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Department of Commerce Export Services |
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Export Programs
The U.S. Commerce Department assists
firms seeking to export products and services. The first step in the
exporting process is to contact a local Department of Commerce U.S.
& Foreign Commercial Service(US&FCS) district office. District
offices are located in major cities throughout the United States and
serve as the first point of contact for export assistance. Each district
office maintains commercial reference materials, including market
information and trade leads from overseas. The U.S. & Foreign
Commercial Service also has offices located at U.S. Embassies and
other posts throughout the world which provide assistance and information
to travelling business persons. The following is a list of Commerce
assistance available for the interested exporter. Contact your local
US&FCSdistrict office for additional information on these programs.
- Foreign Economic Trends (FET)--a
report providing general economic and commercial background information
on Ireland and identifies some of the best sales prospects.
- Comparison Shopping Service (CSS)--a
survey of the overseas market that is custom-tailored for a product
or service. Nine basic questions are researcher and answered about
the probability for success and the best marketing approach for
the product identified.
- Agent/Distributor Service (ADS)--provides
a list of potential agents, distributors, or representatives qualified
and interested in dealing with your product.
- Gold Key-a visit to Ireland programmed
by the US&FCS to assist you in reaching your commercial goals.
- World Traders Data Report (WTDR)--provides
evaluation and background data on foreign firms.
- Single Company Promotion (SCP)--a
promotional program tailored for your product overseas provided
by the US&FCS in Ireland.Activities can include press receptions,
mailings, catering, speakers,and printing.
- Trade Opportunity Program (TOP)--trade
leads and investment opportunities are provided by U.S. Embassies
and Consulates around the world for U.S. exporters.
- Commercial News U.S.A. (CNUSA)--promotes
new U.S. products and services. A monthly illustrated publication
of goods and services that is distributed to 110,000 foreign importers
world-wise.
- Trade or Catalogue Shows and Missions-provide contact with overseas
buyers through participation in trade events and commercial programs.
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Pitfalls to Avoid When Exporting
In exporting there is no substitute
for experience. The following provides a list of 10 of the most
common pitfalls or mistakes that should serve as a warning to new
exporters to exercise special caution.
1. Not obtaining qualified export counselling.
2. Not developing a marketing plan.
3. A lack of commitment by the management to pursue exporting over
the long term.
4. Insufficient care when selecting overseas agents or distributors.
5. Not focusing on a core market and expanding in an orderly manner.
6. Neglecting export clients when domestic sales increase.
7. Not modifying products to meet cultural preferences or product
standards of other countries.
8. Failure to print labels and sales literature in the local language.
9. Not using an export management company or broker if exporting
is beyond the resources of the firm.
10. Failure to consider licensing or joint-venture arrangements.
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