How do I find the product I want?
Some importers prefer to search for products on their own. These searches can be done using online supplier databases such as the
U.S. Suppliers List*,
Export Directory of U.S. Food Distribution Companies (full-line suppliers), and
FAS Partners' Product Supplier Databases.
If you are looking for a particular brand of product or have specific ingredient requirements and having difficulty locating a supplier, your
local FAS overseas office may be able to help you with custom matchmaking.
Who are FAS partners/cooperators and what do they offer?
The American food and agriculture industry benefits from a large number of associations and organizations that support export market development. These groups, referred to as "participants" and "cooperators" receive support from FAS to conduct activities overseas such as trade missions, pavilions at trade shows and informational seminars.
A database of these organizations, including contact information, is available at
http://www.fas.usda.gov/scripts/mos/HomeOffDir.asp.
Partners and Cooperators that offer on-line databases and directories of suppliers are listed at
FAS Partners' Product Supplier Databases.
What can FAS overseas offices do for me?
Local FAS overseas offices offer information on American food, farm, seafood and forest products such as helping you find a U.S. product or supplier to meet your needs. They also organize pavilions at trade shows, promotional events such as showcase and sample shows and trade seminars. Some offices offer newsletters. To find out what services are offered, contact your local FAS overseas office.
How can I access FAS overseas office Web pages?
Some FAS overseas offices have Web pages. A list can be found at
http://www.fas.usda.gov/scriptsw/fasfield/post_homepage_list.asp.
How do I find the FAS overseas office near me?
To find an FAS overseas office use the
search engine.
What if there is not an FAS office in my country?
While FAS operates offices in many countries, some international buyers may find that there is not an FAS office in their country. In this case they have two choices:
1. Contact the FAS office in a nearby country. (To find an FAS overseas office use the search engine at
http://www.fas.usda.gov/ofso/overseas_post_directory/ovs_directory_search.asp.)
2. Contact the local U.S. Department of Commerce office. These offices can also help you find agricultural and food products. A directory of these offices can be found online at
http://www.buyusa.gov/home/worldwide_local.html.
What is FAS - The Foreign Agricultural Service?
The Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) works to improve foreign market access for U.S. products. FAS operates programs designed to build new markets and improve the competitive position of U.S. agriculture in the global marketplace.
FAS bears the primary responsibility for USDA's overseas activities -- market development, international trade agreements and negotiations, and the collection and analysis of statistics and market information. It also administers USDA's export credit guarantee and food aid programs, and helps increase income and food availability in developing nations by mobilizing expertise for agriculturally led economic growth.
What does this mean for international buyers? FAS has personnel located in more than 75 posts and coverage in excess of 130 countries. Through its network of Agricultural Counselors, Attaches and Officers (supported through a sophisticated system of international telecommunications), FAS can help international buyers find the right product or the best supplier.
For more information on FAS' mission and activities, visit
About FAS on the FAS Web site.
