Resources

A trade barrier is a government-imposed restriction on the international exchange of goods or services. Barriers to trade are often called “protection” because their stated purpose is to shield or advance particular industries or segments of an economy.

Even if your company already has a domestic marketing plan in place, it is essential to develop an international marketing plan to help reach target markets abroad and ensure that your products or services are relatable to your audience.

When traveling for business overseas, there are visa and health requirements to consider, national holidays to avoid, trade events to schedule, and troubled areas to avoid. When planning a business trip abroad, the best place to start is with the local embassy or consulate of your destination country. Officials who work in embassies and consulates can provide you with essential requirements for entry and information regarding the local economy, holidays, and more.

Shipping your product to a foreign country requires an understanding of packing, labeling, insurance, Incoterms, and documentation.

Learn how to determine your HS Code and Schedule B numbers. Harmonized System (HS) codes are a standardized numerical method of classifying traded products. Exporters need to know their product’s Schedule B and HS numbers to determine import tariff rates, complete export and shipping documents, and view export and import data for specific products.

Some U.S. companies have found that foreign manufacturers have copied their products, packaging, and business plans, even though they had never done business abroad. Any business that exports its IP-protected products abroad or sources its products overseas must take into account the potential for IP theft. For this reason, it is a good idea to get the appropriate forms of IP protection before doing business in another country.