Successful exporters need good business partners in their targeted markets — representatives, distributors, or end customers. Fortunately, the USCS and other organizations can help.
U.S. 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 view a video on USCS services click here, or for a pdf booklet click here.
State and Local Agencies
There are some excellent state and local organizations in the Virginia/ DC region that sponsor events here and overseas that can present opportunities to meet potential business partners. These include the Virginia EDP – International Trade Center and the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. To learn more click here.
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. Many of these programs are offered in cooperation with the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. To learn more about USDA services click here.
We also offer the following downloadable resources: Business Partner Questionaire, and Distribution Agreement Checklist.