Helping U.S. Companies Export

Developed by international trade experts and economists, Export.gov helps you take your business global.

 

Connecting You to Global Markets

Learn how to export, connect with foreign buyers, handle trade challenges and expand operations in new markets. These 12 Export Solutions give you advice, tools and market intelligence for a successful international sales strategy.

1. Learn How to Export - Are you looking to grow your business through exporting? Assess your company’s readiness to enter your first markets, expand into additional markets, or take on more challenging, high-growth export markets.
2. Research Foreign Markets - International market research is a key piece of successful export planning. It is important to critically review and assess demand for your product, as well as factors related to a given export destination. The information will maximize your company's efforts, while keeping the export plan cost and time-efficient. Our resources can help you compare markets and target the right ones.
3. Network and Learn at Events - Participation in domestic trade events is a great way to get connected to your local exporting community and to cultivate valuable relationships with trade experts, service providers, and other businesses.
4. Find Buyers and Partners - Look to international markets for opportunities to grow your business. 95% of the world's consumers are outside of the U.S.  With our information and services, you have help in finding new buyers and partners.
5. Explore eCommerce Resources - Please take this Digital Readiness Questionnaire to help your business grow and increase online sales! Watch our eCommerce Video Series to help you build a digital brand for successful international online sales.
6. Obtain Financing - Make global deals while protecting your cash flow. The U.S. government offers a variety of financing and insurance products to help you build working capital, sell abroad and protect your business.
7. Negotiate an Export Sale - Explore your options for pricing, methods of payment, and financing for your foreign buyers.
8. Navigate Shipping and Logistics - Once you have identified your new foreign buyers, consider how to best ship your goods to international customers efficiently, securely, and legally.
9. Comply with U.S. and Foreign Regulations - It can be challenging to understand and comply with U.S. and foreign regulations for your international sales. Some products require an Export License before shipping. Countries have product standards that have to be met, and there are a few countries that you cannot sell to. There are also considerations when shipping to U.S. free trade agreement countries. The resources on our website introduces you to compliance issues and useful tools to protect your business. Get the basics before you ship your product.
10. Perform Due Diligence - When considering a new market or buyer/partner, take time to conduct due diligence. It could help you avoid costly obstacles. Investigate the political, economic and financial conditions of the market. Carefully select partners and buyers to ensure a successful and profitable relationship.
11. Protect Intellectual Property - Intellectual property (IP) refers to creations of the mind: inventions; literary and artistic works; and symbols, images, names and logos used in commerce. Businesses are often unaware that their business assets include IP rights. Your intellectual property is a valuable intangible asset that should be protected to enhance your competitive advantage in the marketplace.
12. Resolve Export Problems - Visit our website to find government services that help U.S. businesses resolve common trade problems.