Now that NAFTA has lowered trade barriers, investors
should take advantage of the central location and well-developed infrastructure
of the state of Guanajuato to enter the Mexican market, said Carlos A. Guillen
Baltazar, promotion vice president of the Guanajuato World Trade Commission
(COFOCE).

Mr. Baltazar visited Atlanta Nov. 14-16 as part of a
trade mission of sixteen companies representing a variety of industries,
including textiles, footwear, tourism, agribusiness, and construction.  The
Mexican businesses met with companies such as Volvo, Ladha Holdings, Inc. of
Atlanta, Coosemans Atlanta Inc. and J.R. Cousins Industries Inc. of Doraville.

Guanajuato, at the center of Mexico, has easy access to
major airports and to the North American market, said Mr. Baltazar.  It has a
skilled work force, good educational system, and a strong communication
network,  he added, and the state government and private sector are actively
looking for international investment, joint ventures and trade opportunities.

The trade mission was presented by the State of
Guanajuato in coordination with Kilpatrick & Cody of Atlanta, Trade
Commission of Mexico (Bancomext), COFOCE, and Alanis, Lavalle, Serrano, y
Doblado of Mexico.

For more information, please contact Cesar Hernandez of
Kilpatrick & Cody at (404) 815-6251.