Port of Everett offers free export workshop for manufacturers Sept. 16

Everett manufacturers and small businesses can learn how to cut costs on imported materials and break into international markets at a free workshop Sept. 16 at the Port of Everett.

The "World Trade Ready: Exporting, E-Commerce & Foreign Trade Zone Workshop" runs from 10 a.m. to noon in the Blue Heron Room. The Port, Economic Alliance Snohomish County and the Washington State Department of Commerce are co-hosting the event. Space is limited.

The workshop covers three tracks: state export-assistance resources, selling to Korean consumers through e-commerce platform Coupang and using the Port's Foreign Trade Zone #85 to reduce duties on imported components.

Why it matters locally

Foreign Trade Zone #85 lets companies inside the zone defer, reduce or eliminate customs duties on materials they import for manufacturing. According to the city of Everett's comprehensive plan, 60% of Everett jobs are tied to international trade. The Port's seaport handles nearly $21 billion in U.S. exports annually, ranking as the No. 2 export customs district in Washington and No. 5 on the West Coast, according to Port of Everett data.

That trade infrastructure supports more than 40,000 regional jobs and $433 million in state and local tax revenue.

The workshop arrives as the trade environment remains volatile. Port of Everett CEO Lisa Lefeber said at the port's annual Port Report on July 13 that tariffs and shifting supply chains had pressured cargo volumes for nearly two years, though inquiries from prospective customers had increased following recent court activity on tariff policy.

Coupang and Korean e-commerce

One session will focus on Coupang's Global Fulfillment program, which lets U.S. sellers ship inventory to a fulfillment center in Riverside, California. Coupang then handles customs clearance and delivery to Korean customers. The only requirement to join is a U.S. business license, according to Coupang's program page.

Organizers

Port Commission President David Simpson said the Port is committed to working with regional partners to help local businesses grow.

Ray Stephanson, president and CEO of Economic Alliance Snohomish County, said the workshop gives manufacturers "a direct line to the resources, partners, and markets that can make it happen." Stephanson, an Everett native, has led the county's state-designated economic development organization since December 2024.

Additional speakers and a full agenda will be announced in coming weeks.