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Mexican consul ready to facilitate
Based in Little Rock, looking to Memphis

By Daniel Connolly
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September 9, 2006

LITTLE ROCK -- Andres Chao says he can help open doors for Memphis firms that want to do business in Mexico, America's second-largest trading partner.

"I think there is a lot of opportunity for both countries to try to make business together," he said.

Chao, 41, a career diplomat for the Mexican government, moved from New York in late July to launch Mexico's consulate in Little Rock. For now, Chao and three associates are using temporary office space pending the final lease and renovation of an office. When the consulate opens in October or November, it will be Mexico's first permanent representation in the region.

The Arkansas consulate, Mexico's 47th in North America, reflects the growing Mexican immigrant population in the South. Little Rock was chosen not because of its own Mexican population, but because it's a central location for immigrants from throughout the region who need passports, legal aid and other services.

Supporters also say the consulate, would benefit Americans. Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee pushed hard for the consulate to locate in Little Rock, saying it would help area businesses strike international deals.

Memphis is currently in the district of the Mexican consulate in Atlanta, nearly 400 miles away. By contrast, about 140 miles separate Memphis and Little Rock.

But there could be a snag for Memphis businesses: The Mexican government hasn't yet decided whether to include Memphis in the new consulate's coverage area. However, Chao said a decision should come in the next few weeks, and he's ready to hear from Memphis businesses despite the uncertainty.

"During this time, I can help with the information the businessman in Memphis needs from the consulate," he said.

There's likely to be plenty of interest. Tennessee firms exported $1.85 billion worth of goods to Mexico last year, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce.

Having a Mexican consulate nearby would be helpful, said Carey Treadwell, director of global business for Memphis-based Mallory Alexander International Logistics, which specializes in international trade.

Taking trucks into Mexico is often difficult because companies are often not authorized to operate on both sides of the border, he said, which means unloading, storing and reloading cargo. Though Mallory Alexander has offices in Mexico, having a consular office in Little Rock could help smooth those bumps, he said.

"Also, I think the regional impact on Memphis and the larger Mid-South will benefit from an increased awareness and a better understanding of any changes that may be in store with trade with Mexico and that regulatory environment," he said.

Chao said consular officials also could help American firms find partner companies in Mexico.

For instance, Chao said he could match an entrepreneur who wanted to sell jerseys with logos of Mexican soccer teams to immigrants in the United States with the best jersey maker in Mexico.

The consulate could even make an appointment with the Mexican company, he said.

"Maybe if it's necessary I can travel over there, working together like a team, to do that kind of business," he said.

-- Daniel Connolly: 529-5296