Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
The Pharr International Bridge, located at the Texas-Mexico border, is key in facilitating trade between the two nations. On October 20, 2023, the bridge was the center of a significant event: TRADE Talks Presents Cross Check. This event brought together key industry stakeholders to discuss the challenges and opportunities in international trade and logistics. In this article, we will dig into the insightful discussions and introductions made by the speakers and panelists during this event.
The event began with a warm welcome and an introduction of Jonathan Flores, the City Manager of the City of Pharr “On behalf of Mayor Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez and the City Commission, he highlighted the importance of the event, coinciding with the ten-year anniversary of the Start of the Produce Season. He emphasized the bridge’s critical role in trade and the need for collaboration to ensure its success. Flores underlined the city’s commitment to understanding and addressing the challenges faced by stakeholders, reinforcing the importance of events like Trade Talks Cross Check.
Edgar Delgadillo, chairman of the Bridge board presence was to welcome everyone and spoke about the vision of creating a trade cluster at the Pharr International Bridge to benefit various industries. He mentioned the challenges of importers and exporters dealing with customs and logistics. Edgar emphasized the importance of collaboration and information sharing among industry players to address these challenges effectively.
He also introduced a QR code for a survey, encouraging attendees to participate in the exchange of valuable insights.
Luis Bazán, CPM, Bridge Director at the City of Pharr, while unable to attend in person due to commitments at the Produce Marketing Association event in California, Bazan highlighted the value-added services provided by the Pharr International Bridge and extended a warm welcome to all participants.
Luis Bazan left a video message reiterating the significance of TRADE Talks Cross Check. He stressed the need for discussions and debates to make sense of today’s vast trade-related information. Bazan introduced the diverse panel lineup, representing transportation, customs brokerage, manufacturing, and produce warehousing, all vital aspects of international trade.
Walter Rico, representing LG Electronics, shared insights into the manufacturing sector. He highlighted LG Electronics’ significant presence in the U.S. market and the importance of certifications and programs that expedite border crossings. LG Electronics plays a crucial role in manufacturing, making the Pharr International Bridge a key component of their operations.
Everardo Sustaita Moreno, an experienced Mexican customs broker, shared his background and extensive knowledge of international trade. With years of experience in the industry, Sustaita highlighted the challenges faced by importers and exporters and the importance of customs brokerage in streamlining processes. He expressed a passion for the field and emphasized its critical role in trade.
Ilse Fernández, the Executive Director of Grupo TCA Logistics, discussed the company’s role in the comprehensive supply chain. TCA Logistics covers a wide range of logistics services, from transportation to distribution, and operates on both sides of the border. Their dedication to technology, people, and processes underscores their commitment to enhancing the logistics industry.
Fabián Contreras, CEO of Grupo Codysur, shared the company’s evolution from transportation to a multifaceted logistics service provider. Grupo Codysur focuses on understanding client’s needs and collaborating with all stakeholders to simplify complex supply chain operations. Operations in Mexico and the United States contribute significantly to the efficient flow of goods across borders.
The Pharr International Bridge’s Trade Talks Cross Check event brought together industry experts and stakeholders to discuss the challenges and opportunities in international trade and logistics. The insights shared by the speakers and panelists highlighted the bridge’s critical role in connecting Mexico and the United States for the benefit of diverse industries. Collaboration, innovation, and information sharing emerged as crucial themes during this insightful event, showcasing the commitment of all participants to sustaining and enhancing the success of the Pharr International Bridge and the broader international trade community.
