"We see your imports" is a powerful opener that can be done elegantly or clumsily. The wording decides which impression sticks.
The US buyer knows that import data is public: a professional is not surprised that you use it. But tone matters: overly detailed quoting in the first message comes across as stalking, while a general reference reads as competence.
Bad: I saw that on March 14 you received 19.3 tons of plywood from Riga on ship X. Good: it looks like you import birch plywood from the Baltics regularly: we believe we could complement your supply chain.
An opener in three parts: an observation about their business in generalized form, your specific offer in one sentence, and a low-threshold next step. Keep the data details for the second conversation, where they come across as preparation rather than stalking.
And if the buyer asks how you know: answer candidly that you use public import data just like their competitors do. That honest answer has always worked better than dodging.
Data opens the door, but it is a person who walks in: a respectful tone, valuing their time and being specific are what turn the data advantage into money. The tool does not replace manners, it amplifies them.
The first consultation is free: together we'll see who in the US already buys your product and how to reach them.