International trade is an integral part of the U.S. economy, accounting for more than one-quarter of U.S. gross domestic product and supporting more than 12 million U.S. jobs, including 1 in 5 manufacturing positions. Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) have proved to be one of the best ways to open up foreign markets to U.S. exporters.
FTAs can help your company to enter and compete more easily in the global marketplace. Trade agreements help level the international playing field and encourage foreign governments to adopt open and transparent rulemaking procedures, as well as non-discriminatory laws and regulations. FTAs help strengthen business climates by eliminating or reducing tariff rates, improving intellectual property regulations, opening government procurement opportunities, easing investment rules, and much more.
Today, the United States has FTAs with 14 countries. In 2006, trade with countries that the United States has FTAs was significantly greater than their relative share of the global economy. Although comprising 7.5 percent of global GDP (not including the United States), those FTA countries accounted for over 42 percent of U.S. exports.
For more information visit the FTA website which is designed to help you learn more about U.S. Free Trade Agreements and how they can help grow your business. Or, contact your local trade specialist for more assistance. Learn how your company can benefit from FTAs today!
Tradeagreements.gov
TradeAgreements.gov is an interagency effort by the United States Government to provide the public with the latest information on America's trade agreements. A joint effort between the Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, State, Treasury and the Office of the United States Trade Representative, this site will be regularly updated with news about existing agreements, as well as pending free trade agreements with Peru, Colombia, Panama and South Korea.
More FTA Information:
U.S. Department of State
U.S. Department of Agriculture
U.S. Trade Representative
International
Trade Administration
