Upcoming CONECT conference promises the scoop on international trade

You don't have to be a New Englander to attend the Coalition of New England Companies for Trade's (CONECT) Annual Northeast Trade & Transportation Conference—or get something out of it. In fact, the event typically attracts attendees from throughout the eastern United States and Canada.

The "T&T" conference has built a loyal following over the years thanks to a program that focuses on practical information that affects daily operations. This year's event, to be held March 23-24 in historic Newport, R.I., promises to be no exception.

Program highlights include the annual "Off the Record Session" and "Washington Update" with CONECT's Washington counsel (and this issue's "Thought Leader" interviewee) Peter Friedmann. Other sessions include: an update on customs initiatives by U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials; a look at contracts and pricing in air, rail, and ocean; a discussion on dispute resolution; reports on air cargo security, infrastructure development, and air and ocean trade lanes; and a customs attorney panel discussion.

Rounding out the program are keynote and luncheon presentations, exhibits, and CONECT's annual Gala Dinner and scholarship awards at the Ochre Court Mansion at Salve Regina University.

To register or for more information, go to www.conect.org or call (508) 481-0424.