WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Department of Commerce announced an expansion of its support for U.S. companies competing for major investment and concession projects in other countries. Responding to growing competition from strategic adversaries in foreign markets and industry demand for additional tools to counter unfair foreign competition, this initiative aims to broaden the Department’s Advocacy Center services. The expansion is designed to help eligible U.S. businesses competing to secure contracts in major foreign government investment and concession projects in critical sectors like energy, infrastructure, and critical minerals and metals mining that will benefit the U.S. economy.

“This project represents a bold new step in how the Department of Commerce levels the playing field for U.S. businesses and strengthens American leadership worldwide, underscoring what I’ve long contended: economic security is national security,” said U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. “In taking this step, we’re directly responding to needs U.S. companies have raised in a way that’s consistent with our strategic priorities, drawing countries and partners around the world closer to the United States by strengthening our commercial ties. Helping U.S. companies win overseas means economic benefits back home — more jobs, a stronger industrial base, and more secure and resilient supply chains.”

Since its inception in 1993, the Advocacy Center has successfully coordinated U.S. government efforts to help American companies secure major foreign government procurement contracts and fairly compete against international rivals. These efforts are critical for driving export-led economic growth. In Fiscal Year 2024 alone, the Advocacy Center helped U.S. companies win contracts worth $72.6 billion, supporting an estimated 300,000 U.S. jobs.

This new approach underscores the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to fostering new opportunities for American businesses in sectors critical to global economic development. By providing expanded advocacy services, the Department of Commerce’s Advocacy Center aims to bolster U.S. competitiveness abroad, increase export opportunities, and better position American firms to thrive in a dynamic international market.

About the Advocacy Center: The U.S. Department of Commerce Advocacy Center serves as the central point for coordinating U.S. government efforts to promote American companies competing for international contracts. By working closely with U.S. diplomatic missions and federal agencies, the Advocacy Center helps U.S. businesses receive the support they need to compete fairly and win foreign project or procurement opportunities worldwide. For more information, visit trade.gov/advocacy

About the International Trade Administration: The International Trade Administration (ITA) at the U.S. Department of Commerce is the premier U.S. Government resource for American companies competing in the global marketplace. Operating in more than 100 U.S. locations and 80 markets worldwide, ITA promotes trade and investment, assists U.S. businesses and workers to export and expand globally, and ensures fair trade and compliance by enforcing U.S. trade laws and agreements. For more information on ITA, visit trade.gov.

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