FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

I. Getting Started

What is the Trade Information Center (TIC)? How do I get export assistance?

What should I consider when making the decision to begin exporting and how do I begin?

Are there sources of legal assistance for people who are new to exporting?

How can I find export financing?

II. Market Research

How do I obtain market research for a specific country or product?

Where can I obtain information on foreign markets and trade opportunities for fish and agricultural products?

Does the U.S. Federal Government have any programs to help advertise my products overseas?

Where can I find trade statistics?

How can I find out about investment practices in a certain country?

III. Trade Leads / Company Information

Does the Trade Information Center have lists of company-specific information?

How do I locate trade leads for my exporting business? How do I locate potential distributors in overseas markets?

Where can I find a list of foreign companies in a particular industry or sector?

How do I find information about a particular overseas company?

IV. Documentation / Regulations / Standards

How can I receive information on foreign regulations, standards, or certification requirements for my product?

Is there a tariff (duty) that applies to my product in a foreign country?

What is a Harmonized System (HS) classification number, the Schedule B number, and is there a difference between the two numbers?

Do I need an export license to ship my product to a particular market? How do I obtain a license?

Where can I find information on trade sanctions?

Is the NAFTA Certificate of Origin required for shipments to Mexico and Canada?

V. Other

How can I obtain information about importing products into the United States?

For More Information:

The Trade Information Center

International Trade Administration

U.S. Department of Commerce

1401 Constitution Ave., NW

Mail Stop R-TIC

Washington, DC 20230

Tel: 1-800-USA-TRAD(E) (1-800-872-8723)

Fax: (202) 482-4473