Are you export ready and what to do if you are?

Last year the value of exports set a record high of $2.34 trillion. California’s contribution to 2014’s export value was $173.4 billion. The Los Angeles, Long Beach and Anaheim metropolitan area is responsible for over 40% of California’s total export value.

Hence, the questions is, are you ready to take advantage of the current export momentum?

Global Presence

Can overseas companies find your business online? Perception is reality, a phrase that echoes true in every part of the world. The Internet is a valuable research tool, as such interested investors and buyers need to find your company information without hassle. Besides, being hard to find does not mean exclusivity.

Increase your presence

Don’t Forget the Basics

Without a solid foundation your business may experience hardships. Create a business plan, register your company, obtain licenses, develop a marketing strategy, seek legal counseling and learn the basics of exporting. Additionally, learn about free trade agreements, and more specifically the Trans-Pacific Partnership and consider how these initiatives may impact the future of your global business.

Interesting Facts – Get more information here.

  • California’s top five export markets are Mexico, Canada, China, Japan and Korea.
  • 2 Billion Consumers are expected to live in the Asia-Pacific region by 2030.

Ready to Export?

If your company has a solid global business strategy and is prepared to export, attending major international trade show in your industry that takes advantage of the U.S Commercial Service’s unique in-country resources and ability to introduce exporters to overseas distributors, buyers and investors is right move. Don’t forget to check out our tips for working a trade show.

For Orange County companies that focus on manufacturing technology, innovation, R&D, and cutting edge manufacturing solutions, Hannover Messe 2016 is one of the biggest opportunities for getting unmatched international exposure. Do not miss a chance to reach a global audience, connect with over 200,000 attendees or network with more than 100 business delegations. Register here if your company is ready to take the next step.

Derrick Small is a Communications Specialist with the U.S. Commercial Service’s Pacific South Network. Follow Us on Twitter.

Looking to start or grow your business?

We at the Orange County Inland Empire SBDC, are here to help you with every aspect of your business to help it grow and become successful.
Give us a call at 1-800-616-7232 or schedule a quick, 15-minute intake appointment at ociesbdc.org/consultation to see how we can help you start, grow, and succeed.

Are you export ready and what to do if you are?

Mike Daniel is the network director of the Orange County Inland Empire SBDC Network, which assists aspiring entrepreneurs and current business owners throughout Orange, San Bernardino and Riverside counties. Mike was formerly the director of the SBDC office at Long Beach City College. As business owner and entrepreneur himself, he started his career as the owner of a Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory location in Manhattan Beach and went on to open a second location in Long Beach in 2001. In 2007, Mike sold the Manhattan Beach store for an above-market offer then invested in several additional locations as a minority shareholder. Mike further expanded his candy empire with venture located in Shoreline Village in Long Beach called Sugar Daddies Sweet Shoppe, based on fill-it yourself candy options.

Mike has a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from California State University, Fullerton.