Miami, FL – June 7, 2004 – The Graphics of the Americas (GOA) show announces that the U.S. Department of Commerce has selected it to participate in its 2005 International Buyer Program (IBP). The 30th “pearl anniversary” GOA conference and exhibition event, scheduled for February 4-6, 2005 at the Miami Beach Convention Center, is the second largest graphic arts and converting show in America, hosting the vital Southeast and Northeast U.S., as well as Caribbean and Latin American, markets. “We’re pleased to meet the criteria for participation in the International Buyer Program, as it allows us to extend unique support and benefits for our international attendees and exhibitors,” says Chris Price, GOA Vice President and General Manager. IBP promotes key U.S. trade shows to international business executives. The program brings thousands of international buyers each year to meet with U.S. companies at major U.S. trade shows. GOA is among only 35 trade shows, out of a pool of approximately 7000 U.S. events, chosen for IBP. Price explains that GOA has traditionally attracted strong Latin American buyer and international supplier attendance. In fact, with 40% of visitors coming from Mexico, South and Central America and the Caribbean, many graphic arts professionals consider Graphics of the Americas to be the largest annual Latin American printing show. “Through the years and now through our successful efforts to become an official participant in the U.S. Commerce’s International Buyer Program, GOA continues to be a leading supporter of the multi-billion dollar international graphic arts business,” Price says. Participants in the IBP program receive: • Recognition as one of the leading trade shows in the U.S. and thus the world. • Identification by the U.S. Government as one of the leading venues for U.S. technology, products and services. • Worldwide event promotion through IBP’s network of more than 150 overseas offices in 85 countries, plus 105 offices throughout the U.S. • Access to business counsel and research on market relevance of the event and exhibitors. • An opportunity to have exhibitors receive a variety of educational and practical assistance in finding, qualifying and conducting business with overseas firms with established credentials. Among specific benefits and support provided under the GOA International Buyer Program are: International Business Center The U.S. Department of Commerce will maintain a comprehensive International Business Center (IBC) during GOA 2005. The IBC will provide translation services, company matching services, private meeting rooms, telephones, fax, and lounge area. Housing GOA will set aside blocks of hotel rooms specifically for international attendees. For information regarding rooms and availability please visit: www.graphicsoftheamericas.com Export Interest Directory Interested exhibitors can be listed within an export interest directory, which will detail products/services, location of export interest and all relevant contact information. It will be made available to all attendees and exhibitors. Worldwide Promotional Campaign To attract the largest possible buying audience, GOA 2005 is embarking on a worldwide, multi-language promotional campaign involving direct mail and industry advertising, incentive programs, public relations, trade journal advertising, and world wide web interactive media. GOA will work with its in-country partners to promote the event.