How On Earth To Get a Doha Deal Done

The Doha round of trade talks is still in the works.  Learn how global bigwigs demand that the deal be done by the end of the year.  Think it's feasible?

It urges its sponsors, along with the rest of the leaders of the world’s big economies, formally to commit to finishing the round by the end of the year. It is far from clear how such a deadline could be made binding, but the idea is as much tactical as practical, and received backing this week from the International Chamber of Commerce.

Learn more here.

Illustration credit here.

2011 Infiniti G37 Sudan Journey Has Got...IT!

The Car Concerns Radio Proving Grounds receives vehicles from all of the Automobile Manufactures of the World. Some just stick-out and rise above the others.

Infiniti has given the sporty G37 Sudan Journey a mid-cycle refresh for the latest model year, including cosmetic changes to the front and rear fascias, following an update to the interior for the previous model year.

For the 2011 G37 stems from an upgraded edition of Nissan's VQ-series dual-cam V6, keyed to an electronically controlled drive-by-wire throttle. It employs a high-tech valve controller, VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift), and revs all the way to 7600 rpm. At 7000 revolutions, peak power of 328-hp is made, with torque rising to 269 ft-lbs at 5200 rpm.

The G37 supports two transmissions, an incredibly quick shifting seven-speed electronically controlled automatic featuring downshift rev matching (DRM) and manual shift mode (via paddle shifters on the steering wheel), or a six-speed close-ratio manual stick planted on the center console.

Three of the four trim versions of G37 stock the automatic shifter. The three are labeled as a leather-lined base edition G37 sedan, the G37 Journey and the G37x AWD Sedan Sport. A version packing the manual transmission is the G37 Sport M6 Sedan.

Fuel economy for the powerful V6 is reasonably good, with a rating of 19/27-mpg (city/highway) for automatic RWD models and 18/25-mpg for AWD versions. Our manual transmission tester, while plenty of fun, delivers the worst fuel economy of the bunch at 17/25-mpg.

HERE'S A SUDAN WITH SPORTS CAR HANDLING

The G37's platform features front wheels mounted way forward with the engine positioned so that its center of gravity falls behind the front axles. This placement results in a weight distribution biased slightly in favor of front wheels.

Add acceleration out of the curve and the near-perfect weight-balance become obvious, enabling the aggressive driver to carve one corner after another with keen confidence; which is the way we work it on serpentine Engineers Road, testing the limits of tire adhesion.

Steering, through a quick-to-respond rack and pinion mechanism, feels firm despite the assist from a vehicle-speed-sensitive power boost, while competent factory brakes on most models are upgraded on our six-speed test-car, with powerful 4-piston calipers up front delivering impressive stopping power.

All G37 models carry Infiniti's vehicle dynamic control (VDC) device, which automatically checks lateral skidding on slippery pavement.

Harry says you just have to drive a 2011 G37 Sudan Journey for yourself.

Special thanks to Cat Smith of Cat-Eye Photo Shoots

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Car Concerns Radio Presents...

The Car-Of-The-Week at the Car Concerns Proving Grounds is the 2011 Buick Lacrosse CXL FWD from General Motors. A beautiful Red Jewel Tintcoat with Coca Light Cashmere. Our 2011 Buick Lacarosse has a 2.4 Liter DOHC engine with plenty of power and delivers upto 30 MPG when cruising down the highway.

For the future, the LaCrosse will remain the flagship of the Buick lineup, so at first look, it might seem strange that General Motors is adding a seemingly modest inline-four cylinder engine to the sedan's powertrain list. However, at the time the LaCrosse was being developed in 2007-2008, gasoline prices in the United States had spiked to their highest levels ever, topping $4 per gallon. General Motors product planners were understandably working on the assumption that fuel prices would remain high and continue an upward trend in the coming years.

They got that right!

Buick officials won't say so out-right, another factor that likely played into the decision to offer the 2.4-liter EcoTec four-cylinder engine was the underwhelming response to the new 3.0-liter direct injected V6. While the new smaller V6 is a smooth runner and produces similar power to the company's earlier 3.6-liter port injected V6, it was lacking in torque compared to its larger counterpart and actually got slightly inferior fuel economy. We recently had the chance to sample the new four-cylinder-powered LaCrosse CX in rural Tennessee. At the Car Concerns Radio Proving Grounds we found out that less is indeed more when it comes to Buick's handsome sedan.

Buick is a premium brand trying to compete with the likes of Lexus and Acura, refinement remains paramount. The LaCrosse has generally been praised for its quiet and roomy interior and high level of fit and finish. The obvious concern is that a more peppy four-cylinder could disrupt the serenity that buyers in this segment are likely to prefer. While the DI EcoTec isn't necessarily the most powerful engine in its class (the Hyundai Sonata tops it by 18 horsepower) it is a smooth runner and EcoTec.

Previous port injected versions of the Family Two EcoTec (the larger 2.0, 2.2 and 2.4-liter variants) had used a lost foam casting process for the aluminum cylinder block. Lost foam castings are dimensionally accurate and well suited to complex parts like engine blocks. However, the resulting casting can be less dense, and when General Motors pioneered the process in the late-1980s for the original Saturn engines, it had issues with porosity. Those problems were eventually overcome, but newer direct injected engines have higher internal pressures and there have often been complaints about the ticking sound produced by the injectors on other DI engines.

the direct injected EcoTec block is instead produced with a precision sand-casting process. The resulting part is more rigid and transmits less of the injector and combustion noise, allowing it to run quieter. On the outside of the engine, the engineers have also covered the high pressure fuel pump and injector rail with a high density foam as a noise abatement measure. Along with the variable valve timing, the 2.4 produces the same 182 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque as it does in the Chevy Equinox and GMC Terrain.

Buick started producing four-cylinder LaCrosses at the Fairfax Kansas assembly plant, and for the remainder of the 2010 model year, the I4 will only be available in the base CX model. When 2011 models are launched this summer, however, the engine's availability will be expanded to the mid-level CXL. Our CX tester was equipped with the fabric upholstery that looks like some sort of modern micro-fiber that ought to wear well over time. Leather surfaces aren't available in the CX, so if you want a four-cylinder LaCrosse with hide-covered thrones, you'll have to wait for the CXL this fall.

The 2011 Buick Lacrosse is a Car Concerns Radio Certified great buy presenting the retail auto consumer great value along with performance and styling.

Harry thinks that you will find the same to be true once you test-drive one for yourself at your local Buick Dealer.

www.buick.com

Any questions? harry@carconcerns.com



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A Five-Point Strategy For Making Global Sourcing Successful

As the new Import and Export Guide for About.com, I wrote this article on global sourcing:

Global sourcing offers many benefits, including lower costs, faster go-to market time and a broader resource pool. This article provides tips on how to make the most of global sourcing. But first, it's important to understand exactly what global sourcing means.

Global Sourcing:  5 Ways to Make Global Sourcing a Success

What other tips am I missing?

World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2011

Familiarize yourself with what's happening (live in some cases) as leaders worldwide share their insights on issues at the top of the Davos agenda.

Go here for more information.

Photo credit captured from here.

The Aon Political Risk Map (APRM)

The APRM is an interactive guide to various risks worldwide.  It shows how the overall risk score has fluctuated for each country over the past five years, as well as reflecting other specific risks such as legal and regulatory risk and political interference.

Play around with it here.

And if the link does not work, do a Google or Bing search to find it yourself:  FT.com / global Economy - May:  How risks are changing around the world.

Illustration credit here.

Posted by:  The Global Small Business Blog

The New India

Who is the new India?

Find out here:

The Ideas Shaping a New India
NYTimes.com || Global Edition
by Anand Giridharadas

Learn more about the author's book (pictured), "India Calling:  An Intimate Portrait of a Nation's Remaking," published by Times Books

The Cool Factor: Hotel G in Beijing

I'm always on the lookout for cool things related to global business and while I was scanning the Chicago Tribune over the weekend I caught:

Icelandic composer raves about Poland

Why am I sharing this article with you?  Because deep within the body of it Olafur Arnalds mentions his favorite hotel:  Hotel G.

Q: What are your favorite hotels?

A: I've probably stayed at more than 100 hotels in the last couple of years, but my favorite must be Hotel G (hotel-g.com) in Beijing. Very cool interior design, and you can choose the color of your window with the switch of a button in the room. I have tried very hard to persuade the management staff to use the master control to write my name on the outside of the building with the window colors, without much luck! And the floors are so soft that you don't really need the comfy bed. I stay there every time I go to Beijing, if not only for the friendly staff and nice food, then the iPod docks … in every room.

So the next time you travel to Beijing to drum up business, check out the very cool looking place.

Photo credit:  Hotel G

Posted by:  The Global Small Business Blog

And the Winner for the Growth Through Global Trade Award Goes To ...

SteelMaster Buildings LLC -- a manufacturer, designer and supplier of arched steel structures.

How did they win it?  Numerous reasons but here are two:

1. SteelMaster Buildings exports to more than 40 countries and has distributorship relationships in more than 50 international markets.

2. Since the company began exporting in 2006, the company’s revenue has quadrupled and now represents 15 percent of the company’s total revenue.

Read all about how SteelMaster Buildings earned this prestigious UPS award that only goes to SMBs who excel in international trade here.

Congratulations!

Full disclosure:  I had the pleasure of serving as one of the judges on this fabulous program.  We originally blogged about it here.

Photo credit here.

Presenting the 2011 Honda Odyssey

This week at the Car Concerns Radio Proving Grounds Harry has the all-new 2011 Honda Odyssey that seeks to redefine the concept of the minivan with its aggressive stance and sporty "lightning-bolt" beltline. The lightning bolt not only provides an exclusive appearance, but also adds increased visibility for third-row passengers. All new interior features add more convenience for work or play.

While available entertainment technology introduces high-definition connectivity and split-screen viewing. This eye-catching 2011 Honda Odyssey is currently the best-selling minivan in the U.S. since being introduced this fall. Compared to the previous Odyssey, the 2011 model's lower roof-line profile (-1.6 inches versus 2010 Odyssey EX) and wider track (+1.4 inches) contribute to a sleeker, stronger and more dynamic presence with improved aerodynamics that help increase fuel economy and also translate into more interior width that makes a statement about the feel of the ride.

Interior:

* AM/FM/XM/CD Premium Audio System with 12 Speakers
* Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with Voice Activation
* Ultra-Wide Rear Entertainment System (RES) with split-screen capability
* External HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) input
* 150-watt AC power outlet
* Media tray with integrated beverage holder
* Removable 1st row center console with hidden storage
* New cool box in lower center stack (keeps items cool when vehicle is running)
* Leather-trimmed seating with heated front seats
* Memory-linked 10-way power driver's seat
* LATCH child seat anchors in five seating positions, including three positions in the second row to accommodate three child seats simultaneously
* Two captain's chairs in the second row provide adult comfort with center seat folded down
* One-strap stowable 3rd Row Magic Seat®
* Second- and third-row passenger window sunshades
* 15 beverage holders
* Trash bag ring

Exterior:

* HID front headlights
* 18-inch alloy wheels
* 12.6-inch ventilated front disc brakes
* Power side mirrors with integrated turn indicators
* Power tailgate

A quick look at the 2011 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite Specs:

* 3.5-liter i-VTEC™ V-6 engine with three-mode Variable Cylinder Management™
* Preliminary estimated fuel economy, Odyssey Touring Elite (City/Highway): 19/28 miles per gallon*

* Preliminary EPA mileage estimates determined by Honda. Final EPA mileage estimates not available at the time of printing. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

Harry is talking about the 2011 Odyssey Elite Van on Nationally Syndicated Car Concerns Radio which broadcast Monday Thur Friday from 9:00 to 11:00 A.M. (EST). Car Concerns radio is heard in some of the strongest automotive radio markets in the USA including Boston, Chicago, Las Vegas, Orlando/Winter Springs, Pittsburgh, Seattle, Hagatna Guam.

Car Concerns Radio is "LIVE" Internet Streamed @ www.lifestyletalkradio.com/carconcerns and featured all over the World-Wide Internet on various Pod-Cast Sites.

Recorded on January 22, 2011 using a Harry Flip Video camera.



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Will Eric Schmidt Run Apple?

In light of what's happening at Apple with the upsetting situation of Steve Jobs taking another leave of absence from the company due to his health, I can't help but wonder at the same time why there is a sudden management overhaul over at Google.

 Change is the only thing that is constant in life.  This could become disruptive innovation at its best.

Your thoughts?

Posted by:  Laurel Delaney, The Global Small Business Blog

About.com: Laurel Delaney, Import and Export Guide

Please join me for some serious discussions and sharing of vital information on importing/exporting over at About.com (a part of The New York Times Company).

About.com
Laurel Delaney
Import and Export Guide

Sign up for the newsletter and participate in My Forum.

This site is brand new.  Watch it morph into the go-to-destination for anything to do with importing and exporting.

A World View

The popular Small Business Trends does an excellent recap of:

Small Business News:  The Global View

Of particular interest is, "Building Your (Global) Brand with Social Media"

Posted by:  The Global Small Business Blog

Juke Me! The 2011 Nissan Juke S FWD That Is!

What's fun to drive and gets you from point A to point B in great fashion and style. It's the 2011 Nissan Juke S FWD.

The Stats: *MPG: 27 City / 32 Hwy * Market Price: $19,710 * Invoice Price: $18,099
* Estimated Monthly Payment: $358* * Basic Warranty: 36 months/36,000 miles

*Monthly payment estimate based on 0% down, 5% interest rate for 60 months; taxes, dealer delivery and extras not included.

The bold and exciting Nissan JUKE Sport Cross is all-new for 2011. With distinctive concept-car styling this small sport crossover offers great performance and economy together with a comfortable and practical interior.

The JUKE seats five with plenty of storage space and is offered in three trim levels: S, SV, and SL. The standard engine is a 180+ hp 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with direct gasoline injection. Together with an advanced CVT or six-speed manual transmission the JUKE is available with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. The six-speed manual is available only with the SV and SL front-wheel drive trims. Standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, cloth bucket seats, 60-40 fold-down rear seat, Bluetooth, and a six-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system. Safety features include six airbags, active front head restraints, vehicle dynamic control, and traction control. Available features include a navigation system, upgraded Rockford-Fosgate speakers, leather interior, power moonroof, and a new Integrated Control (I-CON) system with 3-mode automatic air conditioning.

The 2011 Nissan JUKE is all-new.


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Best International Shipping Deals

Got an import or export sale and can't decide the best way to ship the goods?  Here's a look at places to consider:

DHL International Services

FedEx International

Fulfillment by AliExpress (learn more about this new service here)

UPS Global Trade

USPS - International Mail & Packages (for the small stuff)

Posted by:  The Global Small Business Blog

What's Ahead in 2011

My latest contribution for the American American OPEN Forum via Small Business Trends:

2011:  The Year of ...

What else do you think 2011 will bring us?  I welcome your comments!

Posted by:  Laurel Delaney, The Global Small Business Blog

2012 Ford Focus Electric

Ford just showed the Focus Electric at the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show. Unlike the Nissan Leaf, the all-electric Ford is based on a gasoline powered car. The Focus EV will charge up quicker than a Leaf and has a little extra power too. The Focus EV's 6.6kW on-board charger has twice the capacity of the Leaf's. The Focus EV has a top speed of 84 mph, delivers 123 hp and includes tons of standard features like 17 inch wheels, MyFord Touch, Sat nav, and four wheel disc brakes. Ford hasn't confirmed range but did say it's about 100 miles, like the Nissan Leaf.

The 2012 Ford Focus Electric should be available by early next year.

Globalize Where the Return is Everywhere

Globalization is here to stay.  It's not a matter of surviving during current challenging economic times; it's a case of thriving.  This article (heavy emphasis on translation issues) answers the central question:  Is this the right time to expand internationally?

See if it is for you.

Bottom line:  Get out of your local rut and go global!

Posted by:  The Global Small Business Blog

Spring of Genius

"Let us love winter, for it is the spring of genius." ~ Pietro Aretino

Photo credit: Laurel J. Delaney, lakefront, Rogers Park, Illinois, U.S.A., 2011

Brazil: A Place To Do Business

National Export Strategy 2008

The National Export Strategy is the annual report of the Trade Promotion Coordinating Committee (TPCC).  The 2008 report takes a look at trends that contributed to the growth of U.S. exports in recent years, including strong international demand, the growth of e-commerce, and continued U.S. global competitiveness.

Download it:

Online: PDF Format

The big question:  Where are the 2009 and 2010 reports?

Considering we have this huge export push from the United States government, I'd like to see updated reports.   

Wouldn't you?

Increase Your Sales Around the World

In this case, it all started with a mention on knitting blogs about Alexis Winslow's website that has increased sales for her around the world.

Learn more:

Designer with local roots going global

Painting illustration:  Alexis Winslow

A How-To On Expanding Your Business Globally

Considerations and a plan for going global.

How to Expand Your Business Globally

Posted by:  The Global Small Business Blog

How to Run a Global Small Business on a Shoestring

Running a small business that takes on the world does not have to be costly.  Learn how Neil Payne set up his business on a laptop in a studio flat in 2004 and now oversees a company with offices in the UK, USA, Argentina, South Africa, Germany and the UAE.

Read tips on how he did it here.

Posted by:  The Global Small Business Blog

Who Has More Obese People Than Any Other Country?

Find out:

American fat goes global

And just when you thought ... "what else can go global?!"

Illustration credit here.

Canada: Show Me How to Trade

Learn the basics of international trade -- even some things you should consider before you get started -- from Canada Business, Government Services for Entrepreneurs.

Illustration credit here.

Posted by: The Global Small Business Blog

The UK's Perspective on International Trade

A useful site on international trade with its origin in the UK.  A sampling on a couple of the informative articles:

1. Is it time to have "China in your hand?"
   
2. How To Embrace Global Collaboration
3. What’s In Store For Those Involved In International Trade?

There's a video too: "Survive and Thrive in the Crisis By Trading Internationally."

Keep looking.  There's lots more.

Illustration credit here.

Some Like It Global

From how to structure a Letter of Credit to posting surety bonds to offering new credit terms to increase international business, these exporters found success.

Here's how.

Hint:  It starts with a local U.S. Export Assistance Center.  Find yours here.

2011 Year in Review

The New York Times provides:

2011 Year in Review slide show

If nothing else, it will make you smile.

Illustration credit here (slide No. 6).

A State With Record Highs in Export Sales

New Hampshire has experienced record highs in export sales for the past three years, and the majority of it stems from small businesses.

Learn more about this here and also ask a question to their expert, Dawn Wivell, director of the state's International Trade Resource Center, here.

Illustration credit:  Encyclopedia Britannica