AN INTRODUCTION TO THE INTERNATIONAL TRADE ADMINISTRATION VOLUNTEER INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
Who is ITA?
The International Trade Administration (ITA) is charged with strengthening the competitiveness of U.S. industry, promoting trade and investment, and ensuring fair trade and compliance with trade laws and agreements. ITA creates opportunities for U.S. workers and firms by promoting international trade opportunities and by fostering a level playing field for American business.
ITA is an integral part of the U.S. Department of Commerce. It leverages its relationships with other government bureaus and agencies to maximize the influence of its programs and to minimize their cost. ITA enhances its ability to serve customers through strategic public-private partnerships with American international trade service providers, making ITA’s resources go further.
These activities are organized into four different divisions that comprise ITA:
ITA’s Mission
To create economic opportunity for U.S. Workers and firms by promoting international trade, opening foreign markets, ensuring compliance with trade laws and agreements, and supporting U.S. commercial interest at home and abroad.
ITA plays an important role in fulfilling the department of Commerce’s mission of promoting job creation, economic growth, sustainable development, and improved living standards.
The Objectives of the Internship Program
1. To provide students with an understanding of the structure and function of ITA.
2. To provide students with first-hand experience in promoting and supporting trade and investment together with strengthening industry competitiveness.
3. To enable students to assert initiative and creativity through hands-on involvement and problem solving.