The West Virginia University College of Business and Economics is offering a five-weekend course beginning Sept. 2 in Charleston to help businesses explore the possibility of exporting to China, one of the worlds fastest growing economies.

Many West Virginia companies with products that would perform well in export markets have held back out of uncertainty about how to break into and operate in a foreign market.

But the WVU export management course helps them explore ways to take advantage of opportunities overseas. Developed in cooperation with the West Virginia Export Council and the U.S. Department of Commerce, the course pairs company representatives with students in the Executive Master of Business Administration program to develop an export marketing plan targeted to the specific needs of the participating company.

Participants learn from a variety of experts, including freight forwarders, financiers, lawyers specializing in international law and professionals from the U.S. Department of Commerce. Topics include readiness assessment, export resources, cultural issues, making contacts, legal and financial issues, distribution channels and marketing.

The network of contacts the College of Business and Economics has in China is an invaluable resource,said Eugene Walters, a recent participant.Were doing five times the export business compared to before. Its been great for business.

The course ends Dec. 10, with classes being taught in the Charleston Area Medical Center. Cost is $200 per company representative.

The registration deadline is Aug. 22. Space is limited and on a first-come, first-serve basis. Company participants may receive professional development credits.

For more information, visit the Web site athttp:// www.be.wvu.edu/emba/upcoming_events.html or call Leslie Drake at the West Virginia Development Office at 304-558-2234.