The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) announced today a partnership with the U.S. Department of Commerce’s U.S. Foreign and Commercial Service (USF&CS) to create a formalized program that allows NMMA members improved access to international trade resources offered by the U.S. Federal Government. The New Market Export Initiative (NMEI) was developed to assist manufacturers as they expand their export sales of manufactured goods. NMMA is participating as a partner, allowing NMMA members access to special resources. The program was announced during the American Boating Congress general session by NMMA President Thom Dammrich and Under Secretary for International Trade Francisco Sánchez.

A uniquely American manufacturing industry, the U.S. recreational boating industry has been successful in selling to international markets. Since 2007, there has been a positive balance in U.S. trade of recreational boats and marine engines with the balance totaling $573 million in 2010. In fact, boats comprised an average 70 percent of total marine exports in value and an average 60 percent of total marine imports in value.

Through the NMEI program, NMMA’s members now have access to help developing contacts for business in foreign markets including distributors, customers, and service providers as well as help securing export financing, guarantees, and credit insurance. Additionally, assistance is available for members on how to comply with regulatory and documentation requirements. Some of the services are available at no charge, while others that are tailored to your company’s specific needs are available for a fee.

Thom Dammrich says of the program, “It is increasingly important to make marine manufacturing a global initiative. The NMEI program will give our members the tools they need to be successful outside U.S. borders and help us all continue in our quest to make recreational boating the preferred choice in recreation.”

To begin using these services, enter the web portal created specifically for NMMA members to register and complete a brief questionnaire that will help USF&CS staff understand your business and business needs. Click here to access the web portal: http://export.gov/nmma/

A USF&CS staff person will serve as direct liaison between your company and the NMEI services, helping you identify and make use of resources that best fit your needs.