From: Angus King <governor@state.me.us>

Subject: Ttrip to Brazil

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Here are the answers to your questions. More information will follow

through the postal mail. Again, thanks for writing and keep up the great

work!

1. What business arrangements were you able to make for Maine?

> We were able to set up one on one business appointments and joint venture

networking events with businesses in Maine and Brazil.

>2. Does Maine already export to Brazil?

>Yes, Brazil is Maineís 30th largest export market with over $6 million in

>exported goods in 1996.

>3. What products does the US import from Brazil?

>Leather, rubber, shoes, clothes, fish, fruits & nuts, wood, chemicals, iron

>& steel, coffee & tea, species, sugar, vegetables

>4. What business things did you discuss when you were there?

> How to connect Brazilian and Maine businesses and what were the best

prospects for sales.

>5. Why do you think that NAFTA is good for Maine and good for the country? (we think you do, that is)

> A reduction in trade barriers increases trade, as illustrated by export

statistics before and after NAFTA for Mexico and Canada.

6. Weíre studying about the inter-dependence between countries of the world so we would love any thoughts that you have on this topic.

> Only 5% of the worldís population resides in the United States, leaving

>95% of untapped business potential for US businesses. We also rely on

>other countries to supply us with fresh fruits and vegetables in the

>winter, and many other raw materials that we manufacture into goods, like

>leather for shoes and rubber for tires. We exist in one world, and each

different part has something unique and sometimes necessary to offer to

make life more enjoyable, comfortable, healthy or productive for the rest

of the world.

>

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