If you are interested in exporting your products or services from Ontario, the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development and Trade's International Trade Branch team of knowledgeable export professionals can assist you to develop targeted and pursue export strategies for international markets. The Branch's International Marketing Consultants provide the following core programs and services :

Through one-on-one consulting, our team of international trade specialists assists small and medium-sized companies to evaluate their export readiness, identify the right markets and export opportunities for their product or services, and develop targeted market access and expansion strategies. Our trade specialists provide guidance on doing business in markets worldwide, and assist companies to qualify local representatives.

NEBS is a practical introduction to the basics of exporting to the United States. Organized in co-operation with the Canadian Consulates in Buffalo and Detroit, the two-day NEBS program combines briefings by experts with site visits to a U.S. border entry point and warehouse fulfillment facility. Participants learn about export pricing and financing; customs clearance procedures; selecting agents and distributors; warehousing and distribution; immigration considerations; banking, legal and insurance issues; and identifying new market opportunities. The Reverse NEBS seminar covers topics of interest to Ontario exporters to the U.S. in an intensive half-day format.

ITEXus is a cost-effective export development program designed to introduce export-ready IT firms to key regional IT markets in the U.S. border states. ITEXus assists Ontario IT companies to identify and meet potential customers, research distribution channels, and obtain market information. If you are a new or experienced exporter not yet selling in the U.S. border states, ITEXus is your answer.

Market specific seminars and workshops provide Ontario exporters with forums to explore the opportunities in key markets worldwide, develop knowledge of export fundamentals, and learn about successful market access strategies.

CED programs assist economic development organizations in Ontario with their initiatives to encourage local companies to expand internationally. Exporter Workshops, First Steps in Exporting seminars and conferences introduce new and experienced exporters to government and other resources, and provide practical insights into the business of exporting.

Using videoconferencing, the International Trade Branch hosts VTMs between Ontario exporters and foreign business people and market experts. VTMs offer a cost-effective means to identify new export opportunities, showcase your company, and "meet" with potential partners abroad.

The International Trade Branch introduces Ontario exporters to potential customers, distributors and decision-makers by organizing outbound missions and Ontario showcases at key international trade exhibitions. Through their participation in these programs, Ontario companies explore new market opportunities, and gain international exposure and access to key contacts in priority markets worldwide. In October 2008, Ontario's Premier led a delegation representing innovative Ontario companies on a trade mission to China to tap into new markets, build on Ontario's strong relationship with China and promote the province's environmental technologies. During the trip, Ontario firms signed agreements worth more than $600 million with Chinese companies.

Suppliers of capital goods and services benefit from the assistance of the International Trade Branch in securing international capital project opportunities. We facilitate the development of consortia, introduce key contacts at international financial institutions, and provide commercial advocacy services.

In Mexico, Brazil, Chile and Dubai (UAE), the International Trade Branch has retained ITDCs to provide in-market assistance to Ontario exporters. The ITDCs provide market information, assist in identifying potential business partners and advise on the regulatory environment and import requirements.