The Israel Export & International Cooperation Institute (Israel Export Institute, IEICI) is Israel’s national export promotion agency, established to support and advance the global competitiveness of Israeli industries. Founded in 1958 and headquartered in Tel Aviv, the institute operates as a non-profit organization under the joint ownership of the Israeli government, the Manufacturers Association, the Histadrut (General Organization of Workers), and the Federation of Israeli Chambers of Commerce.
Organizational Overview
The Israel Export Institute plays a central role in facilitating international business development for Israeli companies across all major sectors, from agrifood and life sciences to cybersecurity, clean tech, and defense. The institute bridges the gap between Israeli innovation and global market demand by fostering strategic partnerships, trade delegations, and knowledge transfer programs.
- Director General: Nili Shalev
- Chairman: Avi Balashnikov
- Headquarters: 29 Hamered Street, Tel Aviv–Jaffa, Israel
- Employees: 100+
- Ownership: Public-private partnership
- Established: 1958
Core Functions and Services
1. Export Promotion
The institute facilitates the export of Israeli goods and services by:
- Organizing national pavilions at leading international trade fairs
- Coordinating B2B matchmaking events between Israeli companies and global buyers
- Supporting sector-specific export growth plans and government incentive programs
2. Market Development
IEICI offers services to help Israeli exporters enter and expand in global markets:
- Customized market intelligence and regulatory guidance
- International business delegations and roadshows
- Development of strategic alliances and cross-border joint ventures
3. Sectorial Divisions
The Israel Export Institute maintains dedicated teams for various sectors:
- Agriculture & Agritech
- Food & Beverage
- Medical Devices & Digital Health
- Cybersecurity & ICT
- Smart Mobility & Automotive
- Green Energy & Sustainability
- Consumer Goods & Fashion
- Defense & HLS (Homeland Security)
Each division supports companies through targeted programming, certifications, marketing materials, and export training.
Economic Impact
Israel’s export economy is a key pillar of its GDP, and the institute plays a vital role in facilitating global trade connections.
Key Figures (2023):
- Total Israeli exports: $160.6 billion
- Goods: $70.7 billion
- Services: $89.9 billion
- High-tech exports: Over 50% of total exports
- Agri-food and food tech exports: Approx. $2.8 billion
- Participation in trade fairs and missions: 400+ Israeli companies supported annually
The Export Institute’s role is critical in supporting Israel’s ambition to become a global hub for innovation, technology, and sustainable solutions.
Global Reach
IEICI collaborates with over 90 economic attachés and trade offices via the Ministry of Economy and Industry and maintains relationships with foreign trade bodies, chambers of commerce, and multinational corporations.
Major Export Markets:
- United States
- European Union (Germany, Netherlands, France)
- China and Southeast Asia
- India
- UAE and Gulf Cooperation Council
- Africa (select markets for agri-innovation and medical devices)
Strategic Agreements:
- Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) facilitated via Israeli ministries are leveraged by the Institute to open new markets and reduce export barriers.
Partnerships and Institutional Alliances
IEICI works closely with:
- Ministry of Economy and Industry
- Innovation Authority
- Foreign Trade Administration
- Start-Up Nation Central
- Standardization and certification bodies
It also partners with global platforms like MWC (Mobile World Congress), SIAL, Fruit Logistica, Medica, CES, and others for trade fair participation.
Certifications and Export Readiness Support
Although not a certification body, the Institute assists companies with:
- Export documentation and logistics
- Compliance with international standards (e.g., FDA, CE, ISO)
- Preparation for regulatory audits in food, health, and tech sectors
Testimonials and Impact Stories
“The Export Institute helped us secure 30+ qualified leads from a single exhibition. Their guidance and follow-up strategy directly impacted our European sales.”
— CEO, Israeli MedTech Company
“We entered the Southeast Asian market with the Export Institute’s matchmaking program. Today, it’s our second-largest export region.”
— Director of Sales, Israeli Agritech Firm
Major Achievements
- Enabled 10,000+ Israeli companies to connect with international buyers over the past decade
- Launched the “Israel – Gateway to Innovation” global campaign in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Instrumental in opening new export corridors following the Abraham Accords (e.g., UAE, Bahrain)
- Hosted over 1,200 foreign delegations in Israel for reverse trade missions and innovation tours
- Digital transformation of export promotion tools, including virtual B2B platforms post-COVID-19
The Israel Export & International Cooperation Institute continues to serve as the gateway for Israeli companies seeking to expand internationally. With a unique combination of sector expertise, government backing, and private sector integration, the institute remains a cornerstone of Israel’s global trade success.