An expo showcasing the latest events, fresh ideas, and global strategies.

Celebrate Cuba Reception

             

Enjoy mojitos and hors d'oeuvres while listening to live Cuban music poolside on the rooftop deck.  Network, watch a master craftsman roll Cuban cigars, and absorb that distinctly Cuban energy.

Cuba/US Relations - Changes in the last year

As expected, President Obama changed U.S. policy toward Cuba, which is now showing a willingness to engage the United States.  The business community in particular anticipates even greater changes to come.  Panelists will help interpret recent events and discuss what’s expected in the coming year.

Doing Business with Cuba

This was last year’s most popular session.  Our discussion will focus on practical advice on making contacts and doing business.  What’s the Cuban government looking for in trading partners?  Panelists include consultants who have helped companies secure contracts, as well as executives who have an ongoing business relationship with Cuba.

Crossfire Debate on Embargo Changes

For the U.S., the debate has shifted from whether or not to embargo Cuba to how best to dismantle the trade prohibitions and how far to go in making policy changes.  Those favoring the dismantling of the embargo claim that, after 50 years, it represents failed Cold War policy that mainly hurts average Cubans.  Those who favor limited changes in return for Cuban concessions say the government continues to violate human rights and shows no movement toward becoming more democratic.  Both sides of last year’s Crossfire Debate correctly predicted issues that later arose, making this a very worthwhile session.

Agriculture / Telecommunications / Energy

Each year, the U.S. sells hundreds of millions of dollars of agricultural products to Cuba.  Meanwhile, U.S. energy companies are looking at the possibilities of gas and oil exploration projects off Cuba’s shores.  Also, Obama has relaxed telecommunications rules to allow U.S. companies to provide cell phone roaming and satellite television service in Cuba.  Experts from each of these three fields will give an overview of current and expected opportunities.

Cuban Tourism Industry

In February, Congress is expected to vote on a couple of acts (H.R. 874 and S. 428) that would permit travel to Cuba by all Americans.  More than one million American tourists are predicted to visit the island in the first year, should the legislation pass.  How can U.S. companies position themselves to participate in this new market?  Panelists will also discuss how travel-related companies, based in the U.S. and elsewhere, currently manage relations with Cuba.

Investing in Cuba's Future

A number of funds have formed to invest in Cuba.  In fact, the capital waiting to be deployed threatens to outstrip existing opportunities.  Panelists will discuss Cuba’s perspective on outside investors, as well as which investment vehicles now exist, and which are being developed.  They will also explore potential opportunities.
 

Cuban Real Estate

Several real estate projects by international developers are currently being discussed and marketed.  We’ll examine past real estate projects and Cuba’s appetite for allowing new ones.  We’ll also look at the infrastructure that developers must deal with, regarding legal ownership and property transfers.

Wrap Up Session

Which themes are most important for understanding the future of Cuba?  How can you put the ideas explored in this conference to practical use?  Our wrap-up will pull everything together.  We'll review what we expect to have the greatest impact on the business future of an island nation that stands on the brink of a historical transition.

Q&A

Final Comments

End of Sessions

Biscayne Bay Brunch Cruise

9:30 AM Boarding starts.                                                            
10:00 AM (sharp) Boat leaves dock.
1:00 PM Return to dock.

Congressman (TBD) will give a keynote speech while you enjoy mimosas and brunch. Enjoy strolling the decks of the Venetian Lady as we cruise around beautiful Biscayne Bay!

Guests Invited:  While space permits, you may purchase tickets for guests.  Each ticket must be bought separately so we can add each guest to our registry.

Overview of Cuba

Cuba should be a jewel of the Caribbean, as it is a large island blessed with natural resources and hard-working people.  We look beyond the mystique and myths to identify challenges, opportunities, and most importantly future influences.