Small businesses trying to read the tea leaves about the strength of the economic recovery might want to consider asking themselves not when, but where is the rebound?  That’s because many countries around the world are emerging from the recession more rapidly than the United States, and now is the time for small businesses to take advantage of the trend.

For instance, India, which is home to 15% of the world’s population, is expected to sustain 8-10% growth over the next several years. What’s more, with an expanding middle class, Indian consumers are beginning to play a larger role in the worldwide economy. Some companies have already caught on as U.S. exports to India have grown by 208% in the past five years. This trend is expected to continue as more businesses realize the enormous opportunity in India.

Other Asian markets are also on the rise. Singapore grew more than 15% in the first quarter, and China’s GDP expanded by nearly 12%. Meanwhile, the U.S. GDP was trudging along at approximately 3% growth.

Canada is another major market that has experienced growth. In the first quarter of 2010, Canada expanded at its fastest pace in a decade. The Canadian dollar continues to strengthen and is at near parity with the U.S. dollar, making the market even more ripe for trade. With a strong and growing economy, high demand for U.S. goods and an established free trade agreement, Canada is an ideal first export market for U.S. small businesses.

Smartphone Experts, an e-tailer of smartphone accessories, took its first step into Canada in 2004. From 2004 to 2009, the company’s Canadian orders increased ten-fold, to about 250 orders a week. Now Smartphone Experts is doing business in markets all over the world, including Germany, France and Australia.

Companies with the foresight to consider global markets today will reap the benefits tomorrow. And it’s easier to do than many may think. The U.S. Commercial Service and UPS provide a variety of resources to help small businesses grow global. For instance, UPS offers guides for doing business in growing markets, including Brazil, Canada, China, India, Poland and Vietnam.

UPS also sponsors numerous events to educate small- and medium-sized businesses about global trade.  For instance, UPS sponsored an export forum during National Small Business Week in May and will host exporting seminars throughout the summer.  These events are designed to help provide the resources and know-how to start or expand a global business.

Knowledge is the best tool for breaking down trade barriers. With a little research, small businesses can achieve big growth.