Are You Ready for International Buyers at Expo West 2026?
Expo West continues to be the premier global gathering for natural, organic, and better-for-you products. Each year, more international buyers attend the show looking for innovative, high-quality U.S. brands to bring into their home markets.
For many exhibitors, Expo West is where international interest begins. A conversation at the booth can quickly turn into a serious export opportunity. The question is whether your business is ready to take the next step.
Why Expo West Matters for Exporters
Global demand for U.S.-made natural and organic products remains strong. In fact, the majority of global purchasing power exists outside the United States. Companies that export often see higher margins, increased resilience through market diversification, and stronger long-term growth.
Expo West brings together buyers from across Europe, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and beyond. Many are actively seeking Made in the USA products that align with consumer expectations around quality, safety, and transparency.
Preparing Before You Arrive in Anaheim
Export readiness starts well before you arrive on the show floor. One of the simplest and most effective steps exhibitors can take is fully building out their Expo West exhibitor profile. International buyers regularly use the show’s digital platform to search by product category, certifications, and sourcing attributes before ever setting foot in the convention center.
It is also smart to research potential export markets ahead of time. The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Country Commercial Guides provide free, detailed insights into business practices, labeling requirements, tariffs, and cultural expectations for doing business in specific countries.
Making the Most of International Buyer Conversations
When international buyers stop by your booth, it is important not to dismiss opportunities too quickly. Even if a buyer is unfamiliar or presents differently than a domestic distributor, collecting their full legal company name, address, and contact information allows you to conduct proper due diligence after the show.
Displaying a Made in the USA sign at your booth can also make a meaningful difference. Many international buyers actively seek U.S.-made products and associate them with quality and reliability.
Managing Payment Risk with Export Credit Insurance
One of the most common concerns for exporters is payment risk. International buyers often request open account terms such as 30 or 60 days to pay, which can feel uncomfortable for companies new to exporting.
Export credit insurance helps address this challenge. Offered by the Export-Import Bank of the United States, export credit insurance protects U.S. exporters against nonpayment by foreign buyers. It also allows exporters to offer competitive credit terms while protecting cash flow.
In many cases, insured receivables can be used to access working capital, helping companies fulfill orders and support international growth.
Increase Sales & Reduce Risk in International Business with the U.S. Government
For exhibitors who want to deepen their export readiness, join EXIM’s Paul Duncan on Wednesday, March 4th, 2026 from 4:30 PM to 5:00 PM in Room 204C of the main hall, for a focused session on how the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) helps U.S. exporters grow international sales while minimizing risk.
Attendees will learn how EXIM’s export finance programs can make their companies more competitive in global markets, more attractive to international buyers, and better protected against nonpayment and other international account risks.
This session will provide practical insights into government-backed financial tools that can help turn international opportunities into secure, successful transactions.
Turning Expo West Leads into Long-Term Growth
After Expo West, follow-up is critical. Exporters can work with their local U.S. Commercial Service office to evaluate potential buyers, access market intelligence, and conduct due diligence through International Company Profile reports.
Exporters should also screen new buyers through the U.S. government’s Consolidated Screening List to ensure compliance and protect their business.
Visit EXIM at Expo West 2026
If you are exhibiting at Expo West 2026 and thinking about international opportunities, the Export-Import Bank of the United States is here to help.
Stop by EXIM’s booth (#3073) to learn how export credit insurance and other EXIM tools can help you:
- Protect international sales against nonpayment
- Offer competitive payment terms to global buyers
- Unlock working capital to support export growth
Whether you are new to exporting or expanding into new markets, EXIM can help you take the next step with confidence.
Global Opportunities Start at Expo West
Expo West 2026 offers more than visibility. It offers a gateway to global markets. With the right preparation and the right risk management tools, U.S. brands can turn international interest into long-term export success.
