In April, United Parcel Service (UPS) introduced its first package flights to China from the company's new Ontario International Airport facilities. UPS is the first U.S. cargo carrier to be awarded the route into Chinese mainland. "This is the first time ever that a U.S. cargo carrier will fly directly from the U.S. to China," says Jim Kelly, CEO of UPS. "We believe this designation is a sign of the growing importance of global trade and our place in the new global marketplace."
      UPS, like many companies, is looking at the Golden State as the ideal location for sites to launch new trade opportunities into Asia, and specifically China. UPS opened their $42 million expanded facility in Ontario earlier this year. The company expects its new trade to China to have significant economic impact. A study by Professor David G. Smith of the University of Virginia estimates the impact of UPS' new service to China to be approximately $5 billion in new business output in the first year of service.
      "International trade has become a cornerstone of California's economy," says Lon S. Hatamiya, Secretary of the California Technology, Trade and Commerce Agency.
      California Trade officials recognize the vital part export trade plays in the Golden State's economy. The state established in May 2001 the Rural Export Center. The Center will aide California companies in promoting their goods and services to international markets, with a particular emphasis on agricultural products and technologies.