ABOUT US
What We Do
How District Export Councils Were Formed
How District Export Councils Were Formed
We counsel local business executives and managers on strategies for increasing sales of their products and service in foreign markets.
We advise Alaska businesses on issues, laws and regulations involving Alaska exports.
We inform/educate the business community about opportunities associated with the export of products and services through:
- Sponsoring seminars, workshops and conferences on issues relating to international trade.
- Volunteer expertise in export marketing and finance to Alaska business.
- Arranging appearances by key decision makers in government and industry to discuss trade related issues.
- Developing positions on proposed policies, regulations and other issues related to international trade.
- Working with the state’s congressional delegation on trade issues.
- Awarding scholarships to college students pursuing careers in international trade.
- Publishing and speaking on export related opportunities.
- Hosting foreign buyers and dignitaries.
- Providing briefings to Alaskans traveling overseas and information to Alaska firms on foreign buyers and investors.
- Sponsoring the annual Export Alaska Banquet. Sponsoring export workshops for specific industry sectors.
- Actively supporting the Alaska Export Assistance Center of the U.S. Commercial Service
How District Export Councils Were Formed
How District Export Councils Were Formed
How District Export Councils Were Formed
In 1960, the President asked the Secretary of Commerce to enlist the efforts of the U.S. business community in enlarging export opportunities for American firms. Responding to this challenge, the National Export Expansion Council was formed.
In response to National Export Expansion Council recommendations and to stimulate greater business participation in the national export expansion effort, the President signed an Executive Order in 1973 that directed the Secretary of Commerce to establish District Export Councils throughout the United States.
Under the authority of the U.S. Department of Commerce, 41 DEC’s were established by the Secretary of Commerce in 1974. Approximately 1,000 business and trade experts were appointed to serve on the newly formed DEC’s. Since then, the number of DEC’s and DEC membership has been expanded to better meet the needs of the growing number of U.S. exporters.
Under the Secretary’s guidelines, the District Export Councils were specifically created to promote exports in their local communities. DEC’s are not advisory committees and are not subject to the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA). As a volunteer group, DEC’s do not receive government appropriations or compensation. They also do not have access to classified information and therefore, do not have security clearances.
Who are the District Export Council Members?
Each DEC has approximately 30 members, at least half of whom are exporters. Members also include export trading or management company representatives; bankers; international lawyers and accountants; freight forwarders; and others whose profession supports the U.S. government’s export promotion mission.
Recommendations for appointment are based on the individual’s position in the local business community, knowledge of day-to-day international operations, interest in export development, and willingness and ability to devote time to the council — at his or her own expense.
How are Members Appointed
Notices requesting applications for nomination are placed in the Federal Register and elsewhere to attract new nominees. The local U.S. Commercial Service Director, in consultation with the staff, other DEC members and local partner organizations recommends individuals for membership.
A fair and transparent review and appointment process is conducted within Commerce, and the Secretary makes the final decision on all membership and leadership appointments. Members are appointed by the Secretary of Commerce to staggered four-year terms.
