Contact the country's consulate or Embassy in Washington D.C. for information concerning the country's economic and trade-related concerns. For assistance in beginning a business, use the nationwide network of business development centers established by the Small Business Administration to assist beginning entrepreneurs with the fundamentals. This site covers a range of topics including how to get started, developing a business plan, and sources of financing. The Trade Education database at this site provides information on local sources of trade education. The U.S. Government does not maintain import promotion programs such as those available to U.S. exporters.
Many countries also maintain foreign trade offices in the United States.
The U.S. Government plans to resume publishing Importing Into the United States . To obtain U.S. tariff rates for specific imported products, contact your local Customs Service office . Contact your appropriate state or local city hall regarding requirements and procedures for obtaining business permits. Industry associations generally have directories of their members. The Encyclopedia of Associations or National Trade and Professional, and the Associations of the United States , publications available in many local libraries, contain lists of industry trade associations.