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The U.S.–Colombia Free Trade Agreement picture_as_pdf

Executive Briefing: The U.S.–Colombia Free Trade Agreement has received significant attention in the U.S. news media throughout the past decade. Therefore, it is important to understand what the U.S.–Colombia agreement is designed to do, why U.S. businesses support it, why there is opposition to it, and how it relates to other trade agreements involving the U.S. and other Latin American countries. Opens in PDF. 

Government Resources

Main Government Page
Statistics Office
Commerce Ministry
Export Promotion Agency
Investment Promotion Agency

Company Directories

Hoover's, a Dun & Bradstreet company, offers a search engine for U.S. companies. Users can search for these companies by name, employer, or industry. The site includes detailed information about companies, including history, industry outlooks, and publications. Basic information is provided free of charge, but some features are fee-based.

This Industrial Quick Search Manufacturer Directory contains industrial suppliers, manufacturers, and distributors serving the United States. Users can either use a search function or find information based on industry or category.

ThomasNet Product Sourcing is a useful search engine powered by a classification system designed for finding parts, components, and products from companies across the United States. Users of this site can search for product suppliers based on detailed product specifications and attributes. 

Trade Shows

Events in America provides extensive details on thousands of trade shows, conventions, meetings, seminars, and conferences in the United States and Canada. Basic information is provided free of charge. However, full access to the website's services requires a membership, which has an annual cost.

The Informa Connect website offers information, events, and training for topics such as Finance, Automotive, Education, and Agriculture. The website also offers an opportunity to receive a quote for marketing solutions services.

News Sites

The online edition of Bloomberg Business News includes detailed news on specific regions, markets, economies, industries, and worldwide updates affecting business in the United States.

This online version of the publication Business Week provides the user with news specific to the United States as well as business news in Asia and Europe. The Companies & Industries section highlights industry news, and the Global Economics section discusses business relations between the U.S. and other countries. Business Week online offers added value through a weekly email feature that users can sign up for.

Fortune is a global business magazine providing business, investment, career, management, and small business news and information. This online version includes stories from the publication itself as well as research and ranked lists such as the Global 500 or Fortune 500. The information on the site is available free of charge.

The home page of the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) offers links to WSJ's web offerings, including a U.S. specific news section, as well as to its services. The WSJ offers some articles for free, but a paid subscription is required to access select content.

Regulatory Agency Sites

The U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) is an independent agency that investigates chemical accidents throughout the country and makes recommendations to prevent them from occurring in the future. The CSB website contains information about its responsibilities, investigations, and recent news.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) promote health, prevent diseases, injury and disability, and prepare for new health threats in the United States. The site provides information about diseases and conditions, healthy living, and traveler's health. In addition, the CDC site provides information regarding new studies and results, emergency preparedness, and various outbreaks.

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) oversees and regulates the futures sector of the United States financial services industry. The site contains press releases, market reports, laws, regulations, and information on industry oversight and consumer protection.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) protects the public by regulating the production of consumer products. The site includes information on recalls, safety education, regulations, and laws and standards. In addition, the site provides information about research and statistics, business and manufacturing, and recent news. 

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides leadership on food, agriculture, natural resources, and related issues based on public policy, science, and efficient management. This website contains links to the various functions of the USDA in the food and beverage and agricultural industries.

The United States Department of Commerce (DOC) provides the information and tools to maximize U.S. competitiveness and enable economic growth for American industries, workers, and consumers through proper regulation. The DOC website provides information on current news topics, departments within the commerce organization, and economic analyses.

The goal of the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) is to provide the military forces needed to deter war and protect the country's security. The main priorities of the DOD are the protection of the country, its citizens, and its resources. The site provides news and articles on the top issues facing the Department of Defense and links to all other DOD websites.

The Department of Education (ED) promotes educational excellence and equal access to schooling. The department establishes policies on federal financial aid for education, monitors these funds, and collects data on US schools. Its site provides in-depth coverage of the types of student loans and grants available for students pursuing an education at a post-secondary institution. Users may also access a library containing laws related to education as well as data and findings from research done by the ED.

The United States Department of Energy regulates and oversees the energy industry to meet energy and environmental needs. The site contains sections about public services provided by the department, science and innovation, and saving energy. On the homepage, users can find a blog and a library of news, which provide recent information on advances in energy and the environment.

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) hosts programs that provide equitable treatment of beneficiaries and enable the collection of national health data. HHS conducts research, studies food and drug safety, and offers grants. The HHS website provides users with news related to the healthcare industry as well as information about prevention, regulations, and how to be prepared for a potential public health emergency.

The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has a vital mission to secure the nation from potential threats it faces. The duties of the department are wide-ranging and include aviation and border security, emergency response, and chemical facility inspection. On the site, users can browse topics related to homeland security, find ways to get involved and search for information on how to carry out specific tasks, including becoming a citizen, getting a green card, and moving to the US.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) works to regulate and strengthen the national housing market. Information is included on different housing topics for different audiences, including home buyers, homeowners, and landlords. In addition, the site provides information by states, topic areas, and additional resources.

The United States Department of Labor (DOL) implements policies and regulations that affect the labor force in the United States. The DOL site provides information on several topics, such as health plans and benefits, hiring, labor relations, leave benefits, and unemployment information. In addition, the site provides links to the various agencies that are part of the department, news updates, and various blog posts.

The Department of the Treasury is charged with the oversight and regulation of the use of public finances in the United States' financial services industry. The site contains information on Treasury policies and services as well as links to several additional resources.

The United States Department of Transportation (DOT) aims to provide all US citizens with a fast, safe, and efficient transportation system. This website provides information about the department and its activities, as well as several resources for individuals, partners, and government.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) protects human health and the environment by developing regulations, giving grants, studying environmental issues, and teaching people about the environment. The EPA ensures that all Americans are protected from health risks and partakes in national efforts to reduce environmental risks. On this site, you can learn about the laws and regulations that protect the environment as well as potential risks that are of interest to the EPA.

The primary goal of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is to ensure safety and efficiency in the aviation industry within the United States. The resource provides information regarding aircraft, airports, and air traffic. In addition, the resource provides information about regulations and policies, licenses and certificates, and data and research.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulates interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable. The FCC promotes competition, innovation, and investment in telecommunications services. They also revise media regulations to account for new technologies and innovations.

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) oversees and regulates the banking sector of the financial services industry in the United States. This site contains information on regulation and consumer protection, as well as industry analysis and case studies.

The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) is an independent, non-profit organization responsible for the oversight and regulation of the capital markets segment of the financial services industry in the United States. The site contains information on regulation, compliance, and education for both industry professionals and investors.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) protects public health by assuring the safety, efficacy, and security of human and veterinary drugs, biological products, medical devices, the nation’s food supply, cosmetics, and products that emit radiation. FDA is also responsible for advancing public health by helping to speed innovations that make medicines safer, more effective, and more affordable.

The Department of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS) oversees legislation on public health, public welfare, and environmental health in Guam, a territory of the United States of America. The site contains department information and provides regular announcements and press releases relating to its legislative oversight.

The United States National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) conducts its work in the four principal organizations of aeronautics, human exploration and operations, science, and space technology. All of these missions are centered around the exploration of the Earth and the solar system beyond. On the site, there are resources for the public, students, educators, and the media.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) promotes the progress of science, advances national health, prosperity, and welfare, and secures national defense. NSF funds research conducted by universities and supports all fundamental science and engineering fields. Users can read about recent discoveries, news, statistics, and publications.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) was created to advance transportation safety in the United States. The NTSB investigates the causes of transportation accidents and recommends new technologies or policies to ensure the accidents do not recur. The NTSB also coordinates Federal assistance to families of aviation accident victims.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OHSA) is an organization within the United States Department of Labor. This site lists all the regulations the Occupational Safety and Health Administration oversees regarding the United States' labor force. There is also a list of relevant data and statistics, training information, publications, and a section for workers to learn their rights in the workplace.

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is responsible for overseeing and regulating the securities sector of the financial services industry in the United States. The site contains information on regulation, enforcement, and education. Company filing information and recent news are features also available on the site.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) strives to maintain the security of public travel in the United States. The TSA aims to eliminate threats in transportation by developing technologies and implementing safeguards to ensure the safe movement of people and commerce. The site contains information about travel rules and regulations, as well as recent news and press releases.

Other Resources

The American Association of Exporters and Importers (AAEI) acts as a liaison between United States companies, Congress, and executive agencies. AAEI works with customs managers on regulatory and policy initiatives that affect the efficiency and profitability of U.S. companies involved in international trade. The website has trade job postings, news, and events sections. The website provides links to services such as a career center, which allows users to seek jobs in the trade industry, and a library of recommended documents to ensure adherence to regulatory trade requirements.

AnnualReports.com provides the most recent annual reports for most public companies within the United States. Users can search and browse reports by exchange type, industry, sector, or alphabetically.

This resource contains current and archived releases for all the U.S. economic indicators, as well as an economic indicator calendar for when the next release will occur. The information can be viewed as an Excel document, a PDF, a chart, or it can be downloaded.

The India China and America (ICA) Institute is a non-profit organization providing industry-focused research, education, and strategy recommendations on the market impact of China, India, and the United States. This site provides a multitude of knowledge-based services, including research opportunities, working papers, and other publications covering issues affecting the economies of China, India, and the U.S.

Powered by the National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America, Inc. (NCBFAA), this page provides useful links to associations, government agencies, and international trade agencies of freight forwarders within as well as outside the United States, including the Canadian International Freight Forwarding Association (CIFFA) and the Boston Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders Association.

The purpose of the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) is to develop and coordinate U.S. international trade, commodity, and direct investment policy, as well as oversee negotiations with other countries. The site offers detailed information on USTR’s involvement in different regions worldwide, information on trade agreements, a blog on current topics, and a news feed.

Located in the heart of Washington, DC, the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center is the first and only federal building devoted to both government and private use. The building brings together a wide variety of trade services and dining opportunities and hosts prominent meetings and conferences. TradeWinds, the building’s free official newsletter, provides its readers not only with news and updates on international trade relations but also information about upcoming programs and events.

Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) is a non-profit organization sponsored by the U.S. Small Business Administration. SCORE members are retired or working executives with in-depth expertise in a wide spectrum of businesses nationwide. The site offers information on starting, growing, managing, and financing your business. SCORE provides free and confidential counseling to small-business owners and those interested in starting businesses.

The Global Business Alliance (GBA) formerly known as the Organization for International Investment (OFII) is a non-profit business association that works to make the United States a desirable location for global investment. The GBA website provides insourcing statistics and information on policy issues affecting the role of U.S. subsidiaries abroad. The GBA also covers topics such as global investment, taxes, and regulatory affairs. Users can sign up for a free e-newsletter which provides biweekly bulletins capturing recent foreign direct investment news in the United States. 

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce represents more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions focusing on advancing human progress through economic, political, and social systems. This site offers information on enterprises, services, recent issues, and media articles. There are resources providing details on research, statistics, lists of associations, and local chambers.

The US-China Business Council (USCBC) is a nonprofit organization consisting of hundreds of American companies that regularly engage in business with China. The goal of the USCBC is to expand the relationship between the U.S. and China to stimulate the economies of both countries. Users of the USCBC website can find many economic reports, resources, and information about advocacy on the site, as well as upcoming USCBC events and press releases. 

Powered by the United States Department of Commerce, TradeStats Express (TSE) provides valuable trade data for the United States on national and regional levels. The site provides data on global patterns of U.S. merchandise trade, contains product profiles within selected markets, and highlights trade levels between the U.S. and its trade partners.

Supported by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the Global Innovation Policy Center (GIPC) aims to provide the public with in-depth information regarding how intellectual property (IP) affects the business climate within the United States and global communities. The resource includes features on how IP creates jobs in the U.S., a research database on IP topics, initiatives to further protect IP via increased enforcement in international trade and online, and the latest news and tweets regarding IP advancements encouraging economic growth.  

The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) is America’s development finance institution. DFC partners with the private sector to finance solutions to the most critical challenges facing today's developing world.

Established by the U.S. Government, the United States Census Bureau provides information and statistics on global topics such as people and households, business and industry, geography, and special topics, including hurricane data and emergency preparedness. Recent economic indicators are available to users on the homepage. An annual capital expenditures survey is also available on the site.

The United States Council for International Business (USCIB) has built a global network of industry affiliations to shape international regulation and expand market access for U.S. products and services. The site offers business services, terms and seminars, international networking opportunities, and policy advocacy. Full access to services requires a paid membership.

The United States Customs and Border Protection (USCBP) provides a vast amount of information pertaining to border control and customs regulations. Topics include recent news on border control, fact sheets on the border and trade, resources on border security, including anti-terrorism initiatives and international port security, and various links to information and standards on imports and exports.

The U.S. Department of State is the lead U.S. foreign affairs agency responsible for implementing the President's foreign policies. Information on countries, current political situations, treaties between the U.S. and foreign countries, and detailed information on the U.S. foreign policy for each country is provided. Reports on most countries include country commercial guides, background notes, and reports on economic and trade policies.

Provided by the United States Department of The Treasury, the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) contains links to various sanction programs of the United States. These sanction programs are country- and topic-based, such as Cuba and anti-terrorism sanctions. The page also provides links to OFAC news and guidance.

The United States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) promotes economic development and U.S. commercial interests in developing and middle-income countries. Information on planning activities and projects by region, resources regarding working with the USTDA, news and events, and feasibility studies are available.

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) supports research to improve the quality and safety of healthcare to help people make more informed healthcare decisions. The AHRQ provides easy access to information for United States citizens and healthcare providers, as well as research tools and data for those in the healthcare industry.

Provided by the United States Department of Commerce, the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) provides a variety of data and information about U.S. economic accounts regionally, nationally, and internationally. Additional information regarding industry and integrated accounts is also detailed on the website. An interactive data page is also available which allows users to search for specific statistics by topic and year.

Powered by the United States Department of Commerce, the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) provides the latest guidelines and policies regarding export control, export licensing, and re-exports. Links to related organizations, such as the Department of the Treasury and the Office of Foreign Assets Control, are also listed. The site additionally provides information on current BIS initiatives.

The official website of the United States Court of International Trade provides an introduction to the court, information about attorneys of the court, electronic case files, and rules and forms. In addition, the site provides information regarding trade adjustment assistance.

The state fact sheets, provided by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Economic Research Service, offer information in several categories for every state in the United States. Some categories included are population, income, education, employment, farm characteristics and financial indicators, and top commodities and exports.

The U.S. Bureau of Industry and Security provides downloadable files regarding information on the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). These files are broken down by specific exporting categories and products in the United States. Access to the official Export Administration Regulations can also be obtained on this site. In addition, the site offers comprehensive information about other regulations, licensing, enforcement, compliance and training, and policy guidance.

The Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) is the official export credit agency of the United States. EXIM's mission is to assist in financing the export of U.S. goods and services to international markets. It provides a broad range of financial services and helps medium and small companies by assuming credit and country risks. The website features news releases, sponsored trade and finance events, numerous online tools, and a section dedicated to small businesses.

Export-U is a free export training website funded by the U.S. Department of Commerce. This training site helps small businesses in America grow their sales by conducting international business. Various webinars and training tools are offered to help small businesses prepare for international business operations. A useful links page is also provided. Free registration is required to access the export training tools.

Powered by the United States government, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) provides information for consumers and businesses. Resources include current regulations, antitrust laws pertaining to international mergers, information on business publications, and procurement opportunities.

FoodSafety.gov is a gateway website that provides links to selected United States government food-safety related information. Maintained by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the site provides recent recalls and alerts, tips to keep food safe, risk information, and food poisoning information. 

The United State's International Trade Commission (USITC) Interactive Tariff and Trade DataWeb provides international trade statistics and U.S. tariff data to the public, free of charge. Other useful information available through this resource includes U.S. import statistics, export statistics, tariffs, future tariffs, and tariff preference information. In addition, the site provides information by classification systems and trade data reports. A free registration is required in order to access the data.

The United States International Trade Data System (ITDS) program assists participating government agencies in identifying, documenting, and improving their business operations. This site also provides reports on various issues regarding trade and government news in PDF format.

Mapping the Nation is a United States resource providing an interactive map with each state's economic indicators and global data points. The map aids users in understanding the global connections within their state or county. Education and demographic data are also provided on the map. Infographics is another featured section on this site, providing global-focused data and information in a visual format.

The official statistics website of the U.S. Agricultural Department provides not only statistical information regarding U.S. agriculture but also information on the U.S. economy, demographics, and environment. It also provides a search engine allowing readers to find information about a specific state or county.

The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) focuses on enhancing the competitiveness of manufacturers by shaping a legislative and regulatory environment. The institute has news articles, manufacturing indicators, information on trade deficits, as well as global and state level data. In addition, NAM provides synopses on various issues ranging from human resources to legislation to trade and energy.

Notify U.S. is a free, web-based e-mail registration service that offers U.S. citizens, industries, and organizations an opportunity to review and comment on proposed foreign technical regulations that can affect their businesses and their access to international markets. It is run by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), which is a part of the U.S. Department of Commerce. The site's purpose is to provide users with updates on World Trade Organization agreements relating to technical barriers to trade. Users must register with the site and be either a U.S. citizen or part of a U.S. organization or industry.

The Office of Trade Policy & Analysis (TP&A) is an office of Industry & Analysis within the International Trade Administration. The Office provides information, including data, analysis, and statistics related to trade and industry within the United States. The Office of Trade Policy & Analysis also provides recommendations on policy and other issues affecting the US in a global setting. The "browse by subject" section, located on the left side of the page, helps guide users in their search for trade data.

Established by the United States Government, the Small Business Administration's (SBA) mission is to maintain and strengthen the nation's economy by aiding, counseling, assisting, and protecting the interests of small businesses. SBA helps small businesses by providing information on starting operations, financing, managing business opportunities, and implementing disaster recovery plans. A Learning Center is available on the site and contains numerous online training and video resources as well as a chat forum for SBA topics.

The Small Business Exporters Association (SBEA) is a trade advocacy networking organization supporting small and medium-sized US business exporters. SBEA makes government leaders aware of the needs of exporters and shows them how they can be more effective in addressing issues of concern to small and mid-sized exporters. Membership is required to access many of the site's features.

The primary responsibility of the Advocacy Center is to promote U.S. exports and help create and retain U.S. jobs by coordinating strong U.S. government support to large, medium-sized, and small companies competing for international opportunities. The government group oversees resources from 19 U.S. government agencies in the Trade Promotion Coordinating Committee to ensure that U.S. goods and services sales have the best possible prospects overseas. The site provides news articles on the Advocacy Center and its program. Registration is optional; however, registering on the Export.gov community is used to contact members regarding specific trade opportunities, trade events, or export-related information of particular interest.

Provided by the U.S. Department of State, the Bureau of Consular Affairs offers information on traveling abroad for U.S. citizens and information for those traveling to the U.S. The site allows users to learn about specific destinations by searching either countries or areas and provides information about various alerts and warnings.

The Conference Board's leading cycle index plays a prominent role in forecasting business cycles, other leading indicators, the associated coincident and lagging indexes, and over 200 other important economic series. The site also describes the indicators' composite index methodology and guides on using economic data. Most of the information can only be accessed through a fee-based subscription.

The Office of Trade Agreements Negotiation and Compliance (TANC) helps to ensure that trade agreements function for both American exporters and importers through its Trade Agreements Compliance Program (TAC). The site contains background information on trade barriers, an overview of the office, and a listing of current trade agreements.

The Trade Finance Guide, provided by the U.S. International Trade Administration, is designed to help U.S. companies learn the basics of trade finance. Individual chapters offer information on financing techniques from open accounts, to forfaiting, to government assisted foreign-buyer financing. The guide is available in PDF as a complete document and as individual chapters.

Detailed information on U.S. and international energy matters (including a global energy outlook annual report), historical and current data, country reports on energy sectors, mailing lists on energy issues, and information on various fuel groups are available from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). 

The United States-Mexico Chamber of Commerce (USMCOC) was established in 1973 to promote trade and investment among businesses in both countries. The website includes information on upcoming USMCOC events, membership, and programs. In addition, the site also provides access to Alliance Magazine, a quarterly magazine published by USMCOC, and recent news.

With USA Trade Online, users can access current and cumulative U.S. export and import data for over 9,000 export commodities and 17,000 import commodities. USA Trade Online provides trade statistics using the Harmonized System up to the 10-digit level and the North American Industry Classification System commodity classification codes up to the 6-digit level. A free subscription is required to access most features of this site.

Industry Resources

Focusing on the competition of manufacturers in the United States, Manufacturing.gov provides information on recent publications and additional resources highlighting the National Network for Manufacturing Innovation, also known as Manufacturing USA. This resource offers information about manufacturing initiatives, funding, news, and trade partners.

The Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI) develops policy on legislative and regulatory issues facing the nuclear energy industry and provides a forum to resolve technical and business issues for the industry. The site includes information about issues and policies regarding nuclear energy, a knowledge center regarding nuclear energy, and recent news.

ThomasNet Product Sourcing is a useful search engine powered by a classification system designed for finding parts, components, and products from companies across the United States. Users of this site can search for product suppliers based on detailed product specifications and attributes.