In accordance with Article III, Section 1 of the Alaska Constitution and AS 44.19.145(c), the Alaska International Trade Commission is hereby created in the Department of Commerce and Economic Development.

The purpose of the commission is to stimulate and assist the interaction and coordination of trade and finance between Alaska and foreign trading parties which will enhance and encourage development opportunities beneficial to Alaska.

In the performance of its duties, the commission shall:

1. Seek and encourage export trade promotion and foreign investment in Alaska in cooperation with private enterprise and the Department of Commerce and Economic Development program for international trade;

2. Advise the governor, foreign industries, and the Alaska business community of potential investment opportunities and possible business relationships;

3. Work with or represent business groups wishing to investigate commercial aims or interests by assisting with contacts and arrangements, put into communication interested parties and, in general, increase the exchange of dialogue between foreign business groups and Alaska business groups;

4. Assist in making an exchange of industrial technicians, specialists, and experts to the Alaska and foreign business communities and interested business groups.

The chairman of the commission is the commissioner of the Department of Commerce and Economic Development. Members of the commission representing business, industry, finance and state government are appointed by and serve at the pleasure of the governor. The director of the Division of Special Industrial Development serves as secretary to the commission. Staff support shall be provided by the department.

Members of the commission receive no salary for their service on the commission, but are entitled to per diem and travel expenses authorized by law for boards and commissions.

This order takes effect immediately.

DATED this 16th day of April, 1981 in Juneau, Alaska.

 S/S Jay S. Hammond   
Jay S. Hammond          
Governor