International Marketing

Why Consider Exporting?

Ohio companies already contribute significantly to Ohio's economy and help maintain and create local jobs by exporting $1.2 billion in food and agricultural products each year. More opportunities exist for increased Ohio food and agricultural exports for the following reasons:

Overseas Growth
Exports of consumer food products are growing three times faster than sales in the U.S. They have soared in recent years in response to consumers' growing purchasing power and lower trade barriers.

Overseas Potential
Two-thirds of total world purchasing power and 95 percent of the world's population are located outside of the United States.

Small Companies Can Be Successful Exporters
It's a popular misconception that only large companies can succeed overseas. Indeed, many small companies have found their competitive advantage lies in some form of technological or creative niche. Many have unique products that are always in demand overseas!

International Markets More Accessible
Trade Agreements have lowered many trade restrictions for U.S. products, giving U.S. exporters an unprecedented level of access to many international markets. These reductions have helped all U.S agricultural exporters, but in many instances have been particularly advantageous for exporters of value-added food and agricultural products.

Export Assistance Is Available
Many firms shy away from exporting because they don't know how or where to get started. Fortunately, the Ohio Department of Agriculture, through our membership with the Food Export Association of the Midwest USA and other export providers, can provide your company with a wide range of export assistance to help introduce you to the world of exporting.

Worldwide Economic Growth
In developing-country markets, higher incomes result in diet upgrades, with increased demand for meats, dairy products, and other high value food products. These include packaged cereals, pasta, oils, and other items used in meal preparations.

So How Can I Get Started Exporting?

Exporter Education
Exporting offers Ohio companies exciting opportunities to develop new sales but we recognize it is a complex business. The Food Export Association offers exporter education services. These interactive services provide U.S. exporters specific answers to their questions or provide a general business overview when it comes to selling in other countries.

Individual Export Counseling

The Ohio Department of Agriculture has experienced trade specialists who can advise and assist your food and agriculture company with exporting questions and cam help guide you to the many resources available for your company. If we can't answer your question, we will help you locate the people or resources that can.

Food Export Helpline

Ever needed one-on-one export assistance but didn't know where to turn? This unique service provides Ohio and other Midwestern companies with customized, individual assistance concerning a wide variety of export-related topics. Whether you have a quick question about exporting or need long-term assistance, Food Export Association's Food Export Helpline can be of service! For enrolling in this free service, our counselor can also conduct a top 25 market report for your product.

Branded Program

This cost-share funding program offers financial assistance to help Ohio food and agricultural exporters promote their products in international markets. Participants in this program receive 50 percent cost reimbursement for a variety of overseas marketing and promotional expenses.

For more information on exporting please call 1-800-IM-PROUD or visit International Markets.