About HITDC

Established in January of 2008, the Houston International Trade Development Council, Inc. (HITDC) is a 501(c)3 non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to helping Houston-area small & medium enterprises SMEs develop economically in new and emerging global markets in developing countries of Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Central and South America, via trade mission and forums.

HITDC works with private and non-profit resources to help build strong, sustainable and successful SMEs seeking opportunities abroad. The end results are wealth creation, job creation, retention and better economic health in the Houston area.

HITDC supports local economic development corporations, chambers of commerce, community based business outreach centers and International-based organizations whose primary mission is to assist Houston area SMEs.

By partnering with local, well-respected business growth organizations and community colleges, HITDC and the SMEs we serve can tap into an abundance of resources and know how already in place, thereby enhancing the long-term growth and viability of our international business community.

In order to meet the social, cultural and economic challenges of the global marketplace, Houston area SMEs must rise to the occasion and seek opportunities that are beyond our borders by promoting and participating in international trade.

  • Outbound/Inbound Trade Missions and Forums
  • Hosting Global Trade Conference and Foreign Delegations
  • Access to local and international trade organizations
  • Head of State and Ambassador Level Events
  • Facilitate International Initiatives for Chamber of Commerces
  • Scholarship Opportunities for International Students
  • Monthly Magazine: International Focus (iF Magazine)

If you are looking for an opportunity to expand your business internationally, then consider becoming involved with the Houston International Trade Development Council’s programs and events!

Let us become your guide to assist you in entering the emerging and developing global marketplace.

Mission Statement

Our mission is to create economic opportunities for Houston-area small & medium enterprises (SMEs) by promoting trade and socially responsible leadership for our partners worldwide. When we succeed, our members create high-quality jobs, improve their quality of life and develop vibrant communities.

Board of Directors


Chairman – Dr. Jim Wu
President & CEO – Val Thompson
Vice President – Miao Guo Smith
2nd Vice President – Maliha Mian
Acting Treasure – John Imafidon, CPA
Asian American International Initiative Chair – Nicole Griswold
African American International Initiative Chair - Angelique Bartholomew
Latin American International Initiative Chair – Heidi Powell
Recording Secretary – Jennifer Lopez

Advisory Board Members

Vernon D. Darko, President, EQUIPXP
Zaki M. Mirza, Vice-President, Pakistan Chamber of Commerce – USA
Josena Arquieta, President, J D Metals LLC
Stephen Le Jr., President, Vietnamese-American Chamber of Commerce
Jaa St. Julien, President, St. Julien Communications Group LLC
Stephen Yoe, President, Myanmar Chamber of Commerce
Reshard J. Alexander, Esq., Customs & International Business Law
Hon. Alfred J. Calloway, Former, Houston City Council Member
Jiangqiang Wang, President, China Offshore International Co., Ltd.
Hon. Tea V. Banks, President, United Nations Association
Tom Ren, President, GLOBALXLR
Hon. Bill C. Littlejohn, Retired, Judge
Hon. Carol Galloway
C.C. Lee, President, Chinese Chamber of Commerce
Deanna Teel, Former Houston City Council Member, Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP)
Leondria Thompson, President,Tri-County International Chamber
Nargis F. Ahmed, Pakistan Community Leader of Commerce
Marie Lee, President, Alief Community Association
© 2026 Houston International Trade Development Council (HITDC) | All rights reserved.
Graphic Design by: CBA Media Group