Laredo EDC’s 2025 Pathways For Trade Symposium takes place Aug. 28

LAREDO, Texas – The 32nd Annual Pathways For Trade Symposium takes place at the Laredo County Club on Thursday, Aug. 28. The evening before a reception will take place titled the Trade Ambassador’s Dinner.

The symposium is being hosted, as always, by the Laredo Economic Development Corporation, which has served Los Dos Laredos for 58 years. 

This year, the symposium’s title is “The New Era of Trade: Perspectives & Opportunities.” The symposium will explore the latest trends, policies, and challenges shaping global trade. A big focus this year will be the application of Artificial Intelligence in the logistics and manufacturing sectors.

David A. Stedman, president and CEO of Laredo EDC, says he cannot think of a year when the symposium was more important. 

David A. Stedman

“I don’t think there has ever been a time where international trade is more of a national topic or on the horizon, with the advent of the America First trade policy from the Trump administration,” Stedman told the Rio Grande Guardian International News Service.

“We have to be very astute and conscious of our supply chain, at a time when nearshoring is taking on a whole new dimension. We’re basically reinventing the American supply chain as we go.”

Stedman said he is pleased with the lineup of speakers assembled.

“What we have done here with this symposium is bring together a collection of experts to give people an ongoing explanation of all the things that are going to happen and have happened with respect to our trade, not only with Mexico, but with Canada. We have a nice collection of local and national experts to give clarity to the situation, which is very volatile and very important to the future of the American economy.”

Here is an audio podcast featuring LEDC leaders that previews the symposium:

Editor’s Note: Rio Grande Guardian reporter Daniela Capistran contributed to this story.

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