With international trade, tariffs, and global supply chains continuing to evolve, businesses across Orange County are seeking new strategies to remain competitive. One of the most powerful—and often underutilized—tools is the U.S. Foreign-Trade Zone (FTZ) program.
International trade and Foreign-Trade Zone expert David Harlow will present "Foreign-Trade Zones: A Competitive Advantage for Business and Economic Growth" during the Greater Irvine Chamber's Business Advocacy Speakers Series on Thursday, Aug. 20, from 8:45 to 10:30 a.m. at the Greater Irvine Chamber, 36 Executive Park, Suite 100, Irvine.
A Licensed U.S. Customs Broker with more than 20 years of experience, Harlow will discuss how Foreign-Trade Zones help businesses reduce costs, improve supply chain efficiency, attract investment, strengthen manufacturing and distribution operations, and enhance global competitiveness. He will also explore how cities and economic development organizations can leverage FTZs to attract and retain businesses, encourage investment, and support long-term economic growth.
Harlow is President of ITC-Diligence International, a Southern California-based international trade consulting and customs brokerage firm specializing in Foreign-Trade Zones, customs compliance, and global supply chain solutions that help importers, exporters, manufacturers, distributors, and public agencies compete more effectively in the global marketplace.
He currently serves as President of the Los Angeles Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders Association, an advocate of the National Association of Foreign-Trade Zones (NAFTZ), an advisory Board Member of the Global Chamber, and Chairman of the District Export Council of Southern California.
The presentation will conclude with an interactive question-and-answer session with Harlow, followed by legislative and agency updates from elected officials' offices and government partners.
The Greater Irvine Chamber's Business Advocacy Speakers Series is a forum where members gain practical, executive-level insights into the public policy, economic, and business issues that directly affect business growth, competitiveness, and long-term success. Featuring industry leaders, policymakers, and subject matter experts, the series helps businesses stay informed, anticipate change, and make better strategic decisions in today's evolving business environment.
The Business Advocacy Speakers Series is provided at no cost and is exclusively available to members and invited guests of the Greater Irvine Chamber and its partnering chambers and business organizations with advance registration.
Schedule
- 8:45–9:15 a.m. – Check-in, networking, and breakfast bites
- 9:15–10:30 a.m. – Program and Q&A, updates from the offices of elected officials and local agencies
