Southeast Asia is one of the world’s fastest-growing regions, offering significant opportunities for U.S. manufacturers. As global supply chains diversify and consumer markets expand, Malaysia and Vietnam have emerged as attractive destinations for U.S. products. This webinar provides an overview of the trade environment in ASEAN and a practical introduction to exporting into two of the region’s most dynamic markets.  Participants will gain actionable insights into navigating the region, understanding local business environments, and resources to help leverage trade opportunities.

TOPICS OF DISCUSSION: 

• Market Overview: Economic trends in ASEAN, key industries and growth sectors in Malaysia and Vietnam 
• Trade Opportunities: Opportunities and high-potential sectors for U.S. manufacturers 
• Regulatory Landscape: Import, tariff, legal and compliance considerations
• Market Entry Strategies: Distribution channels, partnerships, managing risk and localization best practices 
• Illinois Office of Trade and Investment: Services, Illinois trade missions update and ISTEP funding support

Our Speakers:

Kyle Freeman, Partner, Dezan Shira & Associates.

Kyle leads the firm’s North American client services desk in Asia. He advises clients on market entry strategy, corporate structuring and establishment, and related tax and legal issues concerning investment in China, Hong Kong, and Southeast Asia.

Prior to joining Dezan Shira & Associates, Kyle worked in government relations and China trade policy for various public and private organizations. His work included assisting in high-level, US-China bilateral trade dialogues and organizing public-private cooperation programs to promote US and foreign investment in China.

Kyle has a master’s degree in economics and international trade from the University of International Business and Economics, in Beijing, and dual bachelor’s degrees in economics and global affairs from George Mason University, in Washington D.C. He has also been a visiting fellow at the University of Oxford and the Beijing Language Culture University.

Jong Hyoung (Kevin) Kim, Asia-Pacific Trade Specialist 

Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity, Office of Trade and Investment

Kevin provides professional and tailored guidance to help Illinois small business exporters start and grow their international business and operations. Previously, he served as an international trade specialist at the Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and the International Trade Center at the College of Lake County. He also worked at a multinational corporation, specializing in export/import, logistics, sales, marketing, and material management, and has a strong background in global trade and supply chain management. Kevin continues to assist Illinois businesses in entering and expanding within the Asia-Pacific markets, drawing on a rich network of trade resources and partnerships. He holds an MBA from Pfeiffer University in North Carolina and is a Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP).

This workshop is co-sponsored by: The Joseph Center, Dezan Shira & Associates, and Illinois Department of Commerce.