International Trade Program
The Office of the Secretary of State’s International Trade Program helps Washington businesses grow globally by
- making connections between industry leaders in markets of opportunity
- attracting international businesses to Washington state
- building strategic industry partnerships across borders
As part of the Corporations and Charities division, the International Trade Program supports Washington-based businesses from formation and international documentation to global expansion.
Learn how we help Washington businesses expand globally through trade, foreign direct investment, strategic partnerships, and international business services.
Our approach
We believe successful international business is built not only on transactions, but also on trust, credibility, and enduring relationships.
By combining economic development with relationship-based diplomacy, we showcase Washington's innovative and collaborative approach to business. We are strengthening Washington's reputation as a trusted partner for trade, investment, and long-term collaboration as we go.
Our unique role in international trade — bringing together the resources businesses need to succeed in Washington and around the world
The Secretary of State is Washington's chief elections and business registration officer. This unique role brings a government-to-government dimension to our trade missions, combining business development with public diplomacy.
As the home of Corporations & Charities, the Office of the Secretary of State is uniquely positioned to serve as both the official gateway for establishing a business in Washington and a trusted representative of Washington’s business interests on the international stage.
“A recent trade mission to Japan helped strengthen the state’s longstanding economic relationship with the country while opening new opportunities in industries ranging from aerospace and technology to gaming, agriculture and professional sports.”
- Sec. Steve Hobbs, Lynnwood Times
Trade missions
The International Trade Program leads trade missions designed to deliver measurable business outcomes. We tailor each mission to participants' business objectives and include networking opportunities that accelerate market entry and foster long-term partnerships.
2026 Japan trade mission
Secretary of State Steve Hobbs led a trade mission to Japan in 2026 to strengthen Washington’s longstanding partnership with one of its most important economic partners and create new opportunities for Washington businesses.
Japan is the largest foreign investor in the United States, and the Washington State–Japan trade relationship is valued at more than $11 billion.
The delegation represented Washington’s aerospace, sustainable aviation fuel, agriculture, sports, and tabletop gaming industries. This mission showcased the innovation of Washington’s industry leaders to key business partners in Japan, including at Tokyo Game Market, Asia’s largest tabletop gaming exhibition.
2026 Japan trade mission goals
- Elevate Washington’s local businesses on the world stage
- Represent and open doors for Washington’s key industries
- Make connections and build long-term business relationships with Japanese counterparts
2026 Japan trade mission outcomes
Participating companies
- established 30+ priority business relationships,
- advanced multiple licensing and distribution opportunities
- secured new media exposure
- accelerated market entry into Japan through retail placement and distribution agreements
Collectively, these outcomes strengthened long-term economic ties between Washington State and Japan while creating a strong pipeline for future international trade and investment opportunities.
Go global
Expanding into international markets requires trusted partners and the right resources. The Office of the Secretary of State connects Washington businesses with experts who can help navigate market opportunities, international partnerships, and the challenges of doing business abroad.
Ready to grow your Washington-based business internationally? Explore resources, programs, and connections to help your business succeed in global markets.
- Consular Association of Washington
- U.S. Commercial Service Seattle
- Export Finance Assistance Center of Washington
- Export Trade Assistance for Small Businesses
Trade program news
- Washington Secretary of State Steve Hobbs leading trade mission to Japan to reaffirm business ties, forge new relationships
- Seeking to make Washington a hub for world-class gaming, Secretary of State Steve Hobbs accompanies 10 tabletop gaming companies to Japan
Upcoming events
View upcoming Washington Secretary of State events that support international business, trade, and industry partnerships.