International Trade Update

April 2008

(Download complete issue in PDF format.)

In this issue:

Bilateral Accords and U.S. Trade with the Middle East: A Track Record of Success
The United States has bilateral free trade agreements with five countries in the Middle East. U.S. exports to those five countries account for 38 percent of all trade to the region and show the value of such instruments in expanding U.S. exports.

Second Americas Competitiveness Forum to Convene in August
The Department of Commerce is moving ahead with plans for the Americas Competitiveness Forum 2008, an event designed to improve trade relationships and to create prosperity throughout the Americas.

Research and Development Priorities for U.S. Manufacturing: A Look into the Future
To remain competitive in the global economy, U.S. manufacturers will need to focus their research and development efforts in areas that are most likely to deliver economic benefits. A recent report identifies three of those critical areas.

Short Takes—News from the International Trade Administration:

• Web Site Offers Information on Sustainable Manufacturing Initiative
• Manufacturing Workshop Looks to Industry Needs of 2040
• Foreign Delegations Visit Consumer Electronics Show

International Trade Calendar

Featured Trade Event: World Trade Week 2008

International Trade Update is published monthly by the Office of Public Affairs of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration. A subscription service is available to receive notification by e-mail when new issues are published.

Material in this newsletter may be reproduced unless otherwise noted. When reprinting, please credit the U.S. Department of Commerce, International Trade Administration.