The U.S. Department of Commerce is hosting a series of seminars around the country aimed at providing American businesses with strategies for protecting and enforcing a company’s intellectual property rights (IPR) when exporting to foreign markets and advice for avoiding common pitfalls. Participants will have the chance to ask export questions related to patents, trade secrets, trademarks, copyrights and domain names. At the conclusion of each Road Show, participants can take advantage of one-on-one consultations with intellectual property experts to get targeted advice.  

For more information on a specific session, click on the links below to register and/or e-mail the contact person.   

SEMA also provides its members with general information about patents, trademarks and copyright through material posted on the website www.sema.org/IPR. For issues beyond protecting IPR, SEMA recommends reading the "Sourcing" article posted on the website. Questions? Contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.  


Arlington, Virginia

April 18, 2013
Contact: Judy.Kornfeld@trade.gov

Cincinnati
April 23, 2013

Register
 here
Contact: Kara.Sweeney@trade.gov

Austin, Texas
April 30, 2013

Contact: Karen.Parker@trade.gov

Registration has not yet opened for the following sessions. SEMA will publicize contact information as soon as it is available.

New York
May 6, 2013

New Orleans
May 14, 2013

Houston
May 16, 2013

Boston
May 21, 2013

San Jose, California (Silicon Valley)

May 30, 2013

Portland, Oregon
June 20, 2013

Newport News, Virginia

June 24, 2013

Los Angeles

June 25, 2013

San Diego

June 27, 2013

Minneapolis

September 12, 2013

Milwaukee
September 17, 2013

Madison, Wisconsin
September 18, 2013

Raleigh, North Carolina
TBD

Baltimore

TBD

By Linda Spencer

	The ’13 Ford Ranger T6 4x4 double cab is powered by a 2.5L five-speed gasoline engine. SEMA, in partnership with the United States Department of Commerce, purchased the vehicle in the Middle East. It was designed in Australia and assembled in South Africa.

SEMA-member manufacturers are invited to measure the ’13 Ford Ranger T6—a global one-ton pickup that is popular worldwide but not sold in the United States or Canada. SEMA purchased the vehicle in a partnership with the United States government to provide American companies difficult-to-access vehicles so they can create export-ready products.

The Ranger, which was selected by a panel of automotive press and experts, won the 2013 International Pickup Award, beating out the Isuzu D-Max and Volkswagen Amarok, among other vehicles in the category. Members can choose one of two Measuring Sessions to be held Wednesday, April 17, at SEMA's Diamond Bar, California, headquarters and Tuesday, May 14, at Dearborn, Michigan-based Link Engineering. There is no charge to participate.

Register now to attend one of the Measuring Sessions. 

Initial sales figures are in for 2012. Of those countries reporting their data, IHS Global Insight reports South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Argentina, Brazil and Thailand are in the top five in terms of sales.

Country		CY 2012		Estimate 2013
South Africa		15,804		17,397
Saudi Arabia		13,503		12,646
Argentina		12,356		18,146
Brazil		8,388		19,892
Thailand		6,632		7,367
United Arab Emirates		4,028		4,486
Indonesia		3,815		4,894
United Kingdom		2,818		2,697
New Zealand		2,815		2,677
Germany		2,183		2,178
Malaysia		1,939		4,229
Kuwait		1,680		1,783
Oman		1,295		1,518
France		1,082		1,595
Chile		1,003		2,971
Mexico		1,001		16,082

Source: SEMA calculations from IHS Global Insight data.

By Linda Spencer

	The ’13 Ford Ranger T6 4x4 double cab is powered by a 2.5L five-speed gasoline engine. SEMA, in partnership with the United States Department of Commerce, purchased the vehicle in the Middle East. It was designed in Australia and assembled in South Africa.

SEMA-member manufacturers are invited to measure the ’13 Ford Ranger T6—a global one-ton pickup that is popular worldwide but not sold in the United States or Canada. SEMA purchased the vehicle in a partnership with the United States government to provide American companies difficult-to-access vehicles so they can create export-ready products.

The Ranger, which was selected by a panel of automotive press and experts, won the 2013 International Pickup Award, beating out the Isuzu D-Max and Volkswagen Amarok, among other vehicles in the category. Members can choose one of two Measuring Sessions to be held Wednesday, April 17, at SEMA's Diamond Bar, California, headquarters and Tuesday, May 14, at Dearborn, Michigan-based Link Engineering. There is no charge to participate.

Register now to attend one of the Measuring Sessions. 

Initial sales figures are in for 2012. Of those countries reporting their data, IHS Global Insight reports South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Argentina, Brazil and Thailand are in the top five in terms of sales.

Country		CY 2012		Estimate 2013
South Africa		15,804		17,397
Saudi Arabia		13,503		12,646
Argentina		12,356		18,146
Brazil		8,388		19,892
Thailand		6,632		7,367
United Arab Emirates		4,028		4,486
Indonesia		3,815		4,894
United Kingdom		2,818		2,697
New Zealand		2,815		2,677
Germany		2,183		2,178
Malaysia		1,939		4,229
Kuwait		1,680		1,783
Oman		1,295		1,518
France		1,082		1,595
Chile		1,003		2,971
Mexico		1,001		16,082

Source: SEMA calculations from IHS Global Insight data.

By Linda Spencer

Barry Adler (second from left), president of Quick Time Performance, a manufacturer of electronically controlled exhaust cutouts, said that it is important for the company to be in at the early stages of the Chinese specialty-equipment market. “We can help educate them with our products,” he said, “and exporting is the largest growth potential we have. We are putting more money and time into developing this overseas business than in growing our domestic sales.”

Manufacturers of suspension, air-intake and performance exhaust systems, among other products, have already registered to participate in the 2013 SEMA China Business Development Tour in Beijing, September 11–14. Grants from the United States government to help defray costs are available for qualified companies. The three-day program includes exhibiting at a trade show open only to pre-qualified buyers from throughout China, touring retailers and wholesalers of specialty products and a briefing by United States government officials.

Each year this popular trip sells out. Register now!

For more information, please contact Linda Spencer at lindas@sema.org.

By Linda Spencer

Barry Adler (second from left), president of Quick Time Performance, a manufacturer of electronically controlled exhaust cutouts, said that it is important for the company to be in at the early stages of the Chinese specialty-equipment market. “We can help educate them with our products,” he said, “and exporting is the largest growth potential we have. We are putting more money and time into developing this overseas business than in growing our domestic sales.”

Manufacturers of suspension, air-intake and performance exhaust systems, among other products, have already registered to participate in the 2013 SEMA China Business Development Tour in Beijing, September 11–14. Grants from the United States government to help defray costs are available for qualified companies. The three-day program includes exhibiting at a trade show open only to pre-qualified buyers from throughout China, touring retailers and wholesalers of specialty products and a briefing by United States government officials.

Each year this popular trip sells out. Register now!

For more information, please contact Linda Spencer at lindas@sema.org.

By SEMA Staff

	The 2012 SEMA Show drew more than 60,000 domestic and international buyers.

The 2013 SEMA Show is already surpassing last year's early exhibitor registrations. As of today, the management team is reporting a 9% increase in companies participating in the Priority Booth Selection Process. The record level of early exhibitor commitment is also a strong indicator that the overall health of the specialty-equipment industry continues to improve.

For exhibitors hoping to connect with buyers, the SEMA Show is the premier trade show. In fact, the 2012 SEMA Show drew more than 60,000 domestic and international buyers. Building off that momentum, exhibitors are registering early and premium booth spaces are still available. To reserve your booth for the 2013 SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com/buyabooth.

According to Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events, the increased level of early booth sales is a clear indicator that specialty-equipment businesses can not afford to miss the annual Show.

"With this increased commitment exhibitors are demonstrating earlier in the year, it's apparent the SEMA Show provides unmatched brand-building visibility and sales exposure in one venue," explained MacGillivray.

The 2013 SEMA Show takes place at the Las Vegas Convention Center, Tuesday–Friday, November 5–8, in Las Vegas. The displays are segmented into 12 sections, and last year's Ideas Alive: Featuring the New Products Showcase featured nearly 2,000 newly introduced parts, tools and components. In addition, the SEMA Show provides attendees with educational seminars, product demonstrations, special events, networking opportunities and more.

The 12 categories of the SEMA Show are: Collision Repair & Refinish; Mobile Electronics & Technology; Wheels & Accessories; Global Tire Expo—Powered by TIA; Powersports & Utility Vehicles; Tools & Equipment; Restoration Marketplace; Trucks, SUVs, Off-Road; Racing & Performance; Business Services; Hot Rod Alley; Restyling & Car Care Accessories.

For more information on the 2013 SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

By SEMA Staff

	The 2012 SEMA Show drew more than 60,000 domestic and international buyers.

The 2013 SEMA Show is already surpassing last year's early exhibitor registrations. As of today, the management team is reporting a 9% increase in companies participating in the Priority Booth Selection Process. The record level of early exhibitor commitment is also a strong indicator that the overall health of the specialty-equipment industry continues to improve.

For exhibitors hoping to connect with buyers, the SEMA Show is the premier trade show. In fact, the 2012 SEMA Show drew more than 60,000 domestic and international buyers. Building off that momentum, exhibitors are registering early and premium booth spaces are still available. To reserve your booth for the 2013 SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com/buyabooth.

According to Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events, the increased level of early booth sales is a clear indicator that specialty-equipment businesses can not afford to miss the annual Show.

"With this increased commitment exhibitors are demonstrating earlier in the year, it's apparent the SEMA Show provides unmatched brand-building visibility and sales exposure in one venue," explained MacGillivray.

The 2013 SEMA Show takes place at the Las Vegas Convention Center, Tuesday–Friday, November 5–8, in Las Vegas. The displays are segmented into 12 sections, and last year's Ideas Alive: Featuring the New Products Showcase featured nearly 2,000 newly introduced parts, tools and components. In addition, the SEMA Show provides attendees with educational seminars, product demonstrations, special events, networking opportunities and more.

The 12 categories of the SEMA Show are: Collision Repair & Refinish; Mobile Electronics & Technology; Wheels & Accessories; Global Tire Expo—Powered by TIA; Powersports & Utility Vehicles; Tools & Equipment; Restoration Marketplace; Trucks, SUVs, Off-Road; Racing & Performance; Business Services; Hot Rod Alley; Restyling & Car Care Accessories.

For more information on the 2013 SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

By SEMA Staff

	The 2012 SEMA Show drew more than 60,000 domestic and international buyers.

The 2013 SEMA Show is already surpassing last year's early exhibitor registrations. As of today, the management team is reporting a 9% increase in companies participating in the Priority Booth Selection Process. The record level of early exhibitor commitment is also a strong indicator that the overall health of the specialty-equipment industry continues to improve.

For exhibitors hoping to connect with buyers, the SEMA Show is the premier trade show. In fact, the 2012 SEMA Show drew more than 60,000 domestic and international buyers. Building off that momentum, exhibitors are registering early and premium booth spaces are still available. To reserve your booth for the 2013 SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com/buyabooth.

According to Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events, the increased level of early booth sales is a clear indicator that specialty-equipment businesses can not afford to miss the annual Show.

"With this increased commitment exhibitors are demonstrating earlier in the year, it's apparent the SEMA Show provides unmatched brand-building visibility and sales exposure in one venue," explained MacGillivray.

The 2013 SEMA Show takes place at the Las Vegas Convention Center, Tuesday–Friday, November 5–8, in Las Vegas. The displays are segmented into 12 sections, and last year's Ideas Alive: Featuring the New Products Showcase featured nearly 2,000 newly introduced parts, tools and components. In addition, the SEMA Show provides attendees with educational seminars, product demonstrations, special events, networking opportunities and more.

The 12 categories of the SEMA Show are: Collision Repair & Refinish; Mobile Electronics & Technology; Wheels & Accessories; Global Tire Expo—Powered by TIA; Powersports & Utility Vehicles; Tools & Equipment; Restoration Marketplace; Trucks, SUVs, Off-Road; Racing & Performance; Business Services; Hot Rod Alley; Restyling & Car Care Accessories.

For more information on the 2013 SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

By SEMA Staff

	The 2012 SEMA Show drew more than 60,000 domestic and international buyers.

The 2013 SEMA Show is already surpassing last year's early exhibitor registrations. As of today, the management team is reporting a 9% increase in companies participating in the Priority Booth Selection Process. The record level of early exhibitor commitment is also a strong indicator that the overall health of the specialty-equipment industry continues to improve.

For exhibitors hoping to connect with buyers, the SEMA Show is the premier trade show. In fact, the 2012 SEMA Show drew more than 60,000 domestic and international buyers. Building off that momentum, exhibitors are registering early and premium booth spaces are still available. To reserve your booth for the 2013 SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com/buyabooth.

According to Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events, the increased level of early booth sales is a clear indicator that specialty-equipment businesses can not afford to miss the annual Show.

"With this increased commitment exhibitors are demonstrating earlier in the year, it's apparent the SEMA Show provides unmatched brand-building visibility and sales exposure in one venue," explained MacGillivray.

The 2013 SEMA Show takes place at the Las Vegas Convention Center, Tuesday–Friday, November 5–8, in Las Vegas. The displays are segmented into 12 sections, and last year's Ideas Alive: Featuring the New Products Showcase featured nearly 2,000 newly introduced parts, tools and components. In addition, the SEMA Show provides attendees with educational seminars, product demonstrations, special events, networking opportunities and more.

The 12 categories of the SEMA Show are: Collision Repair & Refinish; Mobile Electronics & Technology; Wheels & Accessories; Global Tire Expo—Powered by TIA; Powersports & Utility Vehicles; Tools & Equipment; Restoration Marketplace; Trucks, SUVs, Off-Road; Racing & Performance; Business Services; Hot Rod Alley; Restyling & Car Care Accessories.

For more information on the 2013 SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

By SEMA Staff

	The 2012 SEMA Show drew more than 60,000 domestic and international buyers.

The 2013 SEMA Show is already surpassing last year's early exhibitor registrations. As of today, the management team is reporting a 9% increase in companies participating in the Priority Booth Selection Process. The record level of early exhibitor commitment is also a strong indicator that the overall health of the specialty-equipment industry continues to improve.

For exhibitors hoping to connect with buyers, the SEMA Show is the premier trade show. In fact, the 2012 SEMA Show drew more than 60,000 domestic and international buyers. Building off that momentum, exhibitors are registering early and premium booth spaces are still available. To reserve your booth for the 2013 SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com/buyabooth.

According to Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events, the increased level of early booth sales is a clear indicator that specialty-equipment businesses can not afford to miss the annual Show.

"With this increased commitment exhibitors are demonstrating earlier in the year, it's apparent the SEMA Show provides unmatched brand-building visibility and sales exposure in one venue," explained MacGillivray.

The 2013 SEMA Show takes place at the Las Vegas Convention Center, Tuesday–Friday, November 5–8, in Las Vegas. The displays are segmented into 12 sections, and last year's Ideas Alive: Featuring the New Products Showcase featured nearly 2,000 newly introduced parts, tools and components. In addition, the SEMA Show provides attendees with educational seminars, product demonstrations, special events, networking opportunities and more.

The 12 categories of the SEMA Show are: Collision Repair & Refinish; Mobile Electronics & Technology; Wheels & Accessories; Global Tire Expo—Powered by TIA; Powersports & Utility Vehicles; Tools & Equipment; Restoration Marketplace; Trucks, SUVs, Off-Road; Racing & Performance; Business Services; Hot Rod Alley; Restyling & Car Care Accessories.

For more information on the 2013 SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com.