Export Programs Guide: A Business Guide to Federal Export Assistance. 2009 Edition

摘要

This comprehensive guide describes useful programs from more than 20 U.S. Government agencies that help U.S. companies export their goods and services to markets around the world. As many new and successful exporters have discovered, exporting can be an important source of growth, yet challenging. The information in this guide can ease this challenge by offering the support and assistance you need to become a successful exporter. While the United States remains one of the most competitive and productive nations in the world, a relatively low percentage of U.S. companies are engaged in exporting compared to other developed nations. Although U.S. small and medium-sized companies with fewer than 500 employees make up about 97 percent of U.S. exporting firms, they represent less than 30 percent of the value of U.S. exports of merchandise goods. Furthermore, nearly 60 percent of all exporters sell to only one foreign market. Many of these firms could boost U.S. exports by expanding into other markets. In fact, there has never been a better time to export. Increased use of the Internet, improved transportation, and enhanced trade and investment rules have greatly simplified the export process and made it easier to sell abroad.Exporters strengthen their local communities by creating jobs and new opportunities for American workers. This in turn contributes to the economic growth of the United States as a whole. If you do not currently export, consider itespecially since it is likely that your competitors are, or soon will be, selling internationally. If you already export, explore new markets. Either way, if you are new to exporting or are exploring new markets, the Export Programs Guide will help you understand the range of Federal export assistance programs.