Expanding the Commercial Service for a 21st Century Digital Economy

The US Department of Commerce has made it a priority to ensure that all US companies have access to the digital economy and can reach global markets. To further this goal, the Dept of Commerce, through the Commercial Service arm of the International Trade Administration, is piloting an expert network of “digital attaches” in its offices in US embassies in key markets to help US firms increase international market access, and overcome regulatory or policy challenges. The Commerce Department is making the following changes:

Assigned six Commercial Service officers, already stationed in ASEAN, Brazil, China, Japan, India and the EU, who will serve as digital trade officers. ITA currently has more than 128 commercial offices located in US Embassies and Consulates in more than 75 countries focused on leveling the playing field for US companies exporting abroad.
Digital attache responsibilities will include assistance in helping US companies increase exports, access the global online marketplace, and navigate digital economy policy challenges.

While this program is initially being launched as a pilot project, it builds upon the numerous resources the Commerce Department currently has in place to help US companies with the trade counseling, market intelligence, business matchmaking, and commercial diplomacy they need to connect with international business opportunities.