Whether you are importing raw materials, exporting products, or conducting e-commerce, there is a wealth of local, state, and federal expertise that will help you understand the markets, cultures, customs, and international laws.

General Assistance

A good place to start exploring your potential and planning for a successful venture into a global market is with the following resources.

>> Butte College Center for International Trade Development
Free or low-cost programs and services to assist local companies plan for and conduct international trade, marketing, prepare documents, and access other resources.

>> U.S. Government Export Portal
U.S. Department of Commerce portal to federal agencies that offer export assistance, programs, and services. Find answers, learn about doing business overseas, and access market data, financing resources, legal and other information.

>> State of California Business Portal
The State of California also offers a website designed to provide both the experienced and novice gain access to information and assistance for importing and exporting products.

Reaching International Markets

Take advantage of public and private resources to gain access to new markets, critical information, and targeted marketing services.

>> U.S. Commercial Service
Reach trade specialists throughout the U.S. and overseas, learn about trade events that can help you promote your products overseas, obtain market research, find buyers and distributors, participate in trade missions, develop sales and distribution channels, and more.

>> Northern California World Trade Center
The NorCal WTC and other California World Trade Centers offer counseling, educational seminars, networking opportunities, trade missions, and more.

>> California Chamber of Commerce
Contacts and resources to help you navigate international trade, including a direct link to all the California and World Seaports.

Regulatory Compliance

Tools and resources to help you protect your business, assets, and intellectual property.

>> International Trade Administration
Promotes fair trade throughout the world, offers programs and assistance that can help you reduce the risk of doing business internationally, comply with trade laws, and protect your intellectual property.

>> Federal Trade Commission
Want to claim your product is “Made in the USA?” Check here for guidance on how to comply with U.S. Origin claims and standards.

Other Resources

>> California Small Business Association
General information, business opportunities and special events related to exporting.

>> Federation of International Trade Associations
A searchable database of international trade resources.

>> U.S. Small Business Administration
Office of International Trade provides export working capital and international trade loans to businesses involved in or planning international trade.

>> Ex-Im Bank
The Export-Import Bank of the United States is an independent federal government agency and the official export credit agency of the United States.

>> California International Business Association
International business directory for international trade opportunities with California; originally an arm of the California Trade & Commerce Agency.

>> Foreign Trade Zone – Chico
Foreign trade zones provide relief from inverted tariffs, duty exemption on re-exports, and eliminate duty on waste, scrap, and yield loss. Manufacturers at the Chico Airport Business Park may be eligible to apply for foreign trade zone status.