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available to them to assist with international trade. A basic public information program featuring the many existing state and federal programs that are already exist for this purpose could be an important first step. Second. in addition to providing general information about foreign trade. the City could establish a targeted program for providing technical assistance to interested companies. Areas where companies most frequently require such assistance include: regulatory/legal issues: identifving appropriate overseas market opportunities and/or appropriate import opportunities: raising capital to support business expansion associated with import/export activities. including establishing letters of credit or other mechanism for paving or being paid by overseas companies; etc. The City could assemble of team of experts including a banker. manufacturer agent. freight forwarder. and a customers broker. This group could assist business representatives determine where and how to source products. how to get the products into the U.S., how to navigate the legal and regulatory framework. and - to handle payment and transfer of funds. Third. the City could establish a data base to track which companies are engaging in foreign trade activities. Companies of the database would then receive information on a regular basis on foreign trade issues. and could be surveyed periodically to determine what additional services the City could provide to assist them in expanding their overseas business activities. Roles and Responsibilities. Economic Development staff could take the lead in coordinating the public information dissemination and technical assistance activities in conjunction with the San Leandro Chamber of Commerce. the Alameda County Economic Development Advisory Board (EDAB). and the Greater Oakland International Trade Commission. Costs and Sources of Funding. The costs incurred by this action would present a negligible burden to the Ciry. Priority: HIGH Action 1.6: Investigate Creating a Foreign Trade Zone in San Leandro. As foreign trade becomes an increasingl\ important part of the regional economy. San Leandro may determine that there would be benefits to the Cite from establishing a foreign trade zone. This zone would benefit local businesses. by giving them access to the tax benefits offered by a foreign trade zone. as well as providing an inducement to businesses not currently located in San Leandro to consider moving to the Cit\. 2; 2.3