FAQ: About Us and Our Services

Export.gov brings together resources from across the U.S. Government to assist American businesses in planning their international sales strategies and succeed in today’s global marketplace.

The Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) have been separated into the following categories:

See the questions below for more generalized information.

What can Global Markets (GM) do to help my business?

What is the difference between market access and compliance?

What are some common trade problems GM can help U.S. businesses overcome?

What do GM services cost?

What can Global Markets (GM) do to help my business?

After you contact our Trade Information Center or the country desk in one of our regional offices, GM will evaluate whether the problem is a market access issue or a compliance problem with an existing trade agreement. GM will establish a team of experts on the country, the industry, the trade agreement, and other needed areas. The team will review all possible options to resolve the problem and then work through each tactic towards a solution.

In addition, leverage the knowledge and influence of the U.S. government and our vast global network of international business experts, contacts and partners.

With offices in more than 100 U.S. cities and 70 countries across the globe, the U.S. government offers U.S. companies exporting information, advice and cost-effective end-to-end international business solutions.

Whether you are new to international sales, trying to enter a new market or looking to expand your business in a specific market here is how we can help you:

For U.S. Companies:

For U.S. Trade Show Organizers:

What is the difference between market access and compliance?

Market Access – U.S. exporters sometimes encounter trade barriers. For instance, a country may only allow products to enter the most inconvenient port or a country may treat imported goods differently than domestic goods. GM receives calls from businesses, associations and international U.S. commercial offices, and we then map out a plan to solve the problem.

Compliance – The United States is a party in over 250 trade agreements. But trade agreements are only paper unless foreign governments comply with their obligations. GM addresses compliance problems quickly and aggressively. Once a problem is identified, we organize a team to outline and implement a solution.

What are some common trade problems GM can help U.S. businesses overcome?

GM provides help with the following common trade problems through the Trade Agreements Negotiations and Compliance Center:

  • Tariff and customs barriers
  • Service barriers
  • Standards, testing, labeling, or certification barriers
  • Rules of origin
  • Government procurement contract barriers
  • Intellectual property protection problems
  • Excessive government requirements
  • Excessive testing or licensing fees
  • Bribery
  • Investment

What do GM services cost?

Most GM services are free of charge to all U.S. businesses.  However, certain products and services do have a fee.  GM fee-based services can be found on our user fee schedule


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