• China Accelerator program
  This program provides financial assistance to help Washington State companies expand their sales in China. Download a PDF document about the Washington China Accelerator program or contact one of our international trade staff members for additional information.

• Export Voucher program
  The Export Voucher program is a key element of the Export Washington initiative. Eligible small businesses can apply for reimbursement of up to $5,000 for pre-approved expenses related to increasing the company’s export sales: such as training, marketing campaigns, trade show and trade mission expenses, business travel, and other pre-approved business expenses. Download the Guidelines and Application, or contact Danielle Ellingston at danielle.ellingston@commerce.wa.gov or 206-256-6143 for more information.

• Certificates of Free Sale
  To obtain a Certificate of Free Sale from the Washington State Department of Commerce, contact Julie Bennion at julie.bennion@commerce.wa.gov or 206-256-6132.

• Export Business Planner
  The SBA Export Business Planner is a free, customizable tool for small business owners who are exploring exporting.

• Export Controls
  Read a basic explanation of U.S. export control requirements. (PDF - 44 KB)

• Export Documents, Licenses, and Requirements
  Find a variety of informational topics on export requirements from the U.S. Customs Agency.

• Export Finance Assistance Center of Washington
  Get help understanding and finding export financing for your business.

• Loan Programs for Exporters
  The Small Business Jobs Act 2010 increased SBA loan limits. In the first week of the Jobs Act, SBA provided nearly 2,000 loans totaling nearly $1 billion in lending support.

• North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)
  Download information about exporting under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

• U.S. Trade Delegations
  View upcoming trade missions from the U.S. Department of Commerce.

• Importation of Commercial Samples

An informed compliance publication of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency. Includes duty free provisions and carnets, among other topics. Revised October 2003.

• Internet Purchases

The Internet has made it easy to find and purchase items from almost anywhere in the world. However, getting a foreign-bough item successfully delivered to the United States may be much more complicated.  

• Tips for New Importers

In order to avoid potential problems in the clearance of your merchandise, familiarize yourself with U.S. Customs policies and procedures prior to actually importing/exporting your goods. 

• US Commercial Service Market Research

• CIA World Factbook

• FAS and USDA Market Research Resources

• Trade Statistics

• Contact a Commerce International Trade Specialists for customized export counseling