Ownership, operating, and funds transfer risks are key areas to pay attention to when assessing the political situation in a new target market. You already know that knowledge and appreciation of a country’s history, language and culture is critical – review the political background to round out the picture before making a long-term investment. Monitor political developments, and factors outside of government control such as strikes, and create country-specific approaches to your business model, including contingency plans.

Be careful to consider laws or regulations that may impact marketing your products, such as

  • Entry of goods
  • Antidumping/below-cost sales of products
  • Licensing
  • Health and safety standards
  • Advertising
  • Membership requirements (e.g. chamber, trade union)
  • Nationalistic buyers or suppliers
  • Currency and remittance restrictions
  • Value-added and export performance requirements

There’s a lot to consider, but the good news is there are many resources available to tap both in the U.S. and in the target market.