For three decades, the Hermes Expo has served as a great resource for Greek and southeastern European companies seeking to grow and prosper in the U.S. market. Thanks in part to the efforts of groups like yours, Greek – United States trade has steadily increased. During the first eight months of 2021 (January- August), compared to the same period last year, trade increased from $932 million to $985 million. Imports from Greece to the United States have also increased during the same time period from $859 million to $1.1 billion.
Ties between the United States and Greece have never been stronger, and we welcome the contributions that the Hermes Expo has made in support of the Greek diaspora and the U.S.- Greece relationship. Over 30 years, it has developed into a modern American marketplace for Greek trade, tourism, and investment opportunities via gastronomy.
This year’s Hermes Expo takes place during a very special year during which Greece is celebrating its bicentennial. Throughout the year, we have joined Greeks around the world in commemorating the birth of the modern Greek state. To honor this important milestone, the U.S. Mission to Greece launched a campaign, “USA & Greece: Celebrating 200 Years of Friendship,” that highlights the role of American Philhellenes in the Greek Revolution and the bonds of mutual respect and shared values that unite our peoples.
As 1 frequently say to American companies, there is no better time to invest in Greece than now. Through the U.S.-Greece Strategic Dialogue, held this year in Washington, DC on October 14, we continue to advocate for growing the trade and investment relationship that benefits the economies of both of our countries.
Please accept my best wishes for a successful 2021 Hermes Expo and rny congratulations to the distinguished recipients of this year’s Hermes Expo Awards.
