Learning about potential clients Learning about potential clients
There are many ways for a U.S. company to research a foreign company before conducting any formal business. By using available resources, your company can save time and money.
| There are many ways to track and utilize resources. Your local U.S. Commercial Service office can work with you to find a solution that works for your company. |
Business Libraries
Several private-sector publications list and qualify international companies. There are also many directories devoted to specific regions and countries.International Banks
Bankers have access to vast amounts of information on foreign companies and are usually very willing to assist corporate customers.Foreign Embassies
Foreign embassies are located in Washington, DC, and some have consulates in other major U.S. cities. The commercial (business) sections of most foreign embassies have directories of companies located in their countries.Sources of Credit Information
Credit information on foreign companies is available from many private-sector sources and from the U.S. Commercial Service. For help in identifying sources of credit information, contact your nearest U.S. Commercial Service office.
U.S. Commercial Service Offices
Experienced U.S. Commercial Service personnel—Commercial Officers and their local staff—can prepare International Company Profiles or help with background reports on foreign companies.The Internet
You can often find company information through your favorite search engine. However, pay attention to the sources of the information you find, because search engine results may not always be recent or accurate.