About the Federation of International Trade Associations (FITA)

Click here for a map and driving directions to the FITA Headquarters

Click here for a PowerPoint presentation that introduces FITA.

The Federation of International Trade Associations (FITA), founded in 1984, fosters international trade by strengthening the role of local, regional, and national associations throughout the United States, Mexico and Canada that have an international mission.

FITA affiliates are 450+ independent international associations which fall into six categories:

1. World Trade Clubs (world trade clubs, centers, councils; international trade associations, etc.) Examples: Washington International Trade Association; World Trade Center Miami; World Trade Club of St. Louis; Women in International Trade Chapters.
2. Associations/Chambers of Commerce with regional/Bi-Lateral interests - Examples: the German American Business Association; the British-American Chamber of Commerce; the U.S.-Russia Business Council.
3. Associations Focused on International Logistics - Examples: National Customs Brokers & Freight Forwarders Association; Women in Transportation; Containerization & Intermodal Institute.
4. Associations Supporting International Trade - such as small business development centers/organizations, etc. Examples: Coalition for Employment through Exports; Florida Trade Data Center.
5. Associations Supporting Exporters - Examples: Small Business Exporters Association; National Association of Export Companies; Export Managers Association of California; National Association of Export Companies.
6. Professional Associations - Examples: British Academy of Film & Television Arts Los Angeles; Foundation for International Meetings; International Licensing Industry Merchandisers' Association; American Translators Association

The 400,000 organizations linked to FITA through their membership in a FITA member association represent a broad cross-section of the international trade community: manufacturers, trading companies, contractors, freight forwarders, custom house brokers, airlines, shipping companies, port authorities, banks, insurance brokers and underwriters, associations and a wide range of service providers including telecommunications companies, law firms, and consultants.

MEMBERSHIP in FITA

FITA has established two classes of entities and/or individuals eligible for membership in FITA.

1. Trade Associations. Associations in North America whose mission, wholly or in part, is to foster and/or support international trade. Members of trade associations affiliated with FITA are considered FITA members for purposes of eligibility for FITA member benefit programs. FITA recommends membership in one of our member organizations. Click here for more information about joining a member association.
2. Individual. North American business organizations, civic organizations, and governmental organizations actively interested in international trade. These organizations shall include, but not be limited to:
   • Organizations that trade in goods and/or services as producers, wholesalers, retailers, agents, etc: i.e. - exporters, importers, those that make foreign investments or have foreign parents, those that license technology or intellectual property to or from foreign partners, etc.
   • Organizations that support trade as service providers, agents, etc: i.e. - logistics firms, financial and insurance institutions, consultants, publishers, communication firms, hospitality and travel industry firms, etc