The ITC, an independent, nonpartisan, factfinding federal agency, has recast the publication in a more concise web-based format that focuses more on reasons for key shifts in trade, provides more sector detail, and can be searched by country or commodity sector, according to each user's individual interests.

Shifts in U.S. Merchandise Trade 2003 can be accessed at: http://www.usitc.gov/tradeshifts/default.htm.

Users will find a comprehensive review of U.S. trade performance in 2003, focusing on changes in U.S. exports, imports, and trade balances of key natural resource, agricultural, and manufacturing industries, as well as changes in U.S. bilateral/multilateral trade with major partners. For example, the ITC reports that although the U.S. trade deficit with China increased by more than with any other country in 2003, trade with China in agricultural products recorded a trade surplus, increasing by $1.1 billion to reach $3.8 billion that year.

Also available are profiles of the U.S. industry and market for over 250 industry/commodity groups and subgroups, offering data for 1999-2003 on domestic consumption, production, employment, trade, and import penetration. The ITC's Shifts in U.S. Merchandise Trade site also includes links to other ITC research and resources, providing users with quick access to analyses and data, as well as links to other government organizations that have related information.

Shifts in U.S. Merchandise Trade 2003 is also available as a CD-ROM. Users can obtain the CD-ROM version through the "Request CD-ROM" link on the web site or by requesting USITC publication 3714 (July 2004) by calling 202-205-1809 or by writing to the Secretary, U.S. International Trade Commission, 500 E Street, SW, Washington, DC 20436. Requests may also be faxed to 202-205-2104.