Highlights of the National Export Initiative (2 Years In)

Increase American Exports

President Obama called on the United States to double the number of U.S. exports in 5 years in order to support 2 million new jobs as part of the National Export Initiative.

One of the International Trade Administration's strategies to achieve this is through the New Market Exporter Initiative (NMEI), which targets Strategic Partners’ current customers who are exporting goods and services abroad in order to help them expand their reach to additional international markets.

Why?

On average, approximately fifty-eight percent (58%) of all U.S. exporters only sell to one market overseas. By focusing resources on these U.S. small- and medium-sized companies who already have knowledge of exporting, we increase the opportunity to have the largest impact.

Learn more here or quickly download this document in PDF format.

U.S. International Trade Data May 2011

According to the ITA Blog Tradeology, exports decreased by 0.5 percent in May, total exports are still up 16.4 percent compared to the same period last year.

Thank goodness.  Otherwise, the NEI would fall flat on its face.

Statement from U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke on U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services:

“While exports dipped slightly in May, exports have been growing at a strong pace overall in the first five months of 2011, up 16.4percent compared to the same period last year. We’re making progress but we still have a way to go. Accelerating job growth remains a priority for this administration and we will continue to provide our businesses with the necessary tools to compete and win globally and create more American jobs. As we move closer to reaching the president’s goal of doubling exports by 2015, the Obama administration will continue to help businesses reach the 95 percent of consumers who live outside our borders,” Locke said.

Export fact sheet here.  Illustration credit:  U.S. Foreign Trade Data (U.S. Census)

Posted by:  The Global Small Business Blog

How is the National Export Initiative Working For You?

That's the question I have for small businesses after I read this article:

Small Businesses Barely Keeping Afloat

As always, the comments baffle me.  But I am serious about my question:  Is the NEI working for small businesses?

Is it the best of times for BIG businesses and worst of times for small?  We welcome hearing from you!