06.05.18

Klobuchar, Hoeven Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Help Rural Businesses Access International Markets and Increase Exports

WASHINGTON- U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and John Hoeven (R-ND) introduced the Promoting Rural Exports Act of 2018 to help rural businesses access international markets and increase exports. The bipartisan legislation would establish a Rural Export Center at the U.S. Commercial Service to provide support to rural businesses to help them export their products to new international markets.

“I’ve met with businesses across Minnesota and seen firsthand how important exporting is to their success—businesses in rural areas shouldn’t be denied those opportunities just because of their zip codes,” Klobuchar said. “Our bipartisan Promoting Rural Exports Act will boost exports and advance innovation in our rural communities so they can continue to grow.” 

“This bipartisan legislation is all about helping rural businesses to access international markets and export their products,” Hoeven said. “The Rural Export Center will provide rural companies with the resources and tools they need to compete in today’s global economy. This legislation is all about helping to grow rural economies and create jobs in local communities.”   

The Promoting Rural Exports Act of 2018: 

  • Directs the Assistant Secretary of Commerce to establish a Rural Export Center at the U.S. Commercial Service to help rural businesses export their products;
  • Gives preference to locations for the Rural Export Center that are not in a major metropolitan area;
  • Directs the Rural Export Center to provide customized market research services to help rural businesses target their exports;
  • Directs the Rural Export Center to conduct strategic planning and export support services for rural businesses; and 
  • Requires the Center to make data relating to its effectiveness publicly available on its website. 

“Mattracks is a rural manufacturer of rubber track vehicle conversion systems based in Karlstad, MN, and we support the Promoting Rural Exports Act of 2018. What a great idea to put together a research team to help companies export more. This is long overdue. Mattracks has exported to over 120 countries, but that doesn’t mean we don’t need help from time to time. We not only support the Promoting Rural Exports Act of 2018, but we will also promote research services to any company that wants to start or expand their export business. It’s 100% invaluable!” said Roger Brazier, Sales Manager of Mattracks.

“Due to their location, rural businesses often lack access to resources essential for successful exporting. The Promoting Rural Exports Act of 2018 will allow rural North Dakota businesses to better access resources and eliminate barriers to international markets. North Dakota and all of rural U.S. is full of people that are ready and willing to accept the challenge of competing in a global marketplace. This legislation provides the tools they need to accelerate and guarantee cost-effective success,” said Tom Shorma, Chairman of the North Dakota District Export Council.

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