Gateway to success.

At the Alabama Department of Commerce, the Office of International Trade advances the creation of quality jobs and economic growth in Alabama through international engagement.

The Office of International Trade supports Alabama’s foreign direct investment attraction efforts to heighten awareness that Alabama is a global gateway to the United States and an export platform for foreign-based investments. The office acts as a liaison for visiting foreign delegations and dignitaries and supports the Recruitment and Retention Office on export-driven projects.

We are passionate about strengthening Alabama’s international ecosystem and fostering cooperation with local, state, regional and federal trade entities to ensure a healthy climate for international business.


Making the transition to Alabama an easy one, is important. Which is why gaining access to business publications with relevant and helpful information is made easy.

The Alabama State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) Grant offers eligible Alabama small and medium-sized businesses assistance in launching or expanding export activities.


The Office of International Trade hosts trade missions and trade events to connect Alabama’s companies to promising markets around the globe.

To recognize excellence in exporting by Alabama businesses and to celebrate their international success, the Office of International Trade selects companies engaged in exporting to receive the Governor’s Trade Excellence Award in an annual ceremony. Small, medium and large exporters from across the state are eligible, and companies selected are from the manufacturing, service, education and agribusiness sectors.

The Export Alabama is a tight-knit group of trade organizations here to help your company succeed in the global marketplace. Export Alabama members offer access to services, resources and contacts to keep you competitive.

The Alabama Department of Commerce’s Office of International Trade and Export Alabama offer comprehensive support to local companies aiming to expand into international markets. It’s services include trade education, export finance assistance, identifying overseas distributors and buyers, and conducting international market research. It also organizes trade missions and shows to help Alabama businesses explore foreign market opportunities, all provided confidentially.