Business Links between Arizona and Mexico

BUILDING LINKS BETWEEN TUCSON ORGANIZATIONS AND MEXICO

Bernardo Mendez, Deputy Consul of Mexico in Tucson, Tel 520-882-5595 Ext 115. Comments: consulmendez@yahoo.com

Website of the Consulate in Tucson: http://portal.sre.gob.mx/tucson

Promexico Events in Spanish for Trade Promotion taking place in Hermosillo and Nogales, Sonora.

CÓMO EXPORTAR A CHINA, HONG KONG Y TAIWAN HOTEL FIESTA INN HERMOSILLO, SONORA 11/12/2008 11/12/2008 8 5 de noviembre
LEY DE BIOTERRORISMO, NORMAS HACCP Y REQUERIMIENTOS FDA PARA PRODUCTOS ALIMENTICIOS SUBDELEGACIÓN DE LA SECRETARIA DE ECONOMÍA EN NOGALES SONORA NOGALES, SONORA 26-11-08 26-11-08 8 19 de noviembre

Highlights of September 2008: www.offshoregroup.com
Tucson, Az
The Offshore Group’s ISO 9001:2000 certified Shelter Program was established in 1986. As the leading provider of outsourced manufacturing support, or “shelter,” services in Mexico, The Offshore Group has partnered with medical device, electronics, aerospace automotive and optics manufacturers in a way that enables them to reduce overall costs, to limit the expenses and risks related to the establishment of a foreign subsidiary, as well as to reap the benefits associated with the outsourcing of non-core administrative and operational functions to an experienced and highly trained team of international professionals.

The Offshore Group manages the intricacies of doing business in Mexico. Our integrated package of services includes:
• Human resources management and administration
• On-site worker medical care
• Payroll and benefit management
• Accounting and payroll management
• Logistics and facilities services
• Park management
• Procurement and environmental services
• As well as assistance in the areas of government and community affairs.

Companies that choose to enter the Maquiladora Program through The Offshore Group do so via a contract executed with Offshore International, Inc. of Tucson, Arizona, and, therefore, operate in Mexico within the framework of the U.S. legal system. This enables manufacturers to significantly reduce risk, as well as to avoid many of the capital and other expenditures typically associated with such start-ups.

Under The Offshore Group's ISO 9001 certified Shelter Program, you manufacture... we do the rest!. For detailed information contact
New Business Development. The Offshore Group
8350 East Old Vail Road. Tucson, Arizona 85747
Tel: (520) 889-0022. Fax: (520) 573-9316
Email: youmanufacture@offshoregroup.com

Fundacion de Apoyo Infantil de Sonora: www.fai-son.org
Director General: Mr Jorge Valenzuela.
E-mail: jorge@fai-son.org

FAI Sonora is a privately funded, non-profit institution with no religious or political affiliations, dedicated to sustainable human and community development, whose primary objective is to help improve conditions and quality of life for Mexican children, adolescents and families who have been marginalized and live in poverty in both urban and rural areas.

The following is a brief summary of the most significant stages and events in the life of our foundation: 1973: On April 4, our foundation is established under the name FUNDECAI (Foundation for Community Development and Childhood Support). 1976: The Foundation starts to work with street children in Mexicali , North Baja California , with funds from Save the Children USA. 1978: The Foundation moves its office from Mexicali to Alamos, Sonora , where it starts a small rural development project, later supporting small production projects. 1982: The Foundation extends its work to Rosario, Tesopaco , Sonora , where it supports basic infrastructure programs. 1983-1984: In the state of Chiapas , in Las Margaritas municipality, the Foundation implements a Support Program for Guatemalan refugees, with the help of Red Barnet of Denmark and Red Barna of Norway.

In 1984, it starts work in the Yecora municipality, supporting production projects. 1985-1986: The Foundation begins to receive support from Save the Children Denmark for ecologically focused production projects. It also gives emergency help to those affected by the Mexico City earthquake through a housing reconstruction program in San Antonio Tomatlan, Huehuetoca and Jazmin. It also develops a program for street children in Tijuana , North Baja California , with funds from UNICEF and Christian Children’s Fund. The Foundation begins operations in Quiriego , Sonora . 1987: Upon reaching the goals proposed by the Foundation, both the refugee program in Chiapas , as well as the Mexico City earthquake relief efforts of 1985, become parts of other governmental institutions. An office opens in Mexico City under the coordination of teacher Silvia Bandejek. 1988: The Communal Banks Methodology is adopted, under the committed leadership of Dr. Juan Matheuw. 1990: Mr. Jorge Valenzuela Romero assumes the position of General Director, propelling the Foundation’s sustainable communitarian work forward and, under his leadership and vision, inaugurating a new stage of growth and significant development.

1993: The Foundation changes its name from FUNDECAI to FUNDACION DE APOYO INFANTIL SONORA , A.C. (Foundation for Childhood Support), with strong emphasis on child labor. 1991-1995: FAI promotes community development under the guiding principles of organized participation, self-management and sustainability in three basic areas: health, education and economic opportunity. 1996-2000: FAI starts summer camps and Children’s Conferences, as well as complementary activities related to the Health Guardians program, promoting and spreading awareness of Children’s Rights and the self-direction of children and youth. FAI MEXICANA coordinates National Conferences of all FAIs. The area of Sponsorship opens. Work begins in Aves del Castillo, Severo Girón, Cajeme and Beltrones in Obregón City , Sonora . The new Ecological Homes program begins. FAI moves its central offices to the new ecological building on agricultural land on the outskirts of Obregon City , Sonora , in the Commissariat of Providencia. 2001-2006: FAI Sonora establishes a long-term Cooperation Convention (2002-2012) with Ayuda en Acción, a Spanish international cooperation agency.

SEEDS: www.vilmorin.com
Office in Tucson:
Vilmorin has a Genetic Research Station in Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico and by the end of 2008 they will establish a Distribution Center in Hermosillo, Sonora and by early 2009, they are planning to open a second Distribution Center in Celaya, Guanajuato, Mexico. With more than 260 years of history Vilmorin always played a major role in the botanical and agronomical research. Nowadays the company is specialized in the selection, the production and the distribution of vegetable and tree seeds for professionals (farmers, plant producers and nurserymen).

Distribution network, professionalism of its collaborators, innovative and quality products, these are the recognized assets of the firm. Vilmorin is an international firm, with a French origin and an European culture which products are marketed in more than 100 countries.

Vegetable seeds

They are the core activity of Vilmorin. They represent 93 % of our turn-over. We market 35 species and we have 13 lines of breeding. Our range of products includes more than 500 varieties and we launch 30 new products per year Vilmorin is the European leader for the carrot and the processing bean. 1 bean on 2 consumed comes from Vilmorin.

Tree seeds

This little known activity is a part of Vilmorin activities since 1766. This department of the company represents a 2,3 millions euros turn-over (06/07) with 10 % due to international sales. Our range of products is composed of 3 typologies : broad-leaved trees (50 %), ornamentals (40 %) and rootstocks (10 %). It represents 400 species and more than 600 references.
1 tree on the 2 planted in France comes from Vilmorin.
We are the European leader for tree seeds

Highlights of August 2008:
www.globalarizona.com

More information: info@globalarizona.com

To encourage and support "Growing a GLOBAL Arizona," our site is targeted to business people, cultural enthusiasts, educators, students, families and visitors with GLOBAL interests. In addition to facilitating an understanding and respect of business and cultures around the world, we provide Global CONNECTIONS, business opportunities, trade, education, food & cuisine, resources and a comprehensive global business and cultural event.

BELLOVIN & KARNAS ATTORNEYS AT LAW IN TUCSON, ARIZONA.
Inmigration, family law, class action, medical malpractice and more, visit their web site: www.bellovinkarnas.com 131 East Broadway Blvd, Tucson, Az 85701. Tel 520-571-9700 and Fax 520-571-8556. Toll free number: 1-886-514-0791. Bilingual Spanish-English mail: vblackman@bellovinkarnas.com

News from Sonora for Potential Investors:
More information at: www.sonora.org.mx

Setting up in Sonora is easy. We offer the following site-selection and development tools:
• Scouting/Site Selection: One of our appointed multi-lingual professional staff members will show you around potential sites and provide to you the best possible information available regarding:
o Site analysis.
o Operational costs.
o Infrastructure/Industrial Parks.
o Set-Up Meetings with potential clients, suppliers, workers and universities.
Incentive program

• EZ-Set-up Guide. Click here to see the quick set-up guide or Click here to see the detailed set-up guide. Our "Softlanding" office staff will explain each and every one of the proceedings in great detail and will walk you through, to assure a smooth process while you are in business. We understand your urgency and our goal is to get you established and operating as fast as possible.
• Softlanding Program. Investors' Support Office (aka Softlanding) offers:
o Set-up guides and walkthroughs (with appointed personnel).
o Temporary office space at no cost while you build your own (subject to availability).
o "Welcome Wagon" Program to the Expats' family members living in Sonora.
o Liaison with labor authorities, universities, employment agencies and other Government Offices once you are established here.
We have softlanding offices in these three locations: Hermosillo, Nogales, Obregon.

CONTACT INFORMATION: BLVD KINO #309, PISO11, ASOCIACION DE AGENTES ADUANALES DE NOGALES


A.A.A. de Nogales, A.C
.
Javier Martín Freig Carrillo (01631) 313-2560 ó 66 al 99
E-mail: aaanog@prodigy.net

CANANCINTRA-NOGALES, SONORA (Small Industry firms organization)
www.canacintranog.org.mx
(There is a list of all firms that have membership)
Ave. Obregón 1676 Col. Moderna
Nogales Son. Tels:
01 (631) 3 13 99 84
01 (631) 3 13 15 89 Fax: 01 (631) 31 3 99 85
For more information you can call or e-mail to:
canacintranog@prodigy.net.mx
canacintranog@yahoo.com.mx
Presidente: Julio Cesar Torres Tovares: torresfiscal@prodigy.net.mx
Con el director de CANACINTRA Nogales: Lic. Martha Lorena Bolaños

Highlight Events taken place in Mexico, October 2008

October 9th and 10th 2008 III International Business Conference “Laguna Exporta 2008”. Torreon, Coahuila, Mexico. The main goal of this event is to promote trade exchange among Mexican entrepreneaurs, international buyers, Trade Attaches Abroad, local and foreign officials through Conferences, Workshops and Round Tables. This Conference focus on: Fresh produce, artisan and handicraft products, furniture, Construction (marble), Hotels and Metal- Mechanical Industry. The Business meetings will highlight: Export-Import Promotion, Joint Venture Development, Suppliers Development and Foreign Investments Attraction to Mexico. More information at: Centro Pymexporta Laguna, Torreon, Coahuila. Tel 011-52-871-711-0514 and 711-0516. FAX (52-871) 711-0516. centro_pyme@canacintratorreon.org
And: pymexporta@canacintratorreon.org

October 15th to 18th.- Business Opportunities for Foreign Investors in Real Estate, Infrastructure, Assisting Living and Tourism Development in Sea of Cortes five Mexican states (South and North Baja, Sonora, Sinaloa and Nayarit) IV Entrepreneurial Forum Baja California Meeting Point (www.bajacaliforniameetingpoint.com). Tel. 011-52 (664) 621.0333 and 011-52-664-681.0433. E-mail: info@bajacaliforniameetingpoint.com

www.hidalgotrade.com
www.hidalgo.gob.mx
Hidalgo Trade, is the virtual trade fair of manufactured and commercialized products by Mexican companies located in Hidalgo, in the heart of Central Mexico.
Here you will find a wide variety of products from different industries: food and beverages, handcrafts and gifts, metalworking, electrical-electronic, construction materials, textile and apparel and automotive and auto-parts, etc


www.radiooportunidad.com

Radio Oportunidad, Non Profit High Quality Spanish Radio with internet broadcasting from Tucson, Az and AM/FM.

You want to learn Spanish, learn about what is going on in the Spanish Speaking Community in Arizona and beyond? Music, culture, art, community affairs, local, national and international news with a new scope and focus. Listen to Radio Oportunidad:

www.radiooportunidad.com

Need to target nearly one third of Consumers in Arizona an Tucson? Call Toll free to 1-877-394-5838 or send an email to alan@hispanamedios.org write to Hispanic-American Public Broadcasting Network, P.O. Box 32604, Tucson, AZ 85761

National Association of Importers and Exporters of the Mexican Republic:
website: http://www.aniermsonora.org
SONORA BRANCH INFORMATION:
SONORA
ING. RUBEN A. REYNAGA VALDEZ
Main Representative
ANIERM Representation in Sonora
Israel González No. 292
Col. Misión del Real,
Hermosillo, Sonora. C.P. 83145
Tel: (662) 2-89-09-09
Fax: (662) 2-89-08-45
mail: contacto@aniermsonora.org

North American Free Trade Agreement
http://www.nafta-sec-alena.org/DefaultSite/index_e.aspx?DetailID=78
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PREAMBLE

PART ONE: GENERAL PART
Chapter One: Objectives

Chapter Two: General Definitions

PART TWO: TRADE IN GOODS
Chapter Three: National Treatment and Market Access for Goods
Annex 300-A: Trade and Investment in the Automotive Sector
Annex 300-B: Textile and Apparel Goods
Chapter Four: Rules of Origin

Chapter Five: Customs Procedures

Chapter Six: Energy and Basic Petrochemicals
Chapter Seven: Agriculture and Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures
Chapter Eight: Emergency Action

PART THREE: TECHNICAL BARRIERS TO TRADE
Chapter Nine: Standards-Related Measures

PART FOUR: GOVERNMENT PROCUREMENT
Chapter Ten: Government Procurement

PART FIVE: INVESTMENT, SERVICES AND RELATED MATTERS
Chapter Eleven: Investment
Chapter Twelve: Cross-Border Trade in Services
Chapter Thirteen: Telecommunications
Chapter Fourteen: Financial Services
Chapter Fifteen: Competition Policy, Monopolies and State Enterprises
Chapter Sixteen: Temporary Entry for Business Persons

PART SIX: INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
Chapter Seventeen: Intellectual Property

PART SEVEN: ADMINISTRATIVE AND INSTITUTIONAL PROVISIONS
Chapter Eighteen: Publication, Notification and Administration of Laws
Chapter Nineteen: Review and Dispute Settlement in Antidumping and Countervailing Duty Matters
Chapter Twenty: Institutional Arrangements and Dispute Settlement Procedures

PART EIGHT: OTHER PROVISIONS
Chapter Twenty-One: Exceptions
Chapter Twenty-Two: Final Provisions
NOTES

Annex 401: Specific Rules of Origin

ANNEXES

Annex I: Reservations for Existing Measures and Liberalization Commitments
Annex II: Reservations for Future Measures
Annex III: Activities Reserved to the State
Annex IV: Exceptions from Most-Favored-Nation Treatment
Annex V: Quantitative Restrictions
Annex VI: Miscellaneous Commitments
Annex VII: Reservations, Specific Commitments and Other Items

http://www.grasmick.com/nafta.htm#Grasmick's

NAFTA or TN Visas: List of Professionals of Canada, US and Mexico

NAFTA OR TN LIST OF PROFESSIONS ACCEPTED FOR GRANTING A VISA
• Accountant (baccalaureate, CPA, CA, CGA, or CMA)
• Actuary (Subcategory of Mathematician, below. Must be in a U.S., Canadian or Mexican professional actuarial association or society.)
• Agriculturist/Agronomist
• Animal breeder
• Animal Scientist
• Apiculturist
• Architect (baccalaureate or state/provincial license. Also see Landscape Architect, below)
• Astronomer
• Biochemist
• Biologist (Includes Plant Pathologist, below.)
• Chemist
• Computer systems analyst Must have:
o baccalaureate or
o post secondary diploma *and three years' experience
• Dairy Scientist
• Dentist (DDS, DMD, or state/provincial license)
• Dietician (baccalaureate or state/provincial license)
• Disaster Relief Insurance Claims Adjuster Must have:
o baccalaureate or 3 years' experience in claims adjustment, and
o completed training in appropriate areas of insurance adjustment pertaining to disaster relief claims
• Economist
• Engineer (baccalaureate or state/provincial license)
• Entomologist
• Epidemiologist
• Forester (baccalaureate or state/provincial license) (Also see Sylviculturist, below)
• Geneticist
• Geochemist
• Geographer
• Geologist
• Geophysicist
• Graphic Designer Must have:
o baccalaureate or
o post secondary diploma *and three years' experience
• Horticulturist
• Hotel Manager Must have:
o baccalaureate in hotel/restaurant management or
o post secondary diploma * in hotel/restaurant management and three years' experience in hotel restaurant management
• Industrial Designer Must have:
o baccalaureate or
o post secondary diploma *and three years experience
• Interior Designer Must have:
o baccalaureate or
o post secondary diploma *and three years' experience
• Land Surveyor
• (baccalaureate or state/provincial/federal license)
• Landscaping Architect
• Lawyer (member of state/provincial bar, or LLB, JD, LLL, or BCL)
• Librarian (MLS, or BLS. BLS must be one for which another baccalaureate degree was a pre-requisite)
• Management Consultant Must have:
o baccalaureate or
o five years' experience in consulting or related field. • Mathematician (Includes Actuary, above.)
• Medical Technologist/Medical Lab Technologist (Canada)/ Must have:
o baccalaureate or
o post secondary diploma *and three years' experience
(U.S. job must be in a laboratory to perform chemical, biological, hematological, immunologic, microscopic, or bacteriological tests, and analyses for diagnosis, treatment or prevention of disease)
• Meteorologist
• Nurse, Registered (must have state/provincial license)
• Nutritionist
• Occupational Therapist (baccalaureate or state/provincial license)
• Oceanographer
• Pharmacist (baccalaureate or state/provincial license)
• Pharmacologist
• Physician (teaching and/or research only, MD or state/provincial license)
• Physicist
• Physio/Physical Therapist (baccalaureate or state/provincial license)
• Plant Breeder
• Plant Pathologist (Subcategory of Biologist, above.)
• Poultry Scientist
• Psychologist (must have state/provincial license. Cannot qualify with just baccalaureate degree)
• Range Manager/Range Conservationist
• Recreational Therapist
• Research Assistant (baccalaureate and U.S. job in a post-secondary educational institute)
• Social Worker
• Soil Scientist
• Statistician
• Sylviculturist/Forestry Specialist (also see Forester, above)
• Teacher (baccalaureate degree: must be coming to work for a college, seminary or university only); no secondary or elementary school teaching.
• Technician or Technologist, Scientific. (E.g.: Electronic engineering technician.) Must:
o work in direct support of professionals in one of these disciplines:
biology
chemistry
engineering
forestry
geology
geophysics
meteorology
physics
o possess theoretical knowledge of discipline, and
o solve practical problems in discipline, or apply principles of the discipline to basic or applied research
• Urban Planner
• Veterinarian (DVM, DMV, or state/provincial license)
• Vocational Counselor
• Writer, Technical Publications (Technical Publications Writer) Must have:
o baccalaureate or
o post secondary diploma *and three years' experience
• Zool

NAFTA Professional Job Series List for applying for NAFTA Visa
Profession Minimum Education Requirements and Alternative Credentials
Accountant Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree; or C.P.A, C.A., C.G.A., or C.M.A.
Architect Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree; or state/provincial license
Computer Systems Analyst Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree; or Post-Secondary Diploma or Post Secondary Certificate and three years’ experience
Disaster Relief Insurance Claims Adjuster (Claims Adjuster employed by an insurance company located in the territory of a Party, or an independent claims adjuster) Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree and successful completion of training in the appropriate areas of insurance adjustment pertaining to disaster relief claims; or three years’ experience in claims adjustment and successful completion of training in the appropriate areas of insurance adjustment pertaining to disaster relief claims
Economist Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Engineer Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree; or state/provincial license
Forester Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree; or state/provincial license
Graphic Designer Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree; or post-secondary diploma and three years’ experience
Hotel Manager Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree in hotel/restaurant management; or post-secondary diploma or post-secondary certificate in hotel/restaurant management and three years’ experience in hotel/restaurant management
Industrial Designer Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree; or post-secondary diploma or post-secondary certificate, and three years’ experience
Interior Designer Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree; or post-secondary diploma or post-secondary certificate, and three years’ experience
Land Surveyor Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree or state/provincial/federal license
Landscape Architect Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Lawyer (including Notary in the province of Quebec) L.L.B., J.D., L.L.L., B.C.L., or Licenciatura degree (five years’’); or membership in a state/provincial bar
Librarian M.L.S. or B.L.S. (for which another Baccalaureate or Licenciatura degree was prerequisite)
Management Consultant Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree; or equivalent professional experience as established by statement or professional credential attesting to five years’ experience as a management consultant, or five years’ experience in a field of specialty related to the consulting agreement
Mathematician (including statistician) Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Range Manager/Range Conservationist Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Research Assistant (working in a post-secondary educational institution) Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Scientific Technician/ Technologist Possession of (a) theoretical knowledge of any of the following disciplines: agricultural sciences, astronomy, biology, chemistry, engineering, forestry, geology, geophysics, meteorology, or physics; and (b) the ability to solve practical problems in any of those disciplines, or the ability to apply principles of any of those disciplines to basic or applied research
Social Worker Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Sylviculturist (including forestry) Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Technical Publications Writer Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree, or post-secondary diploma or post-secondary certificate, and three years’ experience
Urban Planner (including Geographer) Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Vocational Counselor Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Medical/ Allied Professionals
Dentist D.D.S., D.M.D., Doctor en Odontologia or Doctor en Cirugia Dental or state/provincial license
Dietitian Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree; or state/provincial license
Medical Laboratory Technologist (Canada)/Medical Technologist (Mexico and the United States) Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree; or post secondary diploma or post secondary certificate, and three years’ experience
Nutritionist Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Occupational Therapist Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree; or state provincial license
Pharmacist Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree; or state provincial license
Physician (teaching or research only) M.D., Doctor en Medicina; or state/provincial license
Physiotherapist/Physical Therapist Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree; or state/provincial license
Psychologist State/provincial license; or Licenciatura degree
Recreational Therapist Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Registered Nurse State/provincial license or Licenciatura degree
Veterinarian D.V.M., D.M.V., or Doctor en Veterinaria; or state/provincial license
Scientific
Agricultural (Agronomist) Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Animal Breeder Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Animal Scientist Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Apiculturist Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Astronomer Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Biochemist Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Chemist Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Dairy Scientist Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Entomologist Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Epidemiologist Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Geneticist Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Geochemist Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Geophysicist (including Oceanographer in Mexico and the United States) Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Horticulturist Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Meteorologist Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Pharmacologist Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Physicist (including Oceanographer in Canada) Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Plant Breeder Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Poultry Scientist Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Soil Scientist Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Zoologist Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Teachers
College Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
Seminary Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree
University Baccalaureate or Licenciatura Degree

©Visa Bureau 2003-2008
The American Visa Bureau is a division of Visa Bureau Ltd, an independent UK company specialising in visa and immigration services to America.


Upcoming Events in Tucson for people wishing to open a small business, classes are in English or Spanish. More info with Ellen Hull: ehull@mac-sa.org

Microbusiness Advancement Center (MAC) offers free weekly orientations at the office in English Wednesdays at 9:30am and 5:30pm and in Spanish Thursdays at 5:00pm. Please call to reserve your spot at 620-1241

Upcoming Classes in English and Spanish include Introduction to Business Ownership and a 12-week Business Planning Course. Please call 620-1241 to learn more.
Calling all new and existing family child care providers!

Start or expand your in-home child care business. MAC’s 12-week class, ‘The Business of Child Care,’ will be offered in March 2008. Learn the business techniques, child development information, and life skills you will need to make your childcare business a success. Classes in English and Spanish.

For information and registration please contact Deborah Knox at 620-1241 ext.107. for Spanish with Jose Tornero or Ellen Hull for English, ext 104. Our 2008 schedule was designed for entrepreneurs like you, with evening and weekend workshops to fit your busy schedule. We advise you to register early, because many have limited space availability.

Classes are ongoing!

Contact Microbusiness Advancement Center to register or receive more information at 520-620-1241, or by email at admin@mac-sa.org
330 N. COMMERCE PARK LOOP, #160 - TUCSON, AZ 85745
PHONE: (520) 620.1241 - FAX: (520) 622.2235

E-MAIL: ADMIN@MAC-SA.ORG - WEBSITE: WWW.MAC-SA.ORG

More Mexican Business events at: www.pisodeexhibicion.com.mx

Information in Spanish about Mexico and Mexican issues: www.enlacemexico.info

The Mexican Guide for English speakers: www.insidemex.com
Comments: aran@insidemex.com

Security Issues in Mexico and abroad: www.securitycornermexico.com
Comments: Mario Gonzalez Roman: frog_mario@hotmail.com

Health issues of Mexicans and Latinos in the USA: www.ucop.edu/hia/
More info with Dr Xochitl Castaneda at: xochitl.castaneda@ucop.edu
All 49 Mexican Consulates in the USA participate in the Binational Health Week, more info at: www.sre.gob.mx/ime
The Health Initiative of the Americas, formerly know as the California-Mexico Health Initiative, was created in January 2001 under the auspices of the California Policy Research Center of the University of California, Office of the President. It is a collaborative effort involving government, academia, the private sector and community-based organizations of both countries.
The Initiative's objective is to coordinate and optimize the availability of health resources for Mexican immigrants and their families through bilateral training, research, and health promotion activities. It facilitates the development of complementary and coordinated projects involving key stakeholders in Mexico and the United States. The Initiative's first efforts have focused on Mexican states with the highest international mobility and California counties with high proportions of immigrant populations. HIA activities involve three main areas:
• Development and implementation of bilateral agreements and cooperative projects to achieve the best use of existing resources and to establish new initiatives;
• Health promotion and education projects, including binational health campaigns, publications, and dissemination of culturally sensitive health-related materials;
• Training of health professionals, including doctors, nurses, medical students, clinic administrators, and outreach workers, focusing on the specific health needs of the Mexican origin population;
Through funding from the University of California, The California Endowment (TCE), the California HealthCare Foundation, and The California Wellness Foundation, HIA has completed five successful years of operation, with achievements including the organization of annual Binational Health Week events, the development of a binational epidemiological surveillance system pilot project, the release of a special call for research proposals on migration and health, and the coordination of training for health care professionals and medical students.
News for Business people

New book by Isabel Valdes, she is the “champion” of Marketing Hispanics in the US and writes that: “My new book, Hispanic Customers for Life; A Fresh Look at Acculturation, (PMP, Ithaca, N.Y.) will be launched end of 2007; We are planning to tour several U.S. cities in 2008 not only to promote the book, but to celebrate Hispanic Marketing Pioneers; This book is dedicated to them!”. More books by Isabel Valdes at: www.isabelvaldes.com (Some comments about her previous books: “Marketing To American Latinos: A Guide To The In-Culture Approach, Part 2 by Hispanic marketing pioneer M. Isabel Valdes is a solidly presented, up-to-date, business oriented examination and analysis of the Hispanic-American consumer market. From studying diversity, geographic distribution, and buying power of Hispanic households to advertising strategies that target the hearts, minds, and wallets of Hispanic consumers, to digital marketing and an"integrated in-culture" strategy, Marketing to American Latinos is an extensively researched reference written especially for big and small businesses alike. Also highly recommended is Valdes' predecessor volume, Marketing to American Latinos: A Guide To The In-Culture Approach, Part I” .

The Mexican Consulate in Tucson serves Mexicans and all nationalities in Pima and Pinal counties, for the directory of the 49 Mexican Consular Offices in the United States, and in the rest of the world, please visit Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores (Mexican Foreign Affairs Secretariat) http://www.sre.gob.mx through this website you can find information in English for: Registering Companies, Creating Trusts, Foreigners Acquiring Properties, Rogatory Letters, Scholarships and other services. Mexican lawyers: Global Legal Services González Félix, Dager y Asociados http://www.globalegal.com.mx/

Fresh Produce Association of the Americas: www.freshfrommexico.com

Mexican produce is delicious and healthy, and the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas (FPAA) based in Nogales, Arizona is here to help get the word out about Mexican fruits and vegetables on American tables. Whether grown in a tropical valley or along the temperate coast, Mexico’s sun-kissed produce is some of the best in the world.
Some of Our Grandfathers were Founding Fathers.
Founded in 1944, the FPAA is a non-profit association of family-run businesses based in Nogales, Arizona. We’re dedicated to helping member companies grow, harvest, market, and import fresh, flavorful produce from Mexico. We make sure that grocers, foodservice managers, and restauranteurs across America receive a cornucopia of delicious produce. From point of sale promotions to lobbying efforts at national and state levels, the FPAA is committed to representing the needs and interests of our industry.
Grown with Pride on Family Farms
Mexican produce is grown with the utmost care on family farms that take pride in their livelihood. Mexico’s farming families are committed to using the best agricultural methods available, combining generations of hands-on knowledge with cutting-edge technology.
PO Box 848 Nogales, AZ 85628-0848 (520) 287-2707 (520) 287-2948


Purchasing of Real Estate in Mexico by Non Mexicans.- Article 27 of the Mexican Constitution bars foreigners from buying real estate in what is called the “restricted zone” (sixty one miles from the international border and thirty one miles from the seacoast). Outside this area, aliens can purchase real estate property but must agree before the Mexican Foreign Affairs Secretariat to be treated, for all intents and purposes, as Mexican nationals and abstain from invoking the protection of their country of origin with respect to that property. If the covenant is breached, all rights to such property will revert to Mexico. For the purchase of land in Mexico , the following must be met:- An application must be filed with the Mexican Foreign Affairs Secretariat (Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores, Dirección General de Asuntos Jurídicos) or any of its offices in the Mexican territory. The appropriate personnel will provide the official form {S1} and will help the applicant answer any questions on technical matters.- Prove the applicant's immigration status (FM3 o FM2 ).- File the application and attach to it a description of surface, measurements, landmarks and adjacencies of the land.- Pay the corresponding duties. I f the buyer is a company, it must prove it is legally incorporated. You can register a Mexican Corporation online, please enter: htpp:// webapps.sre.gob.mx-SIPAC27 Mexican Lawyers: Cervera-Gonzalez-Hurtado & Terranova www.cght.com.mx

Click on Representaciones, Directorio de Embajadas, Consulados y Delegaciones SRE (pasaportes), Consulados de México en el Exterior, and contact directly the Mexican Consulate or Mexican Embassy closer to your place of residence, you will find also links to other important Mexican websites. The main services we provide for non Mexicans are Visa for retirement in Mexico, Visa for Business activities in Mexico, some info for purchase of real estate in Mexico, Visas for adoptions of Children in Mexico, Power of Attorney for individuals or corporations to take place in Mexican territory, transfer of human remains, private planes going to Mexico, hunting permits, requirements for taking pets into Mexico, custom regulations, taking household effects to Mexico, among other services.

Latino population is growing fast in the US and we are close to 45 million Hispanic or Latino people now, a market that is about the same size and even bigger than the whole Mexican Market of 106 millions. What we have to know is that Arizona is one of the leading states in Mexican population and nearly 15 thousand enterprises (many of them small ands micro) belong to Latino and Mexican entrepreneurs. According to a recent demographic statistics, Arizona has around 6 million population of which nearly 2 millions are Hispanic and Mexican. Hispanic-Latino Children born in Arizona make now more than 35% of Arizona births and very soon -maybe in less than a decade-, Latino and Mexican descent students will be majority in K-12 public school system. More than 35% of the population of Phoenix and Tucson are considered Hispanic according to the US Census.

The best follow up of Hispanics in Arizona and their profile regarding demographics trends, business opportunities and buying power among many other issues has been done in the recent years by Dr. Louis Olivas in his Annual DATOS Review published by the Arizona State University, if you want to reach Dr Olivas, send an e-mail to olivas@asu.edu or search www.azeducation.edu

Of the nearly 45 million Latinos in the USA, Mexican descent population make more than 30 million of which around 1.6 million live and work in Arizona, the other percentage are Latino Non Mexicans. Phoenix and Tucson including its metropolitan region have a growing Latino Population close to 1.2 million Latino and Mexican population, many of them starting small and medium corporations. We need to avoid the stereotype of Mexican only as day laborers and cheap labor, hundreds of Mexicans that were farm workers or low paid service employees in Arizona are now successful entrepreneurs of all venues: owners of chain of restaurants, insurance brokers, mortgage and banking specialists, educators and teachers, software producers, you name it, and we are all over the business spectrum in Tucson.

It is important to have in mind that 31.8% of Arizona exports goes to Mexico only Texas has more (38.9%) 28.3% of export oriented jobs are related to Arizona exports into Mexico and this means almost 13 thousand jobs according to Arizona Manufacturing Employment Data in 2004. Only Texas has more percentage than Arizona in the whole USA (39%) for almost 78 thousand jobs related to exports into Mexico. California created almost 63 thousand jobs in regard to exports into Mexico but only represents 15.7% of total employment created due to export oriented manufacturing.

If you live in Tucson or near by cities and towns in Pinal or Pima Counties, and you are trying to target Hispanic and Mexicans costumers, you should be a member or at least come to the business mixers and workshops organized by the Tucson Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (Cámara de Comercio Hispana de Tucson): (www.tucsonhispanicchamber.org) call them at tel. 520-620-0005 and ask Ricardo Esquivel, he will give an excellent service with kindness and great timing, you can also send an e-mail to associate@tucsonhispanicchamber.org or office@tucsonhispanicchamber.org

For interacting with a new dynamic Mexican Small Business and Professional Organization (Camara de Empresarios y Profesionales Hispanos de Arizona, CEPHA) visit: www.cepha.org you may contact Jose Vargas at: jvargas@abmcorp.net Tel. 520-881-8130 or Laura Gutierrez at: lauras_creations@hotmail.com

The Microbusiness Advancement Center, www.mac-sa.org) in Tucson has many resources for small businesses. E-mail to Mr. Jose Luis Tornero: (jtornero@mac-sa.org ) Mr. Tornero is a native Spanish speaker will help if you call him at Tel 520-620-1241 ext 104 and guide you in your new micro enterprise in Tucson or ask Ellen Hull to be in MAC mailing list at: ehull@mac-sa.org The Pima College in Tucson also provides a wide number of free or low cost services for small entrepreneurs. Visit its web site at: http://www.pima.edu/smallbusiness/ or Call at Tel 520-206-6404 or send an e-mail to Theo Kipnis: tkipnis@pima.edu

For better outreach of the whole Tucson leading business people including small business strategies, please visit The Tucson Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, it has a wonderful website: www.tucsonchamber.org contact Paula Stuht at pstuht@tucsonchamber.org or Lizette Torres, Manager for Business Development:ltorres@tucsonchamber.org Do not forget two leading Tucson business magazines: www.tucsonbusinessedge.com and Inside Tucson Business (www.azbiz.com). For business news for all Arizona, please visit: www.bizaz.com and www.asba.gov

The Tucson Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce advice in its website that “Owning and operating your own business takes a lot of work and perseverance. The first step is to research your business idea as well as all applicable rules and regulations that will affect your business. By contacting the Tucson Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce you have begun the first critical phase. The Chamber is here to help you.

The Chamber represents 1,900 businesses in the Tucson area that employ nearly 120,000 people locally. The mission of the Chamber, which has not changed in its 110 years of operation, is to lead all public and private interests in Tucson to develop a climate in which business can create jobs and operate at a profit”.

As you go through the Chamber’s website, follow the “Business Checklist” to ensure you have read the basic information necessary to start your business. It is also very important to stay organized. We recommend you download the Arizona Department of Commerce’sEntrepreneur’s Edge at http://www.commerce.state.az.us/doclib/ABC/2004EntrprnrEdgeEng.pdf

as we constantly refer to this publication. In addition, the Small Business Administration has put out a fabulous resource for new small businesses containing online training courses and workshops. More info at
http://www.tucsonchamber.org/economic_development/operating-a-business-in-tucson/

Another interesting organization in Tucson is The International Trade Development Center that facilitates programs and projects integrating local technology for global needs. It works in a public/private/educational partnership to identify, evaluate, and develop commercially viable opportunities utilizing Southern Arizona’s unique intellectual capital. This includes over 20 bilingual/bicultural communities, global executives who retire here, bright students who come to study in Tucson, intellectual capital associated with the University of Arizona and the small- and medium-size business communities in the region. Email: Robert Shatz, Director: rshatz@tradedevelopment.org Website: www.tradedevelopment.org Phone 520-577-6990 Fax 520-577-9662

The vibrant vitality of Tucson can not be understood without the key role of the University of Arizona Campus in Tucson that has more than 10 thousand employees and academic staff for taking care of more than 37 thousand students. The University provides ideas, energy, research and new business incubators for the whole state of Arizona and has leading roles in many academic fields nation-wide. For global business and network of business and academic research and development please contact Mr. John Grabo who works for the Office of Economic Development with the University of Arizona in Tucson and he is in charge of increasing the global network of Tucson with business in Ottawa, Manchester, UK, Berlin and Mexico, more info at www.globaladvantagenet.com or send e-mail to: jburger@email.arizona.edu or jdgrabo@email.arizona.edu

if you are thinking to reach Mexican universities and their role in business incubators you will have to reach the Mexican Technological Business Accelerator (www.techba.com) that has already launched many Mexican high tech companies in Silicon Valley, Austin and Detroit, also developing relations for Mexican firms in Montreal, Canada and Madrid, Spain, you can reach the main brain person of this project at jorge.zavala@techba.com Techba is exploring to open a new facility in Phoenix or Tucson during 2008.

Other source of great outreach with US, Mexican and Canadian Universities is the Consortium of North America for Higher Education (www.conahec.org) based in Tucson. CONAHEC advises and connects institutions interested in establishing or strengthening academic collaborative programs in the North American region and this site has many key links to Mexican educational resources for Mexicans abroad including Mexican Higher Education on line (www.educamexus.org) and a wide range of educational and training courses in Spanish, please call 1-800-926-2444. CONAHEC is based in Tucson, more than 140 universities are integrated in this network system directed by Mexican Scholar and now Tucsonan Francisco Marmolejo, a hyperactive and friendly academic ready to help, reach him at: fmarmole@email.arizona.edu

A key organization for getting involved with Tucson Top People wishing to help new entrepreneurs arriving to Tucson is TREO (Tucson Regional Economic Opportunities, (www.treoaz.org) offers an integrated approach of programs and services to support the creation of new businesses, the expansion of existing businesses within the region, and the attraction of companies that offer high impact jobs and share the community’s values. You can call free if you are in the US to 1-866- 600-0331. E-mail to Lee Smith: lee.smith@treoaz.org raul.gamez@treoaz.org or Tom Moulton: tom.moulton@treoaz.com

Two leading organizations in Tucson that have many interlinked interests and are key promoters for a global Tucson outreach are: Sunbelt World Trade Association (http://sunbeltworldtrade.com) and the National Law Center for Interamerican Free Trade (www.natlaw.com). Sunbelt describes its activities saying that “Sunbelt utilizes the extensive knowledge of its many members to brief Southern Arizona businesses on the people, customs and business practices of foreign companies. Sunbelt World Trade Association is a networking group to promote international trade activities”.

It is worth describing in extenso the profile of The National Law Center for Interamerican Free Trade: “The National Law Center for Inter-American Free Trade is a 501(c) (3) non-profit research and educational institution affiliated with the James E. Rogers College of Law at the University of Arizona in Tucson, Arizona.

The Center is dedicated to developing the legal infrastructure to build trade capacity and promote economic development in the Americas. The Center was founded in 1992 and has worked closely with the public and private sectors on legal reform and development of best business practices in a number of substantive areas, including (but not limited to) the following: alternative dispute resolution, banking, bankruptcy, business formation and associations, competition law and policy, customs, electronic commerce, environment, family law, intellectual property, investment securities, judicial reform and training, labor, products liability, real estate, securitization, secured transactions and transportation.

The Center has also developed the InterAmSM Legal Database of laws, regulations and secondary source materials for several countries in the Americas. Additionally, the Center co-conducts a Master’s program (LL.M) in International Trade Law at the James E. Rogers College of Law at the University of Arizona. The Center (also in conjunction with the Master’s program and the law school at the University of Arizona) has been actively engaged in the training of legal scholars and professors from the Americas, Europe and Asia. More information for both entities with Mina Goldberg at: mgoldberg@natlaw.com

Among other resources in Tucson, It will be very helpful to visit the web site of the Tucson Center for Business Information in order that you learn everything about business and selling permits, taxes, events and workshops, most free of charge or low cost: http://www.tppl.org/research/business/ More info for conducting businesses in the Tucson region including all Pinal and Pima counties at: http://www.ci.tucson.az.us/business.html The Small Business Administration (www.sba.gov) chapter of South Arizona also has advisors with free consultations, sometimes in Spanish, for new entrepreneurs, please call at Tel. 520-670-5008 or visit Internet site: www.scoreaz.org with many web links for new starters and beginners.

If you live in Phoenix or near by, it will be very useful to be member of The Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, more info at: www.azhcc.com: Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, 255 E Osborn, Suite 201 Phoenix, Arizona 85012, Tel. (602) 279-1800 Fax: (602) 279-8900. E-mail: info@azhcc.com orRuben Romero: rubenr@azhcc.com

Speaking of the Phoenix region is worth mentioning that Arizona State University's global engagement agenda is moving forward with the Officer of the Pan American Initiative at ASU.

The Panamerican Initiative is helping ASU build and strengthen ties with international neighbors to the south and north, as well as increase the capacity of existing faculty and programs to act on a global basis. The Pan-American Initiative as an opportunity to advance ASU institutionally and to expand its capacity to benefit metropolitan Phoenix and the state of Arizona.

The Panamerican Initiative of ASU enhance mutual understanding and cooperation in the Americas by fostering collaboration between institutions of higher education. ASU already has links to Mexico and Latin America, but the Office of Pan American Initiatives gives ASU the opportunity to build on these links, to create institutional linkages and increase international institutions' awareness of ASU's research program. This Initiative has improved ASU's name recognition in Latin America and helping to coordinate and build existing programs of research and education in ways that will make collaboration advantageous to all parties.

The Pan-American Initiative is not a means of building competition with our neighbors, but a platform for building partnerships with international and other national institutions with the objective of enhancing our programs in engineering, bioscience and other technology-based learning. The plan is to focus on Mexico engagement, because of its strong institutions and proximity; industry and governmental involvement and funding; information transparency and coordination; and public awareness of ASU.

For increasing Mexico-Arizona relations is Ms Jacqueline Kochvar Interim Executive Director of the Arizona-Mexico Commission (AMC). (jkochvar@az.gov and Tel. 602-542-1287). The Arizona-Mexico Commission (AMC) is about connecting communities and changing business through advocacy, trade, networking and information. We are Arizona's premiere cross-border nonprofit organization. The AMC is mission-driven and chaired by Arizona's governor, and our membership champions Arizona's relationship with Mexico through grassroots policy development and binational partnership initiatives in Arizona’s and Mexico’s public and private sectors.

Ms Kochvar’s responsibilities include managing the day to day operations of the AMC, oversee staff work and provide support and guidance for further development and improvement, coordinate AMC projects with State, Federal, and local entities, oversee and coordinate the Strategic Plan, direct event planning and execution. More information about AMC at: www.azmc.org

It is important to stress that Mexican corporations and small and medium Mexican entrepreneurs are targeting Tucson region for opening new branches or new facilities to fulfill Mexican and Latino costumers in the United States. It is the case of Mexican food giant La Costeña that through its US branch Arizona Canning Co bought slim-fast plant for 27.5 US dollars to start soon a Mexican food factory. La Costena officials were attracted to the deal both because of the facility and its strategic location. "The decision to locate in the greater Tucson region allows us to greatly improve our production and distribution efficiencies in order to serve the U.S. market and future customers," Arizona Canning CEO Santiago Castro said in a statement from the company. "This facility not only serves our current needs but allows us room to grow; its proximity to rail, highway and air transportation is an attractive feature," Castro said.

Grupo México, a Mexican Mining Corporation bought in 1999 the assets of ASARCO Mining, that has several mines in the United States, three of them in Tucson region (Ray Complex, Mission y Silverbell). Mexican Cement giant CEMEX has a cement plant in Pima County and more than hundred facilities in Arizona. CEMEX has 13 plants in the US. These plants total sellings represent 13.4% of total worldwide sellings of CEMEX including Mexico. Other Mexican leading firms are coming soon to Tucson, very likely www.bimbobakeriesusa.com and www.sanborns.com.mx and it means more employment, investments and trade for Arizona as a whole.

It is not difficult to register a new Company, LLC or Corporation, generally you can do it at the offices for business registration or City Tax Branch in each City Hall, all you may need is the fictitious name of the new company, type of business, to pay an annual fee between 25 to 35 dollars and a similar registration fee. Larger businesses may pay more fees. To start your business in Arizona, visit: http://www.azcommerce.com/BusAsst/SmallBiz/

For credit and loans, learning about business plans, please visit: www.cplc.org/EconomicDevelopment/businessLending.htm to relocate your business in AZ, visit: http://www.commerce.state.az.us/BusAsst/Locate/

You want to buy Mexican products and services or invest in Mexico? Just visit the web page of the Mexican Foreign Investments Promotion Agency: www.promexico.gob.mx or directly to www.investinmexico.com.mx For more personal attention write to Promexico Los Angeles Office Top Officer, Mr. Fernando Santibanez: fernando.santibanez@promexico.gob.mx. Mexican President Felipe Calderon has enhanced the role of foreign trade promotion creating www.promexico.gob.mx former Bancomext has been integrated into Pro Mexico.

For financial information on Mexico and buying in the Mexican Stock Market, visit the web page of the Mexican Ministry of Finance: www.sat.gob.mx do not forget the Mexican Bank for Development with important programs for Mexicans in the US: www.nafin.gob.mx and the Central Bank of Mexico: www.banxico.org.mx

Don’t forget that Tucson has a leading firm for Real Estate Valuations in Mexico. Valuaciones Montaña Verde S.A. de C.V. and Bruce D. Greenberg Inc. have provided clients with experience and expertise throughout Mexico since 1996 with offices in Tucson, Arizona and Mexico City. They have performed over 1,000 valuation and/or consulting assignments encompassing over 2,500 properties. More information at: www.mexicovaluations.com

Most Mexican web pages have English version, for example the American Business Chamber of Mexico: www.amcham.com.mx you will find key information for investing in Mexico and excellent tips for doing business in Mexico.

Each state of Mexico has a website (there are 32 states, just write the name of the state like www.jalisco.gob.mx and all the rest is the same), for Mexican cities same procedure (www.mazatlan.gob.mx). Every Mexican state has a web site where you find all information of local exporters and promotional kits as tax free policies or low cost industrial parks and many times wide programs to attract foreign investors and federal policies to establish your company in Mexico, visit these wonderful websites: www.maquilaportal.com www.twinplantnews.com and www.mexico-now.com www.infomaquila.com for establishing a Mexican branch or finding a Mexican supplier of your company.

If you want to find out about the annual calendar of Trade Shows, Industrial events and Business Expositions in Mexico, please visit: www.pisodeexhibicion.com.mx or e-mail to Sergio Lira, Director General of this Semester publication: slira@pisodeexhibicion.com.mx

Most of Mexican states have a Foreign Trade Commission and some of them have offices in the USA. For example, the state of Guanajuato has a Trade Office in the US that promote exports of Guanajuato and attract foreign investments to Guanajuato, visit: www.cofoce.gob.mx or www.guanajuato.gob.mx It can be very useful to contact the Mexican Confederation of World Trade Centers such as: WTC México City, WTC Veracruz, WTC Guadalajara, WTC Morelos, WTC Aguascalientes, WTC San Luis Potosi, WTC Monterrey, WTC Puebla, WTC Guanajuato and WTC Ciudad Juárez-El Paso. This Mexican organization has relation with 300 WTC in 98 countries. More info with Ms Tony Jimenez in Guadalajara: confmexwtc@aol.com

If you want to start business in Mexico, you will need a legal firm with wide experience in business and investments laws. I know Attorney Gustavo Struck that works for Kuri Breña, Sánchez Ugarte, Corcuera y Aznar, S.C. that is a law firm with substantial experience in matters regarding, general corporate law, foreign investment, mergers and acquisitions, real estate and infrastructure projects, international trade, and financial matters. Contact information:Kuri Breña, Sánchez Ugarte, Corcuera y Aznar, S.C. Postal address: Corporativo Punta Santa Fe Torre "B" Prolongación Paseo de la Reforma No. 1015, Piso 8 Col. Desarrollo Santa Fe 01376 México DF. TEL. (52-55) 5292-5930 Fax. (52-55) 5292-5928. E-mail for Gustavo is: gstruck@ksca.com.mx web site of the firm is: www.ksca.com.mx

For Tijuana and border regions and wishing to buy Mexican real estate, contact Manuel Pasero Abogados, write him an e-mail to pasero@paseroabogados.com visit web site: www.paseroabogados.com

If you are exporting to Mexico fresh produce or animals you will need to contact the Mexican Ministry of Agriculture: www.sagarpa.gob.mx or directly to www.cofepris.gob.mx Also Visit the US Food and Drug Administration website: www.fda.gov

It is always good and useful to visit the Customs web sites of Mexico and the USA to have clear idea of new regulations and new security measures in both countries and the new US Anti-Bioterrorism Law: www.customs.gov and don’t forget the US Trade Department: www.trade.gov and for Mexico: www.aduanas.gob.mx and www.economia.gob.mx It is useful to contact Mexican custom-brokers in their web site: www.caaarem.org.mx with many key links to Mexican web sites.

Speaking of Transport and Costums logistics, SALEO (The Southern Arizona Logistics and Education Organization) is the first of several projects within a Puerto Nuevo work plan developed to promote and grow the transportation and logistics industry in southern Arizona. Its objectives are also in line with the educational excellence goal of the Tucson Regional Economic Organization’s (TREO) Economic Blueprint for the Tucson Area.

SALEO was borne of the need to raise awareness of the importance and value of the transportation and logistics industry to our region, especially the role that this industry plays within the region’s supply chain and as a catalyst for economic growth. SALEO will also provide networking opportunities for representatives of the transportation and logistics industry and the users of these services. SALEO will host dinner meetings on different logistics topics on the second Wednesday of each month.

In-depth Saturday workshops will be offered to expand on each topic as needed. Limited seating is available. RSVP to John Brown via e-mail to For more information, contact John Brown at azlogistics@comcast.net or al.altuna@pima.gov or the Puerto Nuevo Office at 520-791-5199 or just.ask@puertonuevo.us.

The US Tax Authority web site: www.irs.gov has good information for avoiding dual taxation when you do business with Mexico or other countries that the US has international treaties for avoiding double taxation.

If you have complaints about the services or goods you bought in Tucson you can easy contact the Tucson Better Business Bureau (www.tucson.bbb.org) or send an-mail to info@tucson.bbb.org The BBB's goal is to successfully resolve complaints involving buyers and sellers in a fair and timely fashion. This includes complaints involving consumer-to-business and business-to-business transactions that involve the advertisement and/or sale of a product or service. Information concerning the nature and resolution of complaints filed with the BBB is used in developing BBB reports on all companies.

You can not really go far in business if you do not know all the resources you can use to promote your business with the Hispanic communities in the US or Mexico and Latin American countries. You really need to visit the Small Business Administration web site: www.sba.gov or directly in Spanish at www.negocios.gov Remember your local SBA branch is a great asset for free or low cost training, ask for an appointment, just pass by and discover the possibility of a great change in your routine and business life, you are so close to become an entrepreneur as never before joining seminars and workshops at SBA. Most of these seminars and talks are free of charge or very low fees, you want to register now, please do it at: www.acteva.com/go/sba

Explore your own Arizona state tools visiting: www.locate.az.gov or the wonderful official page of Arizona Government: www.az.gov If you are working at US national wide, you will need to visit: www.firstgov.gov and for exporting your goods and services abroad you will need to visit: www.exports.gov and www.buyusa.com

For Mexican web sites regarding workers conditions, minimum wages, etc you will need to visit the Mexican Labor Department web site: www.stps.gob.mx and the Federal Environment Secretary: www.semarnat.gob.mx a very key website is www.bordercenter.org for Mexican Laws and Regulations and Mexican provisions that apply to hazardous waste exports to the United States, including laws, regulations, and standards issued by various government entities involved in this process. Border Center has similar information for USA and Canasda and is bilingual.

There are health regulations at US Federal level for your business facilities including workers safety, you will find very useful the OSHA web site: www.osha.gov For environmental regulations you really need to visit: www.epa.gov and of course do not forget the US Labor Department web site: www.dol.gov For Mexican National industry Chamber you need to visit:: www.canacintra.org.mx y and for Mexican National Commerce Chamber, visit: www.concanaco.org.mx

If you are thinking to explore the Mexican market and just trying to understand more the way Mexicans conduct business and cultural understanding you may need the help of Carlos Nagel, a Tucson based expert in Cross-cultural understanding of Mexico and Mexicans, visit his website: www.culturalexchangeservice.com Carlos says that “I am an intercultural interpreter and facilitator; I help folks to discover the processes by which they can more easily collaborate with those who are ostensibly different from themselves. Since 1978, when I created CES to link folks in Mexico and the US, I have helped many individuals find ways to collaborate with their counterparts in each country”. You can reach him at: closfree@hotmail.com

Just thinking to visit and explore Mexico? Near by, you have wonderful places in Sonora either love mountains and sacred Indigenous places such Pinacate Mountains and moon like sites around where US Astronauts trained before going the the Moon or you prefer beaches as beautiful Puerto Penasco (Rocky Point), San Carlos and Kino Bay or Father Kino Missions in Alta Pimeria, visit: www.onlysonora.gob.mx or you want to experience “a Desert Trek to the Sea” following the trade routes of pre-Colombian Hohokam Indians or retrace the footsteps of Spanish missionaries and feel the power of ancient volcanoes, just do “La Ruta de Sonora”, there are plenty of 3-8 days affordable eco-adventures packages, please visit the website: www.laruta.org

La Ruta de Sonora is promoted by the Sonoran Institute, (www.sonoran.org) — a model for geotourism — offers trips that sustain or enhance the character of a place — its environment, culture, aesthetics, heritage and economic well being. La Ruta invests a portion of its revenues in community and conservation projects. The Sonoran Institute and its partners published Conservation Priorities in the Colorado River Delta, a guide for restoration projects and better management of the Delta’s natural resources. In collaboration with the National Park Service Sonoran Desert Network, Sonoran Institute developed a monitoring plan for the natural resources of 11 National Park Service locations. This monitoring plan serves as a model for the Sonoran Desert and Apache Highlands regions.

It is no longer necessary to "import" your vehicle into Mexico if you do not intend to travel south of Guaymas, Sonora. A Visa (Tourist Card as US Citizen or permanent resident card holder with your country passport) is all you will need and it may be obtained at Kilometer 21. A vehicle importation station has been set up in Empalme to regulate those vehicles traveling deeper into Mexico. Visit: www.onlysonora.gob.mx

Travel Documents for U.S. Citizens Under the HSD implementation plan, the following documents are acceptable to fulfill document requirements:
• U.S. Passport: U.S. citizens may present a valid U.S. passport when traveling via air between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda, and may also use a U.S. passport when traveling via sea and land borders (including ferry crossings).
• The Passport Card (also referred to as the PASS Card): This limited use passport in card format is currently available for use for travel only via land or sea (including ferries) between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. Similar in size to a credit card, it fits easily into a wallet. Cost is 45 dollars.
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Time Line: In the implementation plan, the requirements outlined above are being rolled out in the following phases:

• Since January 23, 2007, U.S. citizens traveling by air between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda are required to present a valid U.S. passport, Air NEXUS card, or U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Document.

• Since January 31st, 2008, U.S. citizens traveling between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda by land or sea (including ferries), may be required to present a valid U.S. passport or other documents as determined by the Department of Homeland Security (for US citizens passports or passport card will be required by June First 2009 when traveling by land or sea to Mexico and Canada. While recent legislative changes permit a later deadline, the Departments of State and Homeland Security are working to meet all requirements as soon as possible. Ample advance notice will be provided to enable the public to obtain passports or passport cards for land/sea entries. Many border states are developing state-issued enhanced drivers licenses which will provide proof of identity and U.S. citizenship.

These new documents will comply with travel rules under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI). Several border states (Arizona, California, Michigan, Texas, Vermont and Washington) are working with the Department of Homeland Security to produce these enhanced drivers licenses be used by U.S. citizens instead of a passport to cross the border with Canada and Mexico.

You really will love our National Tourism Office web in English: www.visitmexico.com

Are you an alternative traveler? www.ourmexico.com and www.mexicodesconocido.com are great source of information, both in English. If you want to learn Spanish and have a unique learning experience traveling in Mexico, please call Ms. Myriam Barrientos in Tucson 520-906-8334 or e-mail her to: amigausa@aol.com she has a wonderful website of all her services: www.vive-mexico.com Myriam is also a journalist writer and translator

Tucsonan writer and photographer Richard D. Fisher is the world's leading canyoneer and international authority on canyons worldwide, and he is one of the world authorities on Mexican Cooper Canyon (www.coppercanyon.org).

Mr. Fisher has published many books on Mexico and the borderlands with the US especially National Parks. He writes that “Within Copper Canyon and the state of Chihuahua you can find traditional Tarahumara Indians festivals, the largest crystals on earth, Paquime and Mata Ortiz pottery, and the legendary Tarahumara Indian runners as well as the world famous "rails to adventure" on the incredible train through the canyon.

His Book “Copper Canyon” includes the History of the Copper Canyon and Tarahumara Indians, including "Unknown Mexico" by Carl Lumholtz and the "Silver Magnet" by Grant Shepherd. You will also find information on the current drought and famine relief in the Northern Sierra Madre in Copper Canyon affecting the Tarahumara Indian people and the food relief provided to the children by Mr. Fisher and many other Americans with the help o local and state authorities. The book provides maps, illustrations, and graphics for vehicle, train, backpacking, and hiking trips throughout this rugged and famous mountain range that hides the "treasure of the Sierra Madre."

Our outstanding Tucsonan photographer Richard Fisher leads us through this mystical region with breathtaking and stunning photography not only of the natural landscapes, but of many restored colonial towns as well as through modern cities along recently renovated freeways, paved roads and winding down through little-known hiking paths to remote waterfalls, gorges, and primitive Indian villages. Richard is always friendly and open to help you in case you decide to visit Copper Canyon, and lucky us he lives in Tucson, you can reach him at 520-882-5341 as he is a frequent traveler, better send him an e-mail to sunracer@cox.net

A leading company in Tucson regarding communications and Cultural Services for growing in the Mexican and Hispanic Market and many issues for marketing goods & services in the US is the one headed by Margaret Pulles, tel 520-248-6906, web site: www.pumacommunications.com or email her to: mpulles@pumacommunications.com

If you are thinking of organizing events in Tucson regarding Hispanic Community Affairs and Mexico Marketing the best person to meet in Tucson is Mr. Felipe Garcia that has exactly this title as Vice-president of the Metropolitan Tucson Convention and Visitors Bureau (www.visittucson.org) you can always reach Felipe at 520-770-2132 or e-mail him at fgarcia@visittucson.org

Immigration is a key issue between Mexico and the United States and business people need to know what can be done to solve or help to have a better understanding, I advise to learn more through Arizona Employers for Immigration Reform (AZEIR), visit their website: www.azsip.org. Update information on September 27th 2007 from Puerto Peñasco, Sonora, pointed out that Mexican President Felipe Calderon told U.S border states governors that immigration is an inevitable, natural phenomenon and he urged the U.S. Congress to approve reforms that would allow more Mexicans to work legally north of the border.

Calderon demanded that the United States respect ‘‘the right to work wherever one can make the greatest contribution.'' ‘‘Immigration is a natural phenomenon that is economically and socially inevitable,'' he told the meeting in this Baja California seaside resort town. In a rare acknowledgment of the costs of migration for Mexico, Calderon said his country ‘‘doesn't not celebrate migration ... our best people are the ones who go.''

Immigration and border security were among the top issues at the meeting, the 25th annual such event between Mexican and U.S. governors from states along the two countries' common border. Mexican officials were focused on stopping the illegal flow of U.S. weapons into Mexico and protesting expansion of U.S. border fencing. For the Americans, the drug trade, migration and border security topped the list. On September 24th 2007, the U.S. government announced plans to erect about 370 miles (600 kilometers) of fencing and 200 miles (320 kilometers) of vehicle barriers by the end of 2008. Tension over the fences - which have drawn criticism from environmentalists, land owners and politicians both in Mexico and the United States - surfaced at the meeting. ‘‘This is the great tragedy,'' said Carlos de la Parra, a participant in the conference's environmental panel, as he pointed to a map of proposed border fences separating nature reserves.

Mentioning a list of wildlife that migrates across the border, Parra, of Mexico's Colegio de la Frontera, noted ‘‘these animals don't cross the border to shop. They do it out of necessity.'' California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, who has opposed the border fencing, praised Mexico and its cooperation with its northern neighbor.

People willing to donate or voluntary work and you are ready to get involved and understand border issues, human rights regarding Mexican migrants and humane issues you may visit: www.borderaction.org www.borderlinks.org www.humaneborders.org www.derechoshumanosaz.org www.handsacrosstheborder.org

A leading non-profit organization based in Tucson for enhancing Mexican and Mexican-American rights in the US and Mexico is Fundacion Mexico (www.fundacionmexico.org) you can reach in Tucson, Mr. Florencio Zaragoza (fzaragoza@aol.com) who is the President. I can see you after work hours from 6 to 7 pm and later. I will be happy to help and advise if you need information for buying a house in Mexico, working or retiring in Mexico, buying Mexican art and artscrafts, investing in Mexico, traveling to Mexico or just “brain storming”. I am ready for you whenever you need me.