A survey of nearly 300 businesses from California’s far northern region showed that most engage in some sort of export trade, but those sales amount to less than 10 percent of their revenue.

The 30-question poll also found that 71 percent of respondents said they didn’t experience any difficulty entering the export market. But among those who do not export, the most prevalent barriers include navigating government bureaucracy and shipping costs.

The survey by the California Community Colleges system was intended to assess far northern trade in order to enhance education for both businesses and students. The surveys authors hope to establish a state-funded Center for International Trade Development to host trade trips, foreign delegations, and inform course study for local community colleges.

Global trade generates some $250 billion annually for California businesses but just over $300 million for far northern California.

Major industry in the far north includes agriculture and the manufacturing of agricultural equipment and medical devices, said Leah Goold-Haws, a trade consultant with the community college system who headed the survey. About one-third of respondents work in industries related to manufacturing, 26 percent were in professional services, and 20 percent in agriculture.

Read more