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Focusing on the significance of Latin America to the Houston port region’s economy, the 4th Annual Coffee Symposium attracted hundreds of participants, who learned the ins and outs of importing coffee through the Port of Houston. Chaired by PHA Commissioner Jimmy Burke since its inception, the 2008 event was held Nov. 17–18 and sponsored by the Port of Houston Authority, the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region and the Greater Houston Coffee Association.

In his keynote address, PHA Chairman Jim Edmonds singled out Brazil as the leading source of coffee through the port, followed by Colombia and Mexico. Among other speakers, Alan Kaiser of the National Coffee Association reviewed the latest data concerning coffee trends.

The second day of the event culminated in the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region’s Sippin’ and Cruisin’ Business Excellence Awards Gala, held at the new Bayport Cruise Terminal. PHA Commissioner Steve Phelps gave welcoming remarks.

The symposium included:
• a continental breakfast
• morning sessions on Latin America's perspective of the coffee industry and Houston’s increasing industry influence
• lunch
• afternoon workshops for experienced and emerging coffee entrepreneurs
• many opportunities for networking

Speakers included: Alan Kaiser, National Coffee Association; José Maria Ribeiro Neto, coffee planter and member, Cooxupe; Jim Edmonds, Port of Houston Authority, Don Pisano, American Coffee and chair of the Green Coffee Association Traffic & Warehouse Committee; L.B. Booty, U.S. Food and Drug Administration; Vera Braun, Coffee America (USA) Inc.; Matt Braunner, Braunner International; Tammy Deininger, Volcafe USA LLC; Mike Sinclair, U.S. Customs and Border Protection; and Scott Singleton, Kadena Strategies, Inc.