NEWSLETTER - SMALL BUSINESS

Overcoming Trade Barriers in Canada and Mexico

by John M. Kolmer, NAFTA Trade Specialist

If your firm is having a problem gaining access to Mexican or Canadian markets due to perceived trade barriers, the U.S. Department of Commerce's NAFTA Compliance Team can help.

While NAFTA as succeeded in nearly doubling the United States' trade with Canada and Mexico, both the governments of Canada and Mexico have from time to time erected barriers to market access that interfere with American companies' ability to successfully export their products.

To ensure the United States' NAFTA partners comply with their treaty commitments, and to provide a venue for U.S. firms to use in seeking assistance when experiencing barriers to market access, the U.S. Department of Commerce created the NAFTA Compliance Team. A part of the International Trade Administration, the NAFTA Compliance Team monitors the compliance of Canada and Mexico to the terms of the North American Free Trade Agreement.

The team travels domestically to meet with U.S. companies in an effort develop a better understanding of the barriers that American exporters face. The team's travels to Canada and Mexico focus on directly addressing market access and compliance concerns with Customs and other governmental authorities.

The NAFTA Compliance Team's thorough comprehension and practical application of NAFTA's rules and regulations helps ensure U.S. exporters of equitable treatment and reliable market access for U.S. goods and services.

For more information about the NAFTA Compliance Team, contact the NAFTA Opportunity Center at (309) 677-3075.