In a bid to increase Guam’s presence among foreign investors, Gov. Lourdes A. Leon Guerrero attended the 2023 SelectUSA Investment Summit.
“SelectUSA is one of the biggest national stages to attract foreign investors, and Guam’s participation ensures we’re top of mind for international trade. Already we’re seeing increased interest evidenced by the over 60 investors from around the globe who visited Guam’s booth to meet and speak with me directly about incentives, workforce pool, and other requirements to start a business here,” the governor said. “These investors will be invited to participate in a Select Guam USA Symposium, which will be held virtually on August 10 and 11, 2023. We look forward to opportunities to diversify our economy, grow and upskill our workforce, and create a stronger, more resilient economy post-pandemic.”
The governor was invited by Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo to the event, which was held in Maryland and sponsored by the U.S. Department of Commerce. According to a press release from the governor’s office, the Summit plays a vital role in attracting and facilitating foreign business investments throughout the nation and territories. This year’s event recorded the highest attendance in history with over 4,800 participants.
The governor participated in panels on Infrastructure Investments and Repairing the Global Supply Chain and Investing in the territories. She said Guam serves as a “bridge between Asia and the United States” and the ongoing military buildup. She also addressed its associated growth, including the need for affordable housing, aquaculture development, agriculture, transshipment, and agri-tech. Her panel included Puerto Rico’s Gov. Pedro Pierluisi, Delaware’s Gov. John Carney, and Oklahoma’s Gov. Kevin Stitt. Former New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu moderated. mbj