Kerim Allam

Dual-use exports are those materials or equipment which are defense-related, involving sensitive (e.g., military or nuclear) or non-sensitive applications, such as computers, weapons, licensing of defense services and defense (munitions) articles.

Although the Bureau of Export Administration (BXA) the primary licensing agent for dual-use exports, the Defense Trade Controls (TDC) in the Department of State has authority over defense articles and services.

Dumping occurs when a foreign producer sells a product for example in the United States at a price that is below that producer's sales price in the country of origin (home market), or at a price that is lower than the cost of production. The difference between the price (or cost) in the foreign market and the price in the U.S. market is called the dumping margin. Unless the conduct falls within the legal definition of dumping as specified in U.S. law, a foreign producer selling imports at prices below those of American products is not necessarily dumping.

The following institutions in UK can provide an advice on international trade matters:

• The Institute of Export & International Trade
• Chambers of Commerce
• International Chambers of Commerce (ICC)
• HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC)
• British International Freight Association
• Export Control Organisation (ECO)
• Tates Guide
• Government
• Bank
• Department for Business Innovation and Skills(DBIS)

Companies that export out of the United States are required to report shipment information to the Automated Export System (AES), the system that the U.S. government uses to collect data on exports. The U.S. Census Bureau uses this data, which they call electronic export information (EEI), to compile statistics on economic indicators and the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the United States. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) uses this data to ensure that exporters are following regulations and that exports do not end up in the hands of restricted parties who may pose a threat to the national security of the United States. If the exporting company or the foreign buyer is going to rely on a freight forwarder or other agent to file through AES on their behalf, they must present this agent with a written limited power of attorney or some other written authorization. AES filing information includes: Name and contact information for the USPPI, the ultimate consignee, freight forwarder and, if appropriate, intermediate consignee; Actual date of export; Method of transportation including the carrier information and the port of export; quantity, description; schedule B number, weight and value of goods; ECCN classification and export license or license exemption code; shipment reference number.

Before you go global, make sure there's a demand in other countries for your product or service. Your first step should be to contact the Trade Information Center (TIC) at the Department of Commerce, a comprehensive resource on all federal government export assistance programs. Here you can find all information concerning international trade and information on trade missions to overseas markets where you can meet with potential distributors and buyers. You can also request a package of information that includes sources for market reports and country information, a list of publications to guide you through export transactions, trade leads and information on export financing. Or, call TIC's toll-free number, to speak to an international trade specialist and get advice on sources of general market information, how to locate and use government programs, and basic export counseling.Once you've determined there's a demand for your product overseas, there are two steps most businesses take when going global. First, they establish a relationship with a business or individual in each of their targeted foreign markets, often with help from some of the resources mentioned above. Then they carefully craft a Web site to make their products and services available to their new customers. Once you've identified your target markets, you'll need to create a site that's accessible in the appropriate languages and meets the unique needs of your international customers.