29, 2025
⏰ Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

🚨RSVP is Required to Attend🚨

To secure your spot, please email Robert Hernandez at rhernandez@wtcmiami.org:

  • Your full name
  • Email address
  • Phone number

Name(s) and contact information of any guests

Space is limited, so RSVP today!

📢 2025 State of the Ports – New Date Announced!
Secure Your Spot Today!

The World Trade Center Miami’s 2025 State of the Ports Luncheon & Tabletop Business Expo has been rescheduled to Friday, July 11, 2025, at the Hilton Miami Airport Blue Lagoon.

Join us for exclusive presentations from Hydi Webb, Director & CEO of PortMiami, and Ralph Cutié, Director & CEO of Miami International Airport, as they unveil critical updates and forecasts shaping the future of trade and logistics in our region.

Plus, don’t miss the Tabletop Business Expo — a dynamic platform for companies to showcase services, explore partnerships, and connect with South Florida’s top decision-makers.

🎟️Already registered? No action needed — your registration will transfer automatically.

👇Still need to secure your seat or become a sponsor?👇

Individual Tickets

Luncheon Table Package (10 Seats)

Tabletop Business Expo

View Sponsorship Packages

Driving Trade Forward:
Highlights from the U.S.–Caribbean Conference

The World Trade Center Miami was proud to sponsor and actively support this year’s U.S.–Caribbean Business Conference—an initiative led by the U.S. Commercial Service and the South Florida District Export Council to deepen commercial engagement between the U.S. and Caribbean markets.

CLICK HERE to Learn More About Our Time at the U.S.–Caribbean Business Conference

Strengthening Ties: Ambassador of Türkiye Visits
World Trade Center Miami

On April 29, the World Trade Center Miami had the honor of hosting The Honorable Sedat Önal, Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to the United States, for a special diplomatic visit focused on enhancing bilateral trade relations. Ambassador Önal was joined by Mr. Resul Şahinol, Consul General of Türkiye in Miami.

Click Here to Learn More About The Honorable Sedat Önal’s Visit to WTCM

With exhibit space selling fast, the 2025 Show will span three halls of the Miami Beach Convention Center!

Registration is now live — don’t miss your chance to connect with the world’s food and beverage leaders in Miami this September!

Step Into the Future of Logistics — November 2025 in Miami
Transport Logistic Americas / Air Cargo Americas Debuts!

Get ready to connect, innovate, and lead at the most anticipated multimodal logistics and air cargo event in the U.S. — transport logistic Americas / air cargo Americas, coming to the Miami Beach Convention Center, November 11–13, 2025!

Presented by Messe München and the World Trade Center Miami, this powerful trade show and conference brings together global leaders across the supply chain for three days of unmatched opportunity.

Exhibit booth sales are now open — secure your space today and be part of the movement shaping the future of logistics.

CONTACT: 📧Robert Berrios or 📧Robert Hernandez today!

Connect Globally - Prosper Locally

Become a member of the WTCM today and unlock global opportunities for you and your company. Click on the link below for information and more details.

Take a look at our enhanced online 🔎Member Directory

Let’s welcome our Newest Members 🙌

Coface

Xixon Spanish Restaurant

The Moore Agency

Have you received your Official World Trade Center Miami Membership Certificate?

Contact Robert Hernandez, rhernandez@wtcmiami.org, to learn more about getting yours!

—————————————————————

Trading After Hours
May 29, 2025 — 6:00 PM – Xixón Spanish Restaurant- More Information

State of the Ports & TableTop Business Expo
July 11, 2025 – Hilton Miami Airport Blue Lagoon – More Information

Americas Food and Beverage Show & Conference – SAVE THE DATE!
September 10-12, 2025 – Miami Beach Convention Center – More Information

Transport Logistic Americas / Air Cargo Americas – SAVE THE DATE!
November 11-13, 2025 – Miami Beach Convention Center – More Information

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Ivan Barrios - President and CEO

Ivan Barrios

President & CEO

Ivan Barrios is the President/CEO of the World Trade Center Miami. Ivan has served in this role since January 2020.

He most recently worked as Vice President for International Trade Development & TEAM Florida missions at Enterprise Florida, Inc., the state of Florida’s official economic development agency. He managed a statewide team of trade specialists that assisted Florida companies to export their products and services overseas.

Ivan has organized 28 Governor led trade missions to 22 countries from 1999–2015 for three governors. Special projects included 3,000 one-on-one business matchmaking appointments for exporters, managing two hemispheric trade shows, producing and publishing five Florida International Trade and Services Directories, coordinating the activities of the Florida International Bankers Association and creating the Florida Trade Data Center, a first of its kind information hub for Florida exporters.

Ivan holds a position on the Board of Directors of the World Trade Centers Association, where he represents the North American region. His extensive experience includes serving as a board member for the South Florida District Export Council and the Miami-Dade County International Trade Consortium. Ivan is an alumnus of the University of Miami, where he earned his degree in Business Administration.

Alice Ancona

Chief Operating Officer
Alice Ancona has held this role since January 2020.  She is charged with boosting organizational resilience and value creation of the operations, events, strategic programing, marketing and trade shows of the World Trade Center Miami (WTCM). With over two decades of experience, she brings a wealth of expertise to her position. In addition, she is charged with creating and executing international trade programs, trade missions, economic development initiatives, advocacy efforts, and innovative revenue-generating solutions as well as providing strategic long-term planning for the organization.
Before joining WTCM, Ms. Ancona led the international endeavors of the Florida Chamber of Commerce, serving as a prominent advocate for policies that enhance international trade, logistics, and investments. Her efforts centered on removing trade barriers, expanding market access, facilitating exports, negotiating trade agreements, and strengthening Florida’s trade infrastructure. Ms. Ancona played a pivotal role in connecting Florida to the global trade arena, facilitating relationships with international stakeholders, foreign agencies, elected officials, member companies, and governmental bodies at the state and federal levels.
Prior to her work at the Florida Chamber, Ms. Ancona spearheaded the governmental affairs division at the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce. In this capacity, she directed policy agendas on a diverse range of issues, including trade, infrastructure investment, transportation, and workforce development. Her accomplishments include leading successful campaigns for the passage of crucial trade agreements, such as the Colombia FTA, DR-CAFTA, Panama FTA, Chile FTA, and KORUS. She also contributed to efforts to secure the Free Trade Areas of the Americas.
Ms. Ancona’s contributions extend beyond her professional roles.  She is a recognized thought leader and speaker at industry conferences, providing insights on global market dynamics, trade policy, and cross-border strategies. She has actively participated in various steering committees for Florida’s transportation planning initiatives and has been an active member of the Florida International Trade Partnership. Her involvement also includes serving on the Board of the Miami Dade County International Trade Consortium. Her dedication and achievements have earned her recognition, including the 2014 International Women’s Day Award from World Trade Center Miami, the 2015 Person of the Year designation by the Florida Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association, Inc., and the 2016 Women of Distinction Award from the Lauderhill Regional Chamber of Commerce.