International Trade in Bellevue

Bellevue businesses engage in a considerable and growing amount of international trade, from aerospace to software, medical products to trade finance, and architectural and engineering design and consulting. Trading partners span the globe, in Europe, Asia and the Americas.

There are many organizations and business associations that promote and support international trade. At the heart of this effort is an intention to improve international relations, cultural understanding and trade cooperation. Bellevue is proud that its international programs and business activities reflect the rich diversity of its population.

ExportWashington.com is a primary resource.  This web portal streamlines access to government and nonprofit programs to help small and medium sized businesses grow through exporting, whether new to exporting or wanting to expand to more countries. Companies can get help building an export plan, finding export grants and loans, arranging one-on-consultations with government trade specialists, and finding international network and business-matchmaking opportunities.

Other key business resources:

• US Export Assistance Center

Key agencies include:

• Trade Development Alliance of Greater Seattle 
• Port of Seattle
• Port of Tacoma
• Washington Council on International Trade
• Washington State China Relations Council
• World Affairs Council
• World Trade Club
• United States Trade & Development Agency
• Overseas Private Investment Corporation

Since 2007, Bellevue has been an active partner with businesses in trade with China. City-to-city cooperation agreements exist with Dalian and Qingdao. The city launched a Chinese English e-zine called http://www.bellevuecn.com/ in June 2012.

In 2009 the city created a regional effort to facilitate trade and cultural cooperation with India. This effort includes organizing a discussion series, hosting regional conferences, facilitating conversations with the Embassy of India, advocating for additional state and regional services, siting the headquarters of foreign companies and helping to organize cultural festivals.  Gandhi Memorial Information Sheet (October 2009)

TechBA is a Mexican government technology accellerator program located in Bellevue that has brought more than 20 new companies to Bellevue.  Efforts have also included Canada, England, Germany, France, Spain, Malaysia, Singapore, Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia.