Resources
US Department of Commerce

Providing Quality Export Assistance to US Business

The Commercial Service of the US Department of Commerce is committed to assisting US firms in realizing their export potential by providing export counseling, information on foreign markets, international contacts, and advocacy services. Around the world, the 1,400 men and women of the Commercial Service in our embassies, consulates, commercial centers, and domestic offices promote US business interests abroad.

International Market Research

The National Trade Data Bank (NTDB)

This database, on CD-ROM and on the Internet, contains a vast amount of market research, foreign commercial contacts, trade data, and much more. It is available on the Web at http://www.stat-usa.gov/ and on CD for a fee. To order, call 202-482-1986. It is also available free at many libraries, and portions are featured on the Web at http://tradeport.org/.

Customized Market Analysis (CMA)

A low-cost market research report custom-tailored to a US company’s product or service. The report provides essential marketing facts, including key competitors; comparative prices; distribution channels; promotion practices; trade barriers; and potential representatives, distributors, licensees, or joint-ventures partners.

Locating & Evaluating Buyers for American Products

Trade Missions/Trade Shows

Trade missions or trade shows are organized to “match” you with potential business partners in foreign countries. We will assist your participation in officially recognized overseas trade events, ranging from low-cost catalog exhibitions to trade missions and USA pavilions in foreign trade fairs. See also http://www.export.gov/eac/trade_events.asp.

Commercial News USA (CNUSA)

An export marketing catalog for US products and services, disseminated through US embassies and consulates to over 140,000 business readers plus two million Internet and online service users. The basic ad consists of a photo and text — no artwork necessary! Display ads are available. Listings start at just $445.

Agent/Distributor Service (ADS)

The ADS assists US firms in identifying reps, wholesale customers, major buyers, and potential partners in foreign markets. A bargain at $250 per market.

Gold Key Service (GKS)

The Gold Key Service is a custom-tailored “individual trade mission” for representatives of US firms planning to visit a particular country. Prices range from $200 to $1,200 per day. One or two-day schedules are standard.

International Company Profile

A report on a foreign firm in markets where standard private-sector credit reporting is not available. The cost is only $100 per firm.

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