International Trade

Washington State's location, diversity of trading partners, and commitment to promoting international trade are all important assets for any company planning to increase their business by taking advantage of new opportunities opening up in international markets.

Washington boasts 76 public ports, a major international airport, numerous regional airports, and a convenient and well-maintained highway infrastructure across which goods travel daily.

Unlike many other states, Washington's international markets are not concentrated in one geographic region. Although Washington has strong ties to the Pacific Rim, top markets for Washington products span the globe.

International Trade Division

The international business development managers at the Washington State Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development's International Trade Division are export specialists, each with a portfolio of industries.

The International Trade Division can provide the following services to your business:

• Grow your export sales;
• Research international markets to uncover the potential and pitfalls for your product;
• Find overseas buyers, agents, distributors, and joint venture partners through arranged meetings and trade events;
• Understand the best mechanisms to get paid and mitigate your credit risk;
• Obtain advocacy assistance for all your trade questions and issues;
• Get information to meet all your trade needs through our trade clearinghouse.

Top Ten Countries for Washington Exports in 2007

Washington's Key Sector Exports in 2007

For more information

• Visit the International Trade homepage.
• Secretary of State's office- International Trade homepage.
• For further assistance with agriculture inquiries please contact the Washington State Department of Agriculture.

Source: WISER, World Institue for Strategic Economic Research from the U.S. Census Bureau Foreign Trade Division. Updated 2008.