An explanation of the U.S. Commercial Service's role overseas. This information is taken from "A Basic Guide to Exporting" provided by the U.S. Commercial Service to assist U.S. companies in exporting.
Last Published: 10/20/2016
U.S. Commercial Service Overseas Posts
Much of the information about trends and actual trade leads in foreign countries is gathered on-site by the officers and U.S. Commercial Service country specialists.

Foreign Service Officers and the locally engaged staff have a personal understanding of local market conditions and business practices in the countries in which they work. U.S. Commercial Service officers work in more than 150 offices located in more than 75 countries. They provide a range of services to help companies sell in foreign markets, such as:
  • Background information on  foreign companies
  • Agent-distributor locator services
  • Market research
  • Due diligence on distributors and direct buyers
  • Business communication in a  cultural context
  • Business counseling on entry strategies, pricing, and promotion
  • Appointments with key buyers and government officials
  • Representation on behalf of companies adversely affected by trade barriers
  • Support at international and domestic trade shows