Cover for the May 2026 PYMNTS Intelligence and Mastercard SMB Growth Report. PYMNTS Intelligence reports how SMBs source globally and why faster cross-border payments can help providers win them over.

57% of US Small Businesses Source Overseas as Payment Gaps Widen

The Cross-Border Opportunity: What Global Sourcing by US SMBs Means for Payment Providers

PYMNTS surveyed 535 U.S. SMB owners and executives to understand how they source goods and materials from overseas suppliers. The findings show a large market already operating globally, but still looking for faster, clearer and more flexible ways to pay suppliers abroad.

Read more in “The Cross-Border Opportunity: What Global Sourcing by US SMBs Means for Payment Providers,” a PYMNTS Intelligence and Mastercard collaboration.

Inside the May Report
  • Global sourcing is now common for U.S. SMBs. Fifty-seven percent buy goods or materials from overseas suppliers.
  • Speed is the top priority for businesses paying suppliers abroad. Forty-three percent cite faster payment processing and settlement as their top improvement area.
  • Payment providers have a clear opening to win SMB business. More than one in four internationally active SMBs that source heavily from abroad are open to switching providers.

    By completing this form, you agree to receive marketing communications from PYMNTS and consent to the sharing of your information with our sponsors, where applicable, in accordance with our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions. Sponsors may use this information to contact you directly. You may update your preferences or withdraw your consent at any time.

    I agree that Mastercard International Inc. and its affiliates ('Mastercard') may use my contact details to send me marketing communications about its products, services and events. Note that you can withdraw your consent at any time, free of charge, using the opt-out link provided in each email.

    I acknowledge that my personal data will be processed in accordance with Mastercard’s Global Privacy Notice. By submitting this form, I also confirm that I have read and agree to the Mastercard Terms of Use.

    I agree and acknowledge.

    Subscribeto our daily newsletter, PYMNTS Today.


    SMB Growth

    Ready for Change: Why Nearly Half of SMBs Want to Ditch Cash and Checks Ready for Change: Why Nearly Half of SMBs Want to Ditch Cash and Checks
    SMB Growth Monitor: Small Businesses, Big Credit Needs SMB Growth Monitor: Small Businesses, Big Credit Needs
    SMB Growth Monitor: How Firms Use and Choose Credit Cards SMB Growth Monitor: How Firms Use and Choose Credit Cards