International trade organizations are involved in a number of aspects of international business. Whether you're interested in networking your business for international trade or getting involved in international trade advocacy, an international trade organization can help you connect with businesses that share your interest.

While some international trade associations are government bodies, other organizations that regulate international trade are nongovernmental. One of the most prominent fields of international trade to grow in recent years is the Fairtrade movement, which includes a number of trade associations that certify fair trade practices.

When researching international trade organizations, consider all of the following:

1. Use import/export forums to trade in international business networks.

2. Use federal and industry-specific trade associations.

3. Learn about governmental regulations and other international trade guidelines for international fair trade.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find an international trade organization for import/export business

Many online networks and forums exist for import/export business-to-business connections, including the Federation of International Trade Associations. Through these international trade organizations you can locate suppliers or distributors to create your own international business connections. Some offer a search of other business associations, as well as other resources for international trade.

I recommend: The Midlands International Trade Association is an example of a regional trade association, and Trade Bridge International is designed to advocate business networking with free services for small businesses of under 500 employees. The Federation of International Trade Associations is the largest source of resources for global business and offers global trade leads among other services.

Find an international trade organization on your business level

International trade organizations exist to serve multiple levels of business and government trading. Finding an international trade association on the level that suits your business needs is important for locating and forming your target business and client networks.

I recommend: The IMEX Exchange has a comprehensive database of trade associations that are industry- or region-specific, including those with very narrow to fairly broad interests. The Washington International Trade Association is a U.S.-based international trade organization on the federal level.

Get involved in fair trade through an international trade organization

The Fairtrade movement has gained considerable ground in international trade since the 1980s and sets fair trade principles for businesses and trade associations. Getting involved with an international fair trade organization can help your business get certified for meeting fair trade standards.

I recommend: The International Trade Administration governs national U.S. policies on international trade and you can use it to find official international trade regulations. The International Fair Trade Association offers an official FTO Mark for international trade organizations that abide by fair trade principles.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Determine your business's specific interest in getting involved in an international trade organization before you join. Trade associations exist to serve a wide range of needs and interests, and you may want to join more than one to get involved effectively.