§3–304.

    With special emphasis on exports, the Office shall encourage businesses in the State to increase international trade activities by:

        (1)    channeling trade leads and providing a list of prescreened foreign intermediaries;

        (2)    providing informational and consultative services on the international trade process, including:

            (i)    market research and selection;

            (ii)    marketing techniques and risks;

            (iii)    foreign trade laws; and

            (iv)    the availability of private or public financing;

        (3)    developing publications to facilitate the exchange of information on products and services between businesses in the State and foreign businesses;

        (4)    initiating and organizing foreign trade missions to and from foreign countries and participating in trade fairs, in cooperation with local governments and the private sector;

        (5)    establishing an outreach program for small-sized and medium-sized businesses that have export potential to provide counseling and to use experienced private-sector exporters and other qualified persons; and

        (6)    assisting, as appropriate, with acquisition of export-related financing through the Maryland Industrial Development Financing Authority and federal, local, or private programs.