The Trade Information Center is the first stop for companies seeking export assistance from the government and comprehensive export counseling programs. TIC trade specialists advise exporters on:

• how to find and use government programs
• the export process
• market research and trade leads
• overseas and domestic trade events and activities
• public and private export financing
• how to access reports and statistics from the computerized National Trade Data Bank (NTDB)

They also direct businesses to state and local trade organizations that provide additional assistance

The TIC also provides export counseling for Western Europe, Asia, the Western Hemisphere, Africa, and the Near East. TIC trade specialists can assist exporters on import tariffs/taxes and customs procedures, standards, intellectual property rights, government procurement, and other commercial laws, regulations, and practices, distribution channels, business travel, and other market information, opportunities and best prospects for U.S. companies in individual markets, and difficulties encountered on specific commercial transactions.

The TIC is located in the Department of Commerce's USA Trade Center in Washington, DC, which also offers additional counseling and assistance services, including counseling on Eastern Europe and the Newly Independent States. TIC staff can be reached by

Phone: 1-800-USA-TRAD(E) (also for other USA Trade Center services) or (202) 482-0543
Fax: (202) 482-4473, TDD: (for the hearing impaired) 1-800-TDD-TRADE (1-800-833-8723)
E-mail: TIC@ita.doc.gov
Internet: http://tradeinfo.doc.gov/

How Do I Begin An Export Business?

If you have not already established a business, first use the nationwide network of business development centers established by the Small Business Administration to assist beginning entrepreneurs with the fundamentals. To locate the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) nearest you, call 1-800-U-ASK-SBA. The Small Business Administration also has a web page at www.sba.gov This site covers a range of topics, including how to get started, developing a business plan, and sources of financing. SBDC's are also listed on the National Export Directory - the TIC's guide to federal, state, and local trade offices throughout the United States. It is available on the TIC website at http://tradeinfo.doc.gov/ (click on the link to "International Trade Offices Nationwide"), or by calling 1-800-USA-TRAD(E) and speaking to a TIC trade specialist. For information on classes or seminars on international trade, use the Trade Information Center's (TIC) web site at tradeinfo.doc.gov/ and follow the link to TRADEBASE: Export Education Events Nationwide. This database provides information on sources of trade education in your area. If you have already established a business and want to start exporting, refer to the sources of assistance described in the following pages and call 1-800-USA-TRAD(E) with any further questions or for additional guidance.

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