Technology Centers
Eight regions could get a direct line to Ohio trade planners
The new commission would be the place for regional partnerships on commerce, research and economic support. It also could help finance trips and other efforts through a dedicated state fund.
A proposed Ohio International Trade Commission would give the state a formal structure for trade links with up to eight regions. The commission would handle exchanges, research agreements and related projects, with annual reports and fundraising authority.
- Creates a new Ohio International Trade Commission
- Lets the commission work with up to eight regions
- Covers trade, investment, research and exchange programs
- Includes business, academic and state voices
- Requires annual reports and early region designations
Ohio would create a new commission to manage trade relationships with up to eight designated regions, turning a general interest in global commerce into a standing state body. The Ohio International Trade Commission would be tasked with advancing multilateral trade and investment, business and academic exchanges, and mutual economic support and infrastructure investment.
Its reach would go beyond commerce in the narrow sense. The commission would also promote joint research agreements on issues of mutual interest, particularly electronic and cyber warfare capabilities, and could pursue the creation of an international trade center and technology centers linking academic and business interests.
The work behind the name
The proposal would make the commission a real operating body, not just a ceremonial board. It could take up other issues members decide matter, and it would issue annual reports on its activities and recommendations.
The commission would include lawmakers, regional representatives and nonvoting members from the Ohio Chamber of Commerce and state departments with international trade duties. It would also meet around the state, and it would have to designate its first eight regions within 90 days after the new section takes effect.