What’s going on in world trade? If you’re running a business, work for a business involved in foreign markets, or just want to know about exporting, we’ve pulled together some resources for you to check. As always, we encourage you to visit www.auri.org for what’s new at AURI.
Foreign Agricultural Service
The Foreign Agricultural Service is a USDA division that works to improve ag product exports. FAS is active overseas in market development, international trade agreements and negotiations, and offers statistical analysis and market information. Its site provides export information on commodities and news on U.S. and foreign markets.
Minnesota Trade Office
MTO, a division of Minnesota’s Department of Trade and Economic Development, promotes and assists “the expansion of exports and foreign direct investments that contribute to the growth of the Minnesota economy.” The MTO Web site’s many features include data on Minnesota communities and publications on tourism, international trade and economic development.
Export Assistance
The Export Assistance and Exporter Information site is excellent for those new to exporting and in need of beginners’ education. Whether you are looking for data on Minnesota, exporting jobs, international opportunities or statistics, Export Assistance has organized it for easy use. Information is provided by the Minnesota District Export Council, a private, nonprofit organization that brings together experienced international business people who can provide guidance and assistance in international markets.
U.S. Commercial Service
The U.S. Commercial Service is part of the U.S. Department of Commerce. Its mission is to promote U.S. exports of goods and services, particularly by small and medium-sized businesses. This site makes export exploration easy – it offers resources and research, an international network to help find partners, updated news and a link for contacting a U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist.
Mid-America International Agri-Trade Council
Since 1969, MIATCO has been promoting Midwest food and agricultural product exports. It provides numerous services, including customized export assistance and a cost-share funding program. Industry professionals and food buyers can benefit from reading “Export 101,” a user-friendly introduction to exporting. Locate U.S. product suppliers, question staff or provide feedback.
U.S. Meat Export Federation
Headquartered in Denver, the U.S. Meat Export Federation is a nonprofit trade association working to create new and develop existing international markets for U.S. beef, pork, lamb and veal. Although it specializes in meat, USMEF offers updates on markets, a supplier search option, export stats and forecasts. USMEF’s site features some interesting extras, such as the “Meat Manual,” a guide for identifying the most common cuts of U.S. meats.