Global Business Resources
A total of 75% of the world’s purchasing power is outside the United States, including 95% of the world’s consumers. Tapping into the global marketplace and taking advantage of international trade is essential to the success of Greater Des Moines’ (DSM's) business environment.
Export statistics are available on the DSM USA Research, Stats and Data Hub.
Foreign-Trade Zone (FTZ)
The Partnership manages Foreign-Trade Zone (FTZ) #107, which is conveniently located on Interstates 80 and 35, about 14 miles from the Des Moines International Airport. The FTZ allows certain types of merchandise to be imported, repackaged and assembled with other components, then exported without having to go through formal customs entry procedures or incurring import duties. The Partnership helps Iowa companies establish on-site FTZ sub zones.
For more information about FTZ, view the following links:
Certificates of Origin
The Partnership assists the region's exporters with obtaining a Certificate of Origin. A Certificate of Origin is a document that is required by certain foreign countries for tariff purposes, certifying the country of origin of specified goods. A Certificate of Origin is usually prepared by the exporter or freight forwarder, notarized and attested to by a local Chamber of Commerce. essCert is The Partnership's electronic system for processing a Certificate of Origin. To get started with essCert, create a user profile for your company. Companies with existing profiles in essCert can get started here.
Forgot login details?
For more information on The Partnership's Certificate of Origin services, contact Melissa Moyer.
Port of Entry
The Des Moines International Airport serves as a Port of Entry. As a Port of Entry, the airport has on-site U.S. Customs and U.S. Department of Agriculture inspectors. A new customs facility has recently been completed for the convenience of shippers and travelers.
Greater Des Moines Sister City Commission
The Greater Des Moines Sister City Commission initiates business, cultural, educational and social exchanges between our citizens and those of our sister cities. For more information, visit the Greater Des Moines Sister City Commission website.
Trade Assistance Resources