How Does a Small Business Get Started in the International Market
Mike Parra, Senior Vice President and Head of Network Operations for the Americas Region for DHL
According to the Small Business Administration, since 2003, America’s small business exports have grown by about 80 percent. They now account for nearly $500 billion in annual export sales. But how does a small business get started in the international market?
The seesawing U.S. economy, coupled with President Obama’s National Export Initiative, makes this an ideal time for small business owners to consider international expansion. Expanding overseas can seem daunting because of the uncertainties that come with doing business outside of your home country.
Small businesses may have questions that arise about the cost and logistics of shipping across the globe, learning customs and trade laws, as well as keeping up with fluctuating currency conversion rates.
U.S. business owners may see the opportunity to expand internationally at this ideal time to tap into the growing economies of these international countries, get a handle on the opportunities that exist and avoid some of the potential pitfalls.