Are you considering expanding your business into overseas markets? How do you find the information you need in order that you can start trading? As the economy continues to present challenges in business, it becomes ever more important to investigate new opportunities abroad. Although the idea of this can be a daunting prospect to a small business owner, success abroad could see your business increase its growth dramatically.

Know Your International Stuff

As the government has set goals positively encouraging small and medium businesses to spread their wings abroad, there is plenty of support out there for anyone considering trading overseas. The UK Trade and Investment Department provides informative guides that are extremely helpful. Before making the move to contact overseas buyers you need to consider which countries are appropriate for your product, both culturally and legally, as well as considering any import or export tax issues.

Make Your Business Attractive To International Buyers

In order to compete with domestic suppliers within countries you plan to target, you should consider doing everything you can to make your company appeal to them. One way of doing this is to ensure that your company officially complies with international quality assurance standards. Companies who specialise in this eare are able to provide training necessary to meet these standards. This will assure your prospective clients of the quality of your offering.

Create Leads Abroad

So once you have decided that your business is capable and ready to trade abroad you need to start actually doing it. The world marketplace is of course getting much smaller due to increased technology and online trading, but if you are serious about growth you should get to know your target countries better. Nothing is more important in business than a face to face meeting. One of the most straightforward and tried and tested ways to get yourself in front of international buyers is to attend an international industry exhibition. Taking a stand is an option, or, if budget doesn't permit this, there are usually plenty of networking opportunities created around these events. Make appointments with your prospective customers instead. As an alternative you could consider engaging an international sales representative based in target countries or a distributor for your products.

Some countries are thriving and growing their economies and these are valuable markets for your business. Take some time to find out the facts and reap the benefits of overseas trade.

Marcus Browne is looking to expand into Belgium and will be speaking to british-assessment.co.uk.