An international trade organization has set up a new chapter in the area. The North Carolina World Trade Association announced it has established a Southeast Chapter that is designed to serve the Wilmington, Fayetteville and Greenville regions. 

The NCWTA’s mission "is to promote growth of trade between North Carolina and the world by providing education and networking opportunities for our global ecosystem,” according to a press release. 

The newly formed chapter has several local representatives on its inaugural board, including N.C. State Ports Authority’s director of key accounts and commercial development, Tom Guthrie, who will serve as president. 

“This is a perfect time, post-COVID, to engage the international businesses in our region,” Guthrie said in the release. “By providing education and networking opportunities, we hope to understand and build local capabilities, share global best practices and increase international opportunities for our community.”

University of North Carolina Wilmington adjunct profession of international business Jay Schach will serve as president-elect. Paige O’Neill, international business development counselor at the Small Business & Technology Development Center, will be the group’s secretary. 

The new board is welcoming new members into the chapter and plans to host its first meet-and-greet next month. 

The purposes of all NCWTA chapters include the promotion of international trade, monitoring legislation that relates to foreign trade, supporting the business community by promoting a global cultural view and more, according to its website.