Foundations for Growth: International Development
The world's largest importer and fourth-largest exporter, the United States is already engaged in active trade with the 95 percent of world consumers who live beyond its borders. With 87 percent of the world's economic growth projected to take place outside the
country during the next five years, U.S. companies of all sizes are positioned to harness the global market as a driver of their own business growth. This paper reviews the geographic, economic, legal, and political factors that businesses must consider when evaluating
potential foreign markets. In addition, it provides an analysis of the financial implications of preparing for expansion into international trade and an overview of the banking and other financial instruments available to facilitate cross-border transactions.
