The Maryland / DC District Export Council (DEC) is a private organization that brings together experienced international business people who provide guidance and assistance in international markets. The DEC works closely with professionals of the U.S. Commercial Service in Baltimore. DECs play a major role in the planning and coordination of export activities for their communities.
On January 6, 2020, President & CEO of RIFE International Kwabena Osei-Sarpong was appointed member of the District Export Council. He will serve a one-year term from 2020 to 2021 as council member contributing leadership and business experience in support of the nation’s joint industry/government export expansion efforts.
Currently there are approximately 1,500 DEC members who volunteer their time and specialized expertise to assist small and medium-sized businesses in their local communities establish or increase export sales, thus promoting our country’s economic growth and creating new and higher-paying jobs for their communities.
He joins notable industry players such as Phil Gove, the International Sales Manager of Elliot Dredges, Karen Weiss, the Vice President- Healthcare Banking for Fulton Financial Corporation and Collen Fisher, the Maryland Director for the U.S Commercial Service.
“On behalf of the U.S. Department of Commerce, I am pleased to welcome you to the 2020-2021 term of the District Export Councils.” Ana M. Guevara Dep Assistant Secretary for the U.S. Field
Over the coming year, the U.S. Department of Commerce priorities will include USMCA, the U.S.-China Phase One Trade Agreement, the Indo-Pacific Strategy and outreach to women owned businesses.
“I am humbled to have been appointed to serve on the DEC. I look forward to utilizing my knowledge and experience to help the Maryland and Washington D.C business community in the export of their goods and services into overseas markets” Kwabena Osei-Sarpong