Successful exporters need good business partners in their targeted markets — representatives, distributors, or end customers.  Fortunately, the USCS and other US organizations can help.

US Commercial Service (USCS)

One of the best ways to identify good potential business partners overseas is to work with the U.S. Commercial Service. Companies can find assistance locally from the USCS in more than 100 offices nationwide and over 70 international offices.  Broadly defined, their services help American companies to:

• Plan and Assess – Develop your strategy, choose the best market, and evaluate potential overseas partners.
• Promote and Expand – Increase your brand awareness and market exposure. Find and meet potential partners.
• Export Successfully – Learn how these services have helped clients.

To download a USCS services video click here [16MB], or for a pdf booklet on USCS services click here.

State Department of Economic Development (GDEcD)

The Department also helps State exporters develop business connections  through its International Trade Division. It sponsors a number of trade missions and State pavilions at international trade shows, which are an way to meet potential overseas partners. Department also has international reps in ?? overseas countries, which can help exporters enter and expand into these markets.

USDA and FAS Services

If you want to export food or agricultural products, the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture can help. It has a network of overseas FAS offices that cover 171 countries staffed by agricultural attaches and locally hired agricultural experts. These experts are the eyes, ears, and voice for U.S. agriculture internationally. USDA also sponsors a large number of overseas trade missions and tradeshow pavilions for agricultural companies. To learn more about USDA services click here.