HOUSTON GATEWAY OF THE AMERICAS IV
December 2, 2021
The fourth version of “Houston: Gateway of the Americas” took place on December 2 at the Partnership Tower in downtown Houston. The program, hosted by the Ibero America Consular Group and the Greater Houston Partnership, is designed to promote the Houston Region as the natural partner of the Americas, supported by its connectivity, large presence of Latinos and complementary economies.
The conference, chaired by Dean Emeritus of the Consular Corps of Houston Ambassador Juan B. Sosa, started with a welcome address from Bob Harvey, President & CEO of the Partnership, who made the case of Houston as a “Global City” and the interdependence it has with other regions of the world. Mamadou Beye, General Manager of Policy, Government and Public Affairs for Middle East, Africa and South America for Exploration and Production of Chevron, a Platinum sponsor of the conference, provided lunch remarks and introduced Rodolfo Coronado Molina, Dean of the Consular Corps of Houston, who gave the Keynote Speech of the luncheon, describing the role of the consulates in Houston, being the third largest consular cops in the United States.
The conference covered six sectors: Transportation, Energy, Business Services, Hospitality & Leisure, Education & Technology and International Affairs. A conversation was held between Susan Davenport, Senior Vice President for Economic Development of the Partnership, and Bill Fulton, Director of Rice’s Kinder Institute for Urban Research and co-author of the book “The Texas Triangle” that highlights the importance of the triangle as one of the mega centers of the United States.
The conference was financially supported, in addition to Chevron, by Platinum sponsor United Airlines, Gold sponsors Cheniere Energy, Texas State University, Foster Global, Houston Airport System and the University of Houston, and by Silver sponsors HDR, Procalidad, and Visit Houston. There were twenty-five exceptional speakers covering all segments and panel discussions were held after each segment. There were 106 confirmed participants and 96% turned out, an exceptional rate plus six unconfirmed attendees. Nest year the conference is expanding to Irving (Metroplex) and San Antonio in addition to Houston and the branding will be changed to “Texas: Gateway of the Americas”.
The conference, chaired by Dean Emeritus of the Consular Corps of Houston Ambassador Juan B. Sosa, started with a welcome address from Bob Harvey, President & CEO of the Partnership, who made the case of Houston as a “Global City” and the interdependence it has with other regions of the world. Mamadou Beye, General Manager of Policy, Government and Public Affairs for Middle East, Africa and South America for Exploration and Production of Chevron, a Platinum sponsor of the conference, provided lunch remarks and introduced Rodolfo Coronado Molina, Dean of the Consular Corps of Houston, who gave the Keynote Speech of the luncheon, describing the role of the consulates in Houston, being the third largest consular cops in the United States.
The conference covered six sectors: Transportation, Energy, Business Services, Hospitality & Leisure, Education & Technology and International Affairs. A conversation was held between Susan Davenport, Senior Vice President for Economic Development of the Partnership, and Bill Fulton, Director of Rice’s Kinder Institute for Urban Research and co-author of the book “The Texas Triangle” that highlights the importance of the triangle as one of the mega centers of the United States.
The conference was financially supported, in addition to Chevron, by Platinum sponsor United Airlines, Gold sponsors Cheniere Energy, Texas State University, Foster Global, Houston Airport System and the University of Houston, and by Silver sponsors HDR, Procalidad, and Visit Houston. There were twenty-five exceptional speakers covering all segments and panel discussions were held after each segment. There were 106 confirmed participants and 96% turned out, an exceptional rate plus six unconfirmed attendees. Nest year the conference is expanding to Irving (Metroplex) and San Antonio in addition to Houston and the branding will be changed to “Texas: Gateway of the Americas”.
WELCOME
Bob Harvey, President & CEO of the Greater Houston Partnership
Bob Harvey made the case of Houston being the most “global city” in the United States. Backed by its strong diversity, outward leaning attitudes supported by the Port of Houston, #1 in the United States in tonnage, the Houston Airport System, #6 in the United States and host to United Airlines Latin American division, and the Medical Center among others, has positioned Houston as the premier global city in the country. As a manufacturing center and the most important oil & gas center in the world, Houston possesses all the credential to be a leading “global city”. The 90-+ consular offices in Houston, #3 in the United States after New York and Los Angeles, is a testament to the global importance of the Houston region. To add to its remarkable portfolio of vibrant economic sectors Houston is now leading the transition to clean energy. The state of Texas is the leading state in wind and solar energy and the development of natural gas is helping reduce emission. The recognition of Texas as leader in energy is exemplified by the World Petroleum Congress, hosted by Houston, starting on December 5. |
Amb. Juan B. Sosa, Chairman of the “Gateway of the Americas” Conference
Juan B. Sosa explained the genesis of the “Gateway of the Americas IV” conference, started in 2015 together with Pete Garcia and Claudia Rojas. The objective of the conference was to position the Houston Region as the natural partner of the Americas supported by its strong presence of Latinos and complementary economies that have made the Houston Region the #1 trade partner with eight of the top thirteen economies of Latin America. Emphasis was made on the sea, air and land connectivity of Houston and Texas with the Americas and the relatively short distance between the two. Paramount in this relationship are the sea routes of the Port of Houston, the air routes with the Americas of the two Houston airports and the land connectivity by road and railroad between Texas and Mexico. |
TRANSPORTATION SECTOR
This segment covered sea, air, and land transportation in the state of Texas and connections with the Americas.
Sea Transportation was covered by John Moseley, Chief Commercial Officer of the Port of Houston, #1 in the United States in tonnage, and has connections with more than 1000 ports worldwide, and with all ports of Latin America. It has two container terminals and their throughput has exceeded three million TEUs (containers of 20 feet), 68% of the Gulf movement. The port handles 8300 vessels annually and has an economic impact of $339 B in Texas, with the route to Asia, through the Panama Canal, leading the increase in trade. The Port has embarked in an ambitious widening of its ship channel -Project-11- projected to finish in five years at a cost of $1 billion which is going to improve efficiency.
Aviation was covered by Luis Aviles, Senior Executive Air Service Development, of the Houston Airport System, who gave a briefing on how the airports of Houston are rapidly recovering from the pandemic. Houston is the only city in the United States with two first-class airports within its city limits. The Bush Intercontinental Airport is undergoing a capital investment and improvement program that will exceed $2 billion dollars, making it one of the most modern airports in the world. Bush Intercontinental is the #1 air cargo airport in Texas being Europe the main market. Houston is making efforts to increase its air cargo to Latin America against the dominant city of Miami. Houston has 47 non-stop flights to the Americas in addition to 30 on stop flights.
Land transportation was covered by Alejandro Solis who was part of a consulting group that carried a transportation study dealing with the border of Texas-Mexico. The study projected a dramatic increase in trade between Texas and Mexico, requiring an expansion of infrastructure to accommodate the new volumes. Emphasis was made in the need to improve efficiency and bring down the crossing time at the border. U.S.-Mexico trade triple from 1984-2019 of which 68% transited through Texas border. It is estimated that from 2019-2050 trade will grow by 33%. It is estimated that in 2019 border delays caused productivity losses of $68.3 million.
Sea Transportation was covered by John Moseley, Chief Commercial Officer of the Port of Houston, #1 in the United States in tonnage, and has connections with more than 1000 ports worldwide, and with all ports of Latin America. It has two container terminals and their throughput has exceeded three million TEUs (containers of 20 feet), 68% of the Gulf movement. The port handles 8300 vessels annually and has an economic impact of $339 B in Texas, with the route to Asia, through the Panama Canal, leading the increase in trade. The Port has embarked in an ambitious widening of its ship channel -Project-11- projected to finish in five years at a cost of $1 billion which is going to improve efficiency.
Aviation was covered by Luis Aviles, Senior Executive Air Service Development, of the Houston Airport System, who gave a briefing on how the airports of Houston are rapidly recovering from the pandemic. Houston is the only city in the United States with two first-class airports within its city limits. The Bush Intercontinental Airport is undergoing a capital investment and improvement program that will exceed $2 billion dollars, making it one of the most modern airports in the world. Bush Intercontinental is the #1 air cargo airport in Texas being Europe the main market. Houston is making efforts to increase its air cargo to Latin America against the dominant city of Miami. Houston has 47 non-stop flights to the Americas in addition to 30 on stop flights.
Land transportation was covered by Alejandro Solis who was part of a consulting group that carried a transportation study dealing with the border of Texas-Mexico. The study projected a dramatic increase in trade between Texas and Mexico, requiring an expansion of infrastructure to accommodate the new volumes. Emphasis was made in the need to improve efficiency and bring down the crossing time at the border. U.S.-Mexico trade triple from 1984-2019 of which 68% transited through Texas border. It is estimated that from 2019-2050 trade will grow by 33%. It is estimated that in 2019 border delays caused productivity losses of $68.3 million.
Panel:
The panel covered many topics addressing the Port of Houston’s impact in the Houston region, the competitiveness or lack of it of the airport in the air cargo route to Latin America, the challenge of funding the projects recommended to improve efficiency at the border and others. Juan Sosa was the moderator of the panel.
The panel covered many topics addressing the Port of Houston’s impact in the Houston region, the competitiveness or lack of it of the airport in the air cargo route to Latin America, the challenge of funding the projects recommended to improve efficiency at the border and others. Juan Sosa was the moderator of the panel.
ENERGY SECTOR
This segment covered the Panama Canal as an efficient mode of transportation, exports of Cheniere Energy to Asia, and Deep Water energy.
Ambassador Sosa made a presentation recounting the development of Panama and the canal as a transportation route and the need to expand the canal. At the time the expansion of the canal was implemented it had reached its maximum capacity of 14,000+ vessels and 240 million tons of transit and the route Asia to East/Gulf coast of the U.S. had become the main route. The expansion of the canal in 2016 has made it possible for LNG vessels to have access to Asia and allow exports of Hydrocarbons through the Panama Canal, making the U.S. a net exporter of hydrocarbons. The Panama Canal is cost competitive and LNG has become the third commodity after containers and LPG.
Serena Su, Manager, Commercial Structuring of Cheniere Energy recounted the origins of Cheniere and its first exports in 2016, becoming today the largest exporter of Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) in the world and averaging eighty transits a month through the Panama Canal. With terminals in Sabine Pass (Texas/Louisiana) and Corpus Christi, Texas, Cheniere continues to expand its operations in capacity and clients all over the world. In addition to exports, Cheniere has been a contributor in reducing greenhouse houses by changing oil exports to LNG. Of particular importance in its success has been the Panama Canal who is beginning to experience challenges on the capacity of the new lock, despite the recent expansion.
Albert Zapanta, President of the U.S.-Mexico Chamber of Commerce made a presentation on Wind Energy and a project led by BiNational Sustainability Laboratory (BNSL) and Stress Engineering Services, connecting Texas and Oaxaca, Mexico. Latin America was highlighted as a potential for deep-water energy with several locations throughout the hemisphere been targeted as potential sites for development. Deep water energy is based on wind and produces green energy. Stress engineering has been working on a project in Oaxaca, Mexico with positive results. BNSL is promoting the project in the Americas under the formula of Public-Private-Partnerships.
Ambassador Sosa made a presentation recounting the development of Panama and the canal as a transportation route and the need to expand the canal. At the time the expansion of the canal was implemented it had reached its maximum capacity of 14,000+ vessels and 240 million tons of transit and the route Asia to East/Gulf coast of the U.S. had become the main route. The expansion of the canal in 2016 has made it possible for LNG vessels to have access to Asia and allow exports of Hydrocarbons through the Panama Canal, making the U.S. a net exporter of hydrocarbons. The Panama Canal is cost competitive and LNG has become the third commodity after containers and LPG.
Serena Su, Manager, Commercial Structuring of Cheniere Energy recounted the origins of Cheniere and its first exports in 2016, becoming today the largest exporter of Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) in the world and averaging eighty transits a month through the Panama Canal. With terminals in Sabine Pass (Texas/Louisiana) and Corpus Christi, Texas, Cheniere continues to expand its operations in capacity and clients all over the world. In addition to exports, Cheniere has been a contributor in reducing greenhouse houses by changing oil exports to LNG. Of particular importance in its success has been the Panama Canal who is beginning to experience challenges on the capacity of the new lock, despite the recent expansion.
Albert Zapanta, President of the U.S.-Mexico Chamber of Commerce made a presentation on Wind Energy and a project led by BiNational Sustainability Laboratory (BNSL) and Stress Engineering Services, connecting Texas and Oaxaca, Mexico. Latin America was highlighted as a potential for deep-water energy with several locations throughout the hemisphere been targeted as potential sites for development. Deep water energy is based on wind and produces green energy. Stress engineering has been working on a project in Oaxaca, Mexico with positive results. BNSL is promoting the project in the Americas under the formula of Public-Private-Partnerships.
Panel:
The panel touched on issues of LNG capacity, exploration, pricing, government regulation and others. The Deep Water energy potential generated interest in regards to its cost, maturity of the technology, pricing and competitiveness. The Panama Canal and its relationship with Houston and Texas was also a subject of interest especially since Texas and Panama has established a “Strategic Partnership” that is taking advantage of the connectivity between Texas and Panama and the connection between the Panama Canal and several deep-water ports in Texas. Juan Sosa was the moderator of the panel.
The panel touched on issues of LNG capacity, exploration, pricing, government regulation and others. The Deep Water energy potential generated interest in regards to its cost, maturity of the technology, pricing and competitiveness. The Panama Canal and its relationship with Houston and Texas was also a subject of interest especially since Texas and Panama has established a “Strategic Partnership” that is taking advantage of the connectivity between Texas and Panama and the connection between the Panama Canal and several deep-water ports in Texas. Juan Sosa was the moderator of the panel.
BUSINESS SERVICES SECTOR
This segment covered Immigration Law and reform, the use of data to improve management efficiency, and Houston’s effort to be selected as one of the venues for FIFA 2026.
Joseph Perez, a partner at Foster Global, a nationally renowned immigration Law firm addressed the sensitive issue of immigration and the difficult process is going through, made more difficult by the surge of migrants approaching the Mexico-United States border, especially in Texas. Perez mention that the Immigration Law of the United States is one of the most complex laws that exist and it has been years since a serious Immigration Reform was seriously pursued by both political parties. Present at the conference was Charles Foster, principal of the firm, Vice Dean of the Consular Corps of Houston and one of the most distinguished Immigration lawyers in the United States.
Claudia Rojas, Partner, Chief Commercial & Marketing Officer of Procalidad, a leading consultant firm in Colombia doing regional work, and co-founder of the “Gateway of the Americas” conference, made a presentation on the importance of data in the management of business today. Procalidad is an expert in artificial intelligence and with seventy professional, is attempting to raise the use of data to improve the management capabilities of Latin American companies. This learning process has been relatively slow and requires more education of the use of these tools to improve business efficiencies.
Chris Canetti, President of Houston’s 2026 World Cup Committee Harris County, made a presentation on the FIFA 2026 Cup where Houston is competing for one of the 10 cities that will be selected in the United States in addition to three in Mexico and three in Canada and it is estimated that those cities selected will have an economic impact of $800 million to $1.3 billion dollars. Forty-eight countries will participate and play eighty matches. Each city will host six games. Potential opportunities for sponsorship were also mentioned. It is expected that FIFA will made a decision by mid-year 2022 at which point it will be clearer how the tournament will develop.
Joseph Perez, a partner at Foster Global, a nationally renowned immigration Law firm addressed the sensitive issue of immigration and the difficult process is going through, made more difficult by the surge of migrants approaching the Mexico-United States border, especially in Texas. Perez mention that the Immigration Law of the United States is one of the most complex laws that exist and it has been years since a serious Immigration Reform was seriously pursued by both political parties. Present at the conference was Charles Foster, principal of the firm, Vice Dean of the Consular Corps of Houston and one of the most distinguished Immigration lawyers in the United States.
Claudia Rojas, Partner, Chief Commercial & Marketing Officer of Procalidad, a leading consultant firm in Colombia doing regional work, and co-founder of the “Gateway of the Americas” conference, made a presentation on the importance of data in the management of business today. Procalidad is an expert in artificial intelligence and with seventy professional, is attempting to raise the use of data to improve the management capabilities of Latin American companies. This learning process has been relatively slow and requires more education of the use of these tools to improve business efficiencies.
Chris Canetti, President of Houston’s 2026 World Cup Committee Harris County, made a presentation on the FIFA 2026 Cup where Houston is competing for one of the 10 cities that will be selected in the United States in addition to three in Mexico and three in Canada and it is estimated that those cities selected will have an economic impact of $800 million to $1.3 billion dollars. Forty-eight countries will participate and play eighty matches. Each city will host six games. Potential opportunities for sponsorship were also mentioned. It is expected that FIFA will made a decision by mid-year 2022 at which point it will be clearer how the tournament will develop.
Panel:
The immigration sector was approached from different angles taking into consideration the human, political and economic angle. The Houston area is particularly impacted by immigration with one of every four residents having born outside of the United States. On the data presentation, the discussion revolved around the need and pace of companies incorporating data in their decisions. On FIFA, despite Houston being recognized as one of the top ten sports cities in the United States, there are several factors that may impact the decision. Juan Sosa moderated the panel. |
LUNCHEON
Mamadou Beye, General Manager of Policy, Government and Public Affairs for Middle East, Africa and South America for Exploration and Production of Chevron of Chevron a Platinum sponsor of the conference, gave remarks on the role of Chevron as one of the leaders in energy in Latin America. Chevron has its Latin America division in Houston and with more than 7000 employees is one of the leading energy companies in the United States and the world, and one of the leaders in innovation in the sector. Mr. Beye introduced the Keynote speaker of the lunch Rodolfo Coronado Molina, Consul General of Perú and Dean of the Consular Corps of Houston.
Coronado Molina’s presentation centered on the role and importance to the Houston Region of the Consular Corps with consuls general and Honorary consuls fairly even split. It explained the process of selecting a dean, the executive committee of the Corps, the regions and countries represented, the dynamic programs that it has, and the ample representation it has with consuls covering between five and ten states. Coronado Molina emphasized the communication of the consulates with stakeholders and strategic partners such as the City of Houston, the Greater Houston Partnership, the Port of Houston, the Houston Airport system, the World Affairs Council of Greater Houston and the Texas Medical Center among others.
During the luncheon a recognition was presented to Mónica Hernández, Senior Coordinator International of GHP for her outstanding work in coordinating events organized by the Consular corps of Houston and the Ibero America Consular Group.
Coronado Molina’s presentation centered on the role and importance to the Houston Region of the Consular Corps with consuls general and Honorary consuls fairly even split. It explained the process of selecting a dean, the executive committee of the Corps, the regions and countries represented, the dynamic programs that it has, and the ample representation it has with consuls covering between five and ten states. Coronado Molina emphasized the communication of the consulates with stakeholders and strategic partners such as the City of Houston, the Greater Houston Partnership, the Port of Houston, the Houston Airport system, the World Affairs Council of Greater Houston and the Texas Medical Center among others.
During the luncheon a recognition was presented to Mónica Hernández, Senior Coordinator International of GHP for her outstanding work in coordinating events organized by the Consular corps of Houston and the Ibero America Consular Group.
HOSPITALITY & LEISURE SECTOR
This segment covered air travel, tourism promotion, and a new look at the tourism sector based in sustainability.
Frederick Thome, Director Latin America Sales, Andean & Central America for United Airlines, a Platinum sponsor of the conference, made a presentation on United Airlines’ future outlook in terms of routes, planes, technology and its efforts to consolidate United Airlines as one of the leading carriers to Latin America. United is ordering 270 brand new planes and has 92 non-stop flights to 55 international destinations. To Latin America United has eighty departures to Latin America. Houston, with 14,000 employees serves a Headquarters of United for Latin America flying to most capitals in the Americas and a has a marketing agreement with Copa Airlines in Panama for different destinations in the Americas.
Jorge Franz, Senior Vice President Tourism for Houston First, discussed Houston’s efforts to become a tourist destination. He also addressed the negative impact the pandemic has had on the hospitality sector with a reduction in flights, strict protocols on restaurants, temporary closings of hotels and others. Franz highlighted Houston’s role as one of the most dynamic gastronomy cities in the United States aided by the diverse population of the region. Tourism is Houston’s fifth most important economic sector generating $12.9 Billion in direct spending. For years the sector has been increasing, registering 24.3 visitors in 2019 until the pandemic eliminated most of the gains that had been recorded. Houston First had launch the “Hola” campaign directed to the Americas and is considering relaunch it.
Ki-Joon Back, Associate Dean for Research & Graduate Studies of the Hospitality School of the University of Houston, one of the most renown hospitality schools in the United States, made a presentation on the challenges of the new post-pandemic era in the hospitality industry. Dr. Back emphasized the need to use metrics in the management of hospitality venues and adapt to the circumstances. He proposes a transformation of tourism emphasizing sustainability especially since 2020 was the worst year ever recorded in the hotel industry which will require sustainable policies to have the sector rebound.
Frederick Thome, Director Latin America Sales, Andean & Central America for United Airlines, a Platinum sponsor of the conference, made a presentation on United Airlines’ future outlook in terms of routes, planes, technology and its efforts to consolidate United Airlines as one of the leading carriers to Latin America. United is ordering 270 brand new planes and has 92 non-stop flights to 55 international destinations. To Latin America United has eighty departures to Latin America. Houston, with 14,000 employees serves a Headquarters of United for Latin America flying to most capitals in the Americas and a has a marketing agreement with Copa Airlines in Panama for different destinations in the Americas.
Jorge Franz, Senior Vice President Tourism for Houston First, discussed Houston’s efforts to become a tourist destination. He also addressed the negative impact the pandemic has had on the hospitality sector with a reduction in flights, strict protocols on restaurants, temporary closings of hotels and others. Franz highlighted Houston’s role as one of the most dynamic gastronomy cities in the United States aided by the diverse population of the region. Tourism is Houston’s fifth most important economic sector generating $12.9 Billion in direct spending. For years the sector has been increasing, registering 24.3 visitors in 2019 until the pandemic eliminated most of the gains that had been recorded. Houston First had launch the “Hola” campaign directed to the Americas and is considering relaunch it.
Ki-Joon Back, Associate Dean for Research & Graduate Studies of the Hospitality School of the University of Houston, one of the most renown hospitality schools in the United States, made a presentation on the challenges of the new post-pandemic era in the hospitality industry. Dr. Back emphasized the need to use metrics in the management of hospitality venues and adapt to the circumstances. He proposes a transformation of tourism emphasizing sustainability especially since 2020 was the worst year ever recorded in the hotel industry which will require sustainable policies to have the sector rebound.
Panel:
The panel was moderated by Pete Garcia, co-founder of the Gateway of the Americas conference and former Vice President for Latin America of Continental Airlines. Garcia moderated a spirited panel that addressed the pricing of the industry, the strategies between travel for business and for leisure, destinations in countries, recovering from the pandemic and others. Houston and the stakeholders in the industry have a challenge defining strategies for the future. |
EDUCATION AND TECHNOLOGY SECTOR
This sector covered the new Institute for Global Engagement at the University of Houston, an initiative on the part of Texas State University to be a player internationally and a highly technical effort on the part of Texas A&M in the use of Beam Neutrons.
Ambassador Michael Pelletier, former Ambassador of the United States to Madagascar, Founding Director of the Institute for Global Engagement of the University of Houston made a presentation on the goals of the new institute and UH’s efforts to solidify its position as an international institution. A large presence of international students at the university will make the core nucleus of the effort. Amb. Pelletier’s strategy is to have the global engagement of the University permeate all of the faculties in order to prepare the student body to live in a global environment.
Ron Epperson, Director, Strategic Industry Partnerships of Texas State University made a presentation on the profile of Texas State as one of the largest universities in the state of Texas that as a #2 tier university is making progress to be designated a Number One tier institution. Texas State offers 200 degree-programs and 48% of students are first generation mostly from Texas. In addition, 40% of the students are Hispanic. He also explained the interest of the university to attract international students and the strategy to specialize in areas that have demand from the industrial sector.
Suresh Pillai, Director of the National Center for Electron Beam Research at the University of Texas made a presentation on the Center for Electron Beam, a technology that serves to sterilize pharmaceutical industries and foods, especially those that are imported to the United States. The technology, developed at Texas A&M is deployed in 11 Asian/Oceania countries, 11 countries in Europe, four in Latin America, two countries in Arica, the United States and Canada. The technology is applicable to human & animals. Food, novel industrial agro & food products and the environment. The Center is beginning to promote the technology in the Americas. There are four plants in Mexico.
Ambassador Michael Pelletier, former Ambassador of the United States to Madagascar, Founding Director of the Institute for Global Engagement of the University of Houston made a presentation on the goals of the new institute and UH’s efforts to solidify its position as an international institution. A large presence of international students at the university will make the core nucleus of the effort. Amb. Pelletier’s strategy is to have the global engagement of the University permeate all of the faculties in order to prepare the student body to live in a global environment.
Ron Epperson, Director, Strategic Industry Partnerships of Texas State University made a presentation on the profile of Texas State as one of the largest universities in the state of Texas that as a #2 tier university is making progress to be designated a Number One tier institution. Texas State offers 200 degree-programs and 48% of students are first generation mostly from Texas. In addition, 40% of the students are Hispanic. He also explained the interest of the university to attract international students and the strategy to specialize in areas that have demand from the industrial sector.
Suresh Pillai, Director of the National Center for Electron Beam Research at the University of Texas made a presentation on the Center for Electron Beam, a technology that serves to sterilize pharmaceutical industries and foods, especially those that are imported to the United States. The technology, developed at Texas A&M is deployed in 11 Asian/Oceania countries, 11 countries in Europe, four in Latin America, two countries in Arica, the United States and Canada. The technology is applicable to human & animals. Food, novel industrial agro & food products and the environment. The Center is beginning to promote the technology in the Americas. There are four plants in Mexico.
Panel:
The panel centered mostly on education standards, access to education, cost of education, opportunity for global engagement and placement of students in environments that would allow them to strengthen their knowledge and experience. Interest was shown in the applicability of the Electron Bean plant, which has an estimated cost of $9 million without including the facilities. The panel was moderated by Juan Sosa. |
CONVERSATION BETWEEN BILL FULTON AND SUSAN DAVENPORT
"THE TEXAS TRIANGLE"
Bill Fulton is the Director of the Kinder Institute for Urban Research of Rice University and co-author of the book “The Texas Triangle”. Susan Davenport is Senior Vice President for Economic Development at the Greater Houston Partnership. The conversation revolved around the book “The Texas Triangle” that compares the triangle made up of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex at the Northern part of the State, the Central/Southern part of Austin-San Antonio and the Eastern part of Houston, an area of nineteen million people distributed among thirty-five counties with a GDP of $1.3 Trillion in 2019, representing 6.3% of the economy of the United States and 70% of the Texas economy which makes it one of the eight mega centers in the Unites States. Moreover, if the Triangle was a country, its economic power would make it the 15th largest economy.
Different aspects of the Mega Centers were covered including the growth of the region, the strong presence of Latinos, the fact that all are in one state which makes regulation easier than if they were in different states, the complementary economies of the cities, its vast infrastructure, and the need to improve educational standards among others. Contrary to common wisdom, the cowboy stereotype is no longer a reality in Texas, a state with 85% urban population.
Texas is considered pro-business state with less regulation than other mega centers and no personal income tax. The Triangle has 10% of all the Fortune 500 corporations, most of them in the Metroplex of Dallas/Fort Worth and the Houston region.
In the complementary function of the regions inside the triangle it was mentioned that the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex leans to the Northeast with business and finance, Fort Worth to the West heavy in livestock and agriculture, Austin in the center leans to the West Coast and technology, San Antonio in the south to Mexico and Latin America while Houston, thanks to the Port of Houston, the airports and the manufacturing for exports looks more to the outside world.
Different aspects of the Mega Centers were covered including the growth of the region, the strong presence of Latinos, the fact that all are in one state which makes regulation easier than if they were in different states, the complementary economies of the cities, its vast infrastructure, and the need to improve educational standards among others. Contrary to common wisdom, the cowboy stereotype is no longer a reality in Texas, a state with 85% urban population.
Texas is considered pro-business state with less regulation than other mega centers and no personal income tax. The Triangle has 10% of all the Fortune 500 corporations, most of them in the Metroplex of Dallas/Fort Worth and the Houston region.
In the complementary function of the regions inside the triangle it was mentioned that the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex leans to the Northeast with business and finance, Fort Worth to the West heavy in livestock and agriculture, Austin in the center leans to the West Coast and technology, San Antonio in the south to Mexico and Latin America while Houston, thanks to the Port of Houston, the airports and the manufacturing for exports looks more to the outside world.
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
This segment covered institutions that are part of GCI’s strategic partners in areas related to international affairs such as the World Affairs Council of Greater Washington, the International Department of the Greater Houston Partnership and the office of Trade & International Affairs of the City of Houston.
Sandija Bayot, Director of Development for World Affairs Council of Greater Houston talked about the programs of the organization in strengthening relationships with foreign countries. Programs of the council were described and also the international visits that are arranged and allow Houstonians to get to know other cities and countries, developing relationships, strengthening the Houston Region with the external world and advancing the Houston Region agenda.
John Cypher, Vice president for International Investment & Trade of GHP summarized the activities of GHP in the international arena highlighting the presence of multinational companies and its impact in investments in the Houston region which has been part of the economic development of the region. Cypher also described the structure of GHP to deal globally. GHP also organizes trade missions for the Mayor of Houston and on their own. In the last few years the Americas has been one of its primary destination with trade missions to Mexico, Panama, Colombia, Brazil, Argentina, Chile and Perú.
Christopher Olson, Director of Trade and International Affairs for the city of Houston closed by explaining the role of the department in promoting Houston internationally and the tools used for the purpose. Olson’s responsibilities cover activities in commerce and diplomacy. Olson emphasized the relationship with the Consular Corps of Houston, the publication of a newsletter, and welcoming delegations from other countries. He also gave a description of the type of manpower needed in his department.
Ambassador Sosa closed the conference thanking everybody for their active participation and recognizing the contributions of sponsors, speakers and the two hosts Ibero America Consular Group and Greater Houston Partnership. He announced that for 2022 the branding of the conference was being changed to “Texas: Gateway of the Americas” and three conferences would be held at: the “Metroplex Region”, “San Antonio Region” and “Houston Region”
Sandija Bayot, Director of Development for World Affairs Council of Greater Houston talked about the programs of the organization in strengthening relationships with foreign countries. Programs of the council were described and also the international visits that are arranged and allow Houstonians to get to know other cities and countries, developing relationships, strengthening the Houston Region with the external world and advancing the Houston Region agenda.
John Cypher, Vice president for International Investment & Trade of GHP summarized the activities of GHP in the international arena highlighting the presence of multinational companies and its impact in investments in the Houston region which has been part of the economic development of the region. Cypher also described the structure of GHP to deal globally. GHP also organizes trade missions for the Mayor of Houston and on their own. In the last few years the Americas has been one of its primary destination with trade missions to Mexico, Panama, Colombia, Brazil, Argentina, Chile and Perú.
Christopher Olson, Director of Trade and International Affairs for the city of Houston closed by explaining the role of the department in promoting Houston internationally and the tools used for the purpose. Olson’s responsibilities cover activities in commerce and diplomacy. Olson emphasized the relationship with the Consular Corps of Houston, the publication of a newsletter, and welcoming delegations from other countries. He also gave a description of the type of manpower needed in his department.
Ambassador Sosa closed the conference thanking everybody for their active participation and recognizing the contributions of sponsors, speakers and the two hosts Ibero America Consular Group and Greater Houston Partnership. He announced that for 2022 the branding of the conference was being changed to “Texas: Gateway of the Americas” and three conferences would be held at: the “Metroplex Region”, “San Antonio Region” and “Houston Region”
Partial look at the participants
The Region
The Houston region is one of the most important metropolitan regions in the United States, ranking sixth in GDP and #1 in exports. In addition, is considered the most diverse metropolitan region in the country, with strong presence of Hispanics (38%), White (36%), Blacks (17%), and Asians (8%). It consists of nine counties: Austin, Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Liberty, Montgomery and Waller.
There are nineteen Spanish & Portuguese speaking countries in the Americas totaling 630 million people. Their trade with the United States in 2019 the last full year before the pandemic reached $896 billion a year, more than 20% of total U.S. trade.
This trade is important for the economy of the United States and the Americas, both in exports and imports. Houston is one of the most important metropolitan regions in trade with the Americas together with New York and Miami, led by the Port of Houston, the largest port in the U.S. in tonnage. Besides having a large attractive market with a high proficiency of Spanish-speaking population, the Houston Region is positioned to become the "Gateway of the Americas" for the central region of the United States, deeply connected to Houston and Texas by an impressive infrastructure of roads and railroads.
The Airport System of Houston is another asset of the region. With Houston Bush Intercontinental having direct flights to most capitals in the Americas, supported by United Airlines' headquarters for Latin America in Houston and the marketing agreement with COPA Airlines in Panama, Houston enjoys an excellent connectivity with countries and cities of the Americas, especially with Mexico with more than forty destinations. The new international role of Hobby Airport with Southwest Airlines leading the way, adds to the connectivity of Houston with the Americas.
Another important factor in favor of Houston is its leadership in several economic sectors that are also important to the Americas, making it an attractive city and region to do business. The conference is designed to highlight these opportunities, led by the active participation of GHP and the Ibero America Consular Group.. GCI and GHP, with this conference, are providing a leadership role that is destined to bring about positive results.
This trade is important for the economy of the United States and the Americas, both in exports and imports. Houston is one of the most important metropolitan regions in trade with the Americas together with New York and Miami, led by the Port of Houston, the largest port in the U.S. in tonnage. Besides having a large attractive market with a high proficiency of Spanish-speaking population, the Houston Region is positioned to become the "Gateway of the Americas" for the central region of the United States, deeply connected to Houston and Texas by an impressive infrastructure of roads and railroads.
The Airport System of Houston is another asset of the region. With Houston Bush Intercontinental having direct flights to most capitals in the Americas, supported by United Airlines' headquarters for Latin America in Houston and the marketing agreement with COPA Airlines in Panama, Houston enjoys an excellent connectivity with countries and cities of the Americas, especially with Mexico with more than forty destinations. The new international role of Hobby Airport with Southwest Airlines leading the way, adds to the connectivity of Houston with the Americas.
Another important factor in favor of Houston is its leadership in several economic sectors that are also important to the Americas, making it an attractive city and region to do business. The conference is designed to highlight these opportunities, led by the active participation of GHP and the Ibero America Consular Group.. GCI and GHP, with this conference, are providing a leadership role that is destined to bring about positive results.
The Global Region - Highlights
Houston’s status as the most global Region/City in the United States based on the metric of GDP vs exports, is reflected in the strong international representation in the city:
- More than 90 consulates (third in the nation), nineteen of them from Ibero America countries
- 30+ bi-national chambers of commerce
- 19 foreign banks from nine nations
- 2500+ Houston manufacturing firms engaged in global trade
- 1700+ Houston firms report foreign ownership
- 5000+ Houston companies doing business abroad
- Forty-one Houston firms operate 119 locations in Mexico
- Fifty-one Houston firms operate 128 subsidiaries in Brazil
- One of every four Houstonians (1.6 million) were born outside of the United States
- 38% of the population is of Latin origin
Strengths of the Houston Region
- The Houston region ranks fourth in population
- The Houston region ranks seventh as the largest metro economy
- The Port of Houston is ranked first in the U.S. in tonnage
- The Port of Houston is #6 nationally in container handling and #1 in the Gulf
- The Houston Airport System (HAS) has two ranked international airports
- The Houston Airport System is sixth in the nation in passengers
- Houston has 185 non-stop destinations to 37 countries.
- Houston metro has led the nation in exports nine of the last ten years
- 500+ foreign-owned firms have investments in Houston over the last ten years
- The Houston region is the #1 energy center in the world
- The Houston region has the #1 medical center in the world
- The Houston region is the #1 manufacturing center of the United States