The International Trade Council (ITC) upholds rigorous membership standards to ensure the safety, integrity, and productivity of its organization and work environment. These requirements are designed to build a reliable and trustworthy membership base, allowing ITC to provide high-quality referrals, endorse legitimate businesses, and allocate resources effectively.
We understand that ITC membership may not be suitable for all organizations, particularly startups or entities whose needs are better addressed by local chambers of commerce. Membership in the ITC is generally meant for established businesses seeking to expand their reach and access global trade opportunities. However, this may not preclude organizations from participating in free ITC webinars or free International Trade Council Academy courses, which generally remain open to all.
Below are the detailed requirements and considerations for ITC membership:
1. Membership Application and Vetting
1.1. Right to Discretion:
The ITC reserves the right to reject any membership application at its sole discretion without providing an explanation. Applicants may request an independent appeal, but appeals may be denied if the decision aligns with ITC’s policies and requirements.
1.2. Due Diligence:
All applicants undergo a comprehensive due diligence process, which includes verifying the company’s legal status, business activities, and affiliations to ensure compliance with ITC’s standards and values.
1.3. Automatic Rejection Criteria:
Membership applications will be automatically rejected in the following cases:
- Submission of fraudulent or inaccurate information.
- Return of membership fees or disputes over credit card payments.
- Failed references or inability to verify credibility through provided references.
- Insufficient third-party supporting data about the company available online.
- Lack of evidence of legitimate current activities or a minimum period of operational status.
1.4. Sanctions Screening:
Applicants with ties to sanctioned entities, including as beneficial owners, managers, customers, suppliers, or subcontractors, will be ineligible for membership.
2. Business and Legal Status
2.1. Established Businesses Only:
ITC membership is generally intended for established businesses with clear and ongoing operations. Startups and organizations in the ideation or early-stage phase are typically better supported through local chambers of commerce, which can provide more targeted resources and guidance.
2.2. Registered Companies Only:
Applicants must be legally registered entities with active operational status. Dormant companies may be considered only if their purpose and future plans align with ITC’s mission.
2.3. Clear Business Activities:
Applicants must provide a transparent overview of their business activities. If the ITC cannot understand or lacks the capacity to support these activities, membership will not be granted.
2.4. Ongoing Reassessment:
To ensure compliance with ITC principles, periodic due diligence may be re-performed for all members.
3. Member Conduct and Compliance
3.1. Respectful Behavior:
Members must treat ITC staff, other members, and stakeholders with respect. Any form of abuse—verbal, written, or otherwise—will result in immediate membership termination.
3.2. Misuse of ITC Services:
Abuse of ITC’s visa support letter system or any other membership benefits is strictly prohibited and may lead to revocation of membership.
3.3. Prohibited Conduct:
Companies or individuals engaging in racism, sexism, homophobia, or any other form of discrimination will be denied membership or removed if already admitted.
4. Membership Categories
4.1. Category Limits:
To maintain balanced representation and effective resource allocation, ITC may limit the number of members in certain categories, such as specific industries or geographic regions.
5. Onboarding Process
5.1. Initial Review:
All applicants will undergo an initial review, including background checks, verification of legal status, and alignment with ITC’s mission and goals.
5.2. Orientation Program:
New members may be required to participate in an onboarding session to understand ITC’s policies, benefits, and expectations.
6. Ongoing Membership Requirements
6.1. Periodic Compliance Audits:
ITC may periodically reassess member compliance with its policies to maintain high standards of professionalism and trustworthiness.
6.2. Ethical Standards:
Members are expected to maintain the highest ethical standards and contribute to a positive, collaborative community.
6.3. Fit for Membership:
Membership may be revoked if ITC determines that a company is unsuitable or that ITC cannot support its activities effectively.
7. Participation in Free Resources
Non-members are welcome to participate in ITC’s free webinars and International Trade Council Academy courses. However, access to these resources does not grant or imply ITC membership.