Export Promotion: Implementation of the Export Trading Company Act of 1982

In response to a congressional request, GAO reviewed the implementation of the Export Trading Company Act of 1982 and analyzed: (1) congressional and executive branch expectations for the export trading companies (ETC); (2) the number of ETC formed and their activities; (3) the number and effectiveness of the antitrust exemptions the Department of Commerce granted; (4) whether ETC have helped to lessen the trade deficit; and (5) reasons advanced for establishing such companies.