The Export-Import Bank of the United States (Ex-Im Bank), the official export credit agency of the United States, is an independent, self-sustaining federal governmental agency with a mission of “supporting American jobs by facilitating the export of U.S. goods and services”. Established in 1934, Ex-Im Bank is chartered as a government corporation by the U.S. Congress and was last renewed for a three-year term in 2012. Ex-Im Bank’s current authorization is due to expire on June 30, 2015. Much political controversy surrounds Ex-Im Bank, with some on both sides of the political aisle opposing the bank’s reauthorization. This article provides background on Ex-Im Bank and its programs, as well as a summary of the views from both sides of the political debate.

This article was written by Abbey Ruby and Cynthia Allner.