James is one of 17 appointed to the Advisory Committee by the Export-Import Bank of the United States’ Board of Directors
July 23, 2024
MESA, AZ – Chris James, President and CEO of The National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development (The National Center), has been appointed to the Export-Import Bank of the United States’ (EXIM) Advisory Committee. The appointment is the result of a unanimous vote by the EXIM Board of Directors. The Advisory Committee offers guidance to EXIM on its policies and programs, supporting its mission to provide competitive financing that promotes American jobs through exports.
“I am thrilled to join the EXIM’s Advisory Committee to further The National Center’s work in international trade,” said James. “This is a remarkable opportunity to contribute to EXIM’s mission and play a role in supporting both our nation’s and Indian Country’s economic growth. I am eager to collaborate with such a talented, dedicated, and diverse group of professionals. Together, we will strive to advance our shared goals and drive meaningful progress for the future of the import-export business.”
The Advisory Committee comprises 17 representatives from diverse sectors, including agriculture, environment, production, commerce, finance, labor services, and the textile industry. Meeting quarterly, the committee is mandated by Congress under EXIM’s charter. The chair and committee members are appointed for one-year terms. Peter Harrell, who previously served as Special Assistant to President Biden and Senior Director for International Economics and Competitiveness, will chair the Advisory Committee.
“EXIM’s Advisory Committee is a crucial part of EXIM’s ongoing success,” said EXIM President and Chair Reta Jo Lewis. “I am pleased to welcome our new Advisory Committee members as they join us to advance the EXIM mission and continue to support Bank and Biden-Harris Administration priorities.”
Trade has become an increasingly important part focus area for The National Center. In 2022, The National Center established the Arizona MBDA Export Center to serve the growing market for cross-border Indigenous trade. In 2023, The National Center and the International Trade Administration (ITA) signed a memorandum of agreement at the Select USA Investment Summit to foster both exports from and foreign direct investment in Indian Country. The National Center’s team has participated in international forums and dialogues, including the World Economic Forum sponsored by the World Trade Organization and a trade mission to Africa sponsored by ITA. Earlier this year, James was appointed by President Biden to the United States Trade Representative’s Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiations.
