Celebrating World Trade

The first World Trade Week was officially proclaimed by President Franklin Roosevelt as a week of national observance to recognize the importance of international commerce to our economy and way of life.

Today, the symbolism of World Trade Week is more relevant than ever, as more than 70 percent of the world's purchasing power--and 95 percent of its consumers--are outside of the United States, creating opportunity for American businesses and overseas customers alike, while helping people around the world improve their quality of life. The popularity of World Trade Week continues to grow, and in many parts of the world, encompasses the entire month of May, and is celebrated by businesses, associations and governments.

The arrival of World Trade Month is an opportune time to highlight the benefits of trade to “Main Street” America. "A bed and breakfast that thrives on foreign tourists, a local flower shop that imports Colombian roses, and the neighborhood supermarket are just a few of the many examples of how trade impacts our lives in positive ways," said Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez in his 2008 World Trade Week Proclamation. Through its network of offices, Commerce will be supporting many local events across the country to help bring home the positive benefits of trade.

The U.S. Commerce Department continues to promote free and fair trade, with a special focus this year on Free Trade Agreements. This year’s trade agenda includes the pending Colombia, Korea, and Panama Free Trade Agreements.