Once you determine that exporting is appropriate for your company, you’ll need to decide which of your products or services to sell overseas and to which countries you’ll export.

We find that companies are more likely to succeed when they select one country to begin their export activities, and we recommend you do the same. This strategy allows you to focus your resources effectively and test out your plan with a smaller financial commitment.

Deciding on one country can be difficult. You might want to start by researching a particular region, such as Asia or Europe, and then narrowing your scope to one country or to one region within that country. Don’t overlook Canada as a possible candidate for your first international efforts.

Click here for US Commercial Service Country Guides.
Click here for The World Fact Book.
Click here for Country Overview from World Trade Press.

Once you’ve selected your country, you need to start your market research. Our international business development managers will help you answer these questions for the country you select:

• Is your product currently sold in your target market?
• Is your product currently manufactured in your target market?
• Who are your major competitors in the country and what price are they charging for their products?
• What distribution channels offer the best mechanism to sell your product?
• Will your product require major modifications to make it acceptable to foreign standards or cultural norms?
• What tariffs, taxes, and other costs will you face when exporting to the market?
• What regulatory issues may affect your market entry?
• How can you obtain materials and resources for your industry, including trade journals, associations, and industry trade shows and events?

Return to International Trade Main Page