The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) (formerly the Bureau of Export Administration (BXA) is at the cutting edge of many challenging and important issues involving national security and high technology. A principal challenge for the bureau is helping stop proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, while furthering the growth of U.S. exports. Export growth can be stimulated by eliminating outdated export controls and streamlining the licensing process, while fully protecting national security interests.

The International Trade Administration (ITA) is the lead unit for trade in the Department of Commerce. It promotes U.S. exports of manufactured goods, nonagricultural commodities and services. It participates in formulating and implementing U.S. foreign trade and economic policies and monitors market access and compliance of U.S. international trade agreements. In these processes, ITA works closely with U.S. businesses and other government agencies including the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative and the Department of Treasury.