U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross presented Cosmoprof North America (CPNA) the President’s “E” Award for Export Service at a ceremony in Washington, D.C., on May 22. The President’s “E” Award is the highest recognition any U.S. entity can receive for making a significant contribution to the expansion of U.S. exports.

“Cosmoprof North America has demonstrated a sustained commitment to export expansion. The “E” Awards Comittee was very impressed with Cosmoprof North America’s extensive beauty matchmaking program to connect U.S. manufacturers and distributors with international buyers. The companies four-year record of growth in international attendees was also particularly notable. Cosmoprof North America’s achievements have undoubtedly contributed to national export expansion efforts that support the U.S. economy and create American jobs,” said Secretary Ross in his congratulatory letter to the company announcing its selection as an award recipient.

Attracting over 1,100 exhibitors, almost 40% of whom come from overseas, Cosmoprof North America focuses on helping its over 33,000 attendees to discover unique brands and products, find new channels for distribution, packaging, and manufacturing, and to form key relationships with top industry professionals and retailers.

“Throughout the years, many companies have benefited from the services and support offered to CPNA exhibiting companies looking to expand distribution internationally,” says Daniela Ciocan, Marketing Director of CPNA. “We are thrilled to be awarded such a distinguished recognition. CPNA is committed to promoting the personal care and beauty products industry around the world.”

In total, Secretary Ross honored 32 U.S. companies and organizations from across the country with the President’s “E” Award for their role in strengthening the U.S. economy by sharing American ingenuity outside of our borders.

U.S. companies are nominated for the “E” Awards through the U.S. Commercial Service, part of the Department’s International Trade Administration. With offices across the United States and in embassies and consulates around the world, The International Trade Administration lends its expertise at every stage of the exporting process by promoting and facilitating exports and investment into the United States; administering Anti-Dumping and Countervailing Duties orders; and removing, reducing, or preventing foreign trade barriers.

U.S. exports totaled $2.21 trillion in 2016, accounting for nearly 12 percent of U.S. gross domestic product. Exports supported an estimated 11.5 million jobs nationwide in 2015, according to the most recent statistics from the International Trade Administration.