ITA History
Predecessors to the International Trade Administration (ITA) have existed since the establishment of the Department of Commerce and Labor in 1903. The Department of Commerce was established as a separate Department in 1913. Language in the Department’s organic statute, “to foster, promote and develop the foreign and domestic commerce of the United States” has served as the Department’s principle authority to promote exports since its inception.
ITA's current mission is to create prosperity by strengthening the competitiveness of U.S. industry, promoting trade and investment, and ensuring fair trade and compliance with trade laws and agreements.
ITA is organized into four units:
- The Commercial Service is your primary point of contact throughout the United States and the world. A global network of Commercial Officers can help you at every stage of the exporting process.
- Manufacturing and Services is the government's link to American industry. Industry sector specialists can help you identify trade opportunities for specific products or services.
- Market Access and Compliance keeps world markets open to your products. Country specialists can help you benefit from our trade agreements with other countries.
- Import Administration impartially enforces our trade laws, ensuring that you face a level playing field in the domestic marketplace
Related Links:
ITA Under Secretaries Past and Present
DOC Milestones
Last Updated: 8/25/15 5:46 PM
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