The policy, the result of a thirty-day review of the procedures, rules and criteria for trade missions, has been implemented and covers all Commerce Department trade missions. The policy entitled Statement of Policy Governing Department of Commerce Overseas Trade Missions sets forth objective guidelines to ensure that all decisions regarding trade missions are based upon appropriate criteria related to the underlying public policy. The policy stipulates that relevant documentation related to trade missions will be available to the public. The policy includes an express prohibition against consideration of referrals from political parties or references to political contributions or political activities. In releasing the report, Secretary Daley noted the important role trade missions play in the Department's efforts to work with American business to promote exports.
Economic prosperity depends upon our ability to compete effectively in the global marketplace.
Export promotion, public-private partnerships and the Commerce Department's overseas trade mission program are the essential cornerstones of the Clinton Administration's National Export Strategy. These missions are structured to open markets, identify and secure export and investment opportunities for American businesses, and showcase American products, technology and expertise around the world in order to increase job opportunities for all Americans.