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If you want to start an import/export business, there are a few things to keep in mind.
- Research what you are going to import and what you are going to export. Check your local businesses to see if they are interesting in selling their products in a local market. The same applies for the product you are looking at importing, research companies overseas and contact them to see if they are interesting in selling their product to the American market.
- Government actively promotes the exporting of American made goods. There are government agencies which help exporters set up their business by providing advice and information such as solutions and opportunities for export.
- Foreign consulates located in America and US embassies located abroad are a good place to go for information on potential opportunities
- Import/export is all about forming good relationship and business partnerships. You never know when you may have the opportunity to do business with someone, so always behave in a professional and polite way.
- When communicating with people from a different country it is important to be mindful of cultural practices that may be present in the way they communicate. Research the culture before attempting to make contact to see if there are any rules in communicating. This way you are less likely to offend anyone.
Always start small and remember that sometimes it takes a while for things to get up and running. If you keep this in mind and keep persevering then your import/export business will gradually grow to a very successful enterprise.
