Exporting to Markets Around the World

Why export?

Jump to our exporter testimonial video series.

  1. The NAM advocates for a market opening trade agenda that removes barriers and helps manufacturers in the United States sell their goods to global markets where 95% of the world’s consumers are located.
  2. Exports help manufacturers in the United States boost their competitiveness and bottom line. Exports can also help manufacturers mitigate risk during times of economic volatility and create and support create well-paying jobs American jobs.
  3. Over the past few decades, world trade in manufactured goods has expanded strongly and in 2020, U.S.-manufactured goods exports totaled nearly $1.2 trillion. However, there is opportunity to continue to grow U.S. manufactured goods exports.
  4. The NAM supports robust U.S. government export promotion programs and is partnering with Federal Trade Promotion agencies during their celebration of Manufacturing Month to promote the success of manufacturers who export, and to encourage other manufacturers in the U.S. to start or expand their foreign sales.

If you are interested in learning more about the NAM or are interested in speaking with our trade policy staff, please reach out to Ali Aafedt, Director of Trade Facilitation.

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U.S. Government Resources for Manufacturers Looking to Expand to New Markets

Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP): The MEP National Network comprises the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NIST MEP), the 51 MEP Centers located in all 50 states and Puerto Rico, the MEP Advisory Board, MEP Center boards, and the Foundation for Manufacturing Excellence, as well as over 1,400 trusted advisors and experts at approximately 450 MEP service locations. Each MEP Center is a partnership between the federal government and a variety of public or private entities, including state, university and nonprofit organizations. MEP Centers work with manufacturers to develop new products and customers, expand and diversify markets, adopt new technology, and enhance value within supply chains.

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA): SBA’s Office of International Trade helps small businesses go global by providing business intelligence, grants to find customers overseas, and financing to support international sales.

  • Looking for information to help you get started? SBA’s Trade Tools for International Sales website includes information on developing an export plan, identifying target markets, U.S. trade agreements, and much more. You can also call SBA’s International Trade Hotline toll free (855) 722-4877 or email your trade issue to [email protected].
  • Are you concerned about the costs of exporting? The State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) provides grants to cover the costs associated with entering and expanding into international markets. Visit www.sba.gov/step to find out if your state or territory is participating.
  • Having trouble securing capital support your export growth? SBA’s export loans can be used for working capital to finance foreign sales or for fixed assets, helping you better compete globally. Visit SBA’s Export Trade Assistance page to connect with your regional export finance manager.

The International Trade Administration’s U.S. Commercial Service: The U.S. Commercial Service (CS) is the trade and investment promotion arm of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration (ITA). With a network of 100+ offices across the U.S. and in American embassies and consulates in more than 75 international markets. Its mission is to strengthen the U.S. economy and help create jobs by expanding U.S. exports and facilitating inward investment into the United States. As an export solutions provider, the CS leverages global connections to help businesses find partners and customers, assists with strategic planning and addressing trade issues, provides foreign market and industry intelligence, and services for website globalization.

For more information, visit www.trade.gov. Locate your nearest Commercial Service Office here.

Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM): EXIM is the nation’s official export credit agency with the mission of supporting American jobs by facilitating U.S. exports. U.S. small businesses play a critical role in creating and supporting American jobs, and nearly 90% of EXIM transactions directly benefit small businesses. EXIM provides export finance solutions to empower these businesses, including companies with fewer than 100 employees or those that have been traditionally underserved, such as those owned by minorities, women, veterans, and people with disabilities. To achieve this, EXIM offers two primary products: Export Credit Insurance and Working Capital Loan Guarantees, which are designed to help U.S. companies mitigate risk and access working capital so they can confidently export their goods and services worldwide. For more information, please connect with an EXIM trade finance specialist at grow.exim.gov/consultationrequest or how small businesses are using EXIM products at exim.gov/results.

U.S. Census Bureau: The Census Bureau is the official source for U.S. export and import statistics and regulations governing the reporting of exports from the U.S. to other countries. The Census Bureau provides extensive outreach and education to its customers on understanding the Foreign Trade Regulations, classifying commodities, using the Automated Export System, and utilizing the trade data. USA Trade Online allows users to obtain monthly and annual trade statistics at the district and port level, as well as state exports and imports. For more information, please visit www.census.gov/trade or call (800) 549-0595 and select the appropriate option.

Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA): MBDA Export Centers provide free technical assistance and business development to minorities and women who want to learn how to export. MBDA conducts outreach to minorities and women to identify those who are not exporting and would like to explore the opportunity to export. MBDA Export Centers offer one-on-one counseling, webinars, assistance with export business planning, and federal government contract and grant leads. MBDA seeks to educate minority business enterprises on the benefits of strategic growth alternatives, such as exporting to help minorities and women grow and flourish by aiding in greater access to global markets. To connect with an Export Center, click on one of the links below –