The Hispanic-American, because he or she is bilingual and bicultural, could play an important role in the future economic development of the United States. Declines in steel, automotive, and electronics industries due to foreign competition and market saturation have caused industrial displacement and unemployment. The Maquiladora or Twin Plant industry, established by agreement between Mexico and the United States allows U.S. companies to operate plants inside Mexico under certain restrictions, stimulating manufacturing in that country for the U.S. market. While the program has resulted in increased opportunities along the border and has allowed U.S. companies to remain competitive because of lower labor costs, the U.S. government's paternalistic attitude has created dissention rather than understanding, and labor unions have opposed the plants. What is needed is an economic policy based on world interdependence and economic internationalization. Domestic industry is one-dimensional, and businesses should become more internationally oriented. However, higher education is not adequately preparing international businesspeople. Hispanic-Americans, who have some of the flexibility, awareness of cultural differences, and language proficiency needed in the new market, are an important human resource for international trade. Spanish language maintenance and professionalization are needed. (MSE)