BUYUSA.GOV -- U.S. Commercial Service

Global Diversity

Fact Sheets for New Exporters

Why Export?

There are many benefits for companies that are selling their goods and services to foreign markets. Increased sales, enhanced competitiveness, and long-term security are all benefits that can come to the small business that sell overseas. more...

Myths About Exporting

Many small business owners and managers believe the myths about exporting - that its too difficult or too costly. But here are the facts.... more...

Are You Ready To Export?

Is your company ready for exporting? A company’s managers must consider this question carefully. Entering foreign markets requires commitment from management and a clear export strategy. Managers must consider some important questions as they make the decision to export. more...

Export Financing

For a small business, the process of obtaining appropriate financing can often be complex and confusing. When commerce is transacted on the international level, however, companies seeking financing can face even more difficult hurdles. more...

Market Research for New Exporters

Market research is the process of gathering and analyzing information relevant to your product or business. Small businesses that want to export have much to gain from conducting research on foreign markets. This research can identify opportunities and constraints abroad, as well as identify potential buyers and customers. There are two types of market research, primary and secondary. more...

The Benefits of NAFTA for SMEs

The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) is a trade agreement between the United States, Canada, and Mexico that liberalizes restrictions on trade between the three countries. The objective of NAFTA is to promote an environment of free competition, increased market access, and improved investment opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). more...

How Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) Benefit SMEs

Through the negotiation of bilateral and regional Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), the United States is working together with our trading partners to obtain easier access for U.S. small business into more markets. FTAs are designed to benefit small businesses, which typically have limited access to investment capital and are disproportionately impacted by trade barriers. FTAs reduce the cost of doing business overseas and allow SMEs to become global players and grow at a much faster rate. more...