The following activities of the department of commerce shall be exempt:

(1) The provisions of business consulting and advisory services that include tourist promotion under RCW 43.31.050.

(2) The promotion and development of foreign trade under RCW 43.31.370.

(3) The furnishing of technical and information services under RCW 43.31.060.

(4) The provision of technical assistance to applicants for loans and aid and/or grants by the community of economic revitalization board under chapter 43.160 RCW.

(5) The conduct of research and economic analysis under RCW 43.31.070, including the provision of consulting and advisory services and recommendations to state and local officials, agencies and governmental bodies as authorized under RCW 43.31.160, 43.31.200 and 43.31.210.