Markets Abroad

Before attempting to do business in another country it is very important to review market condtions there.  Customer needs, business practices, and government regulations vary significantly around the world and often times differences exist within countries.  Here are several resources that Wisconsin businesses can use to learn about and evaluate markets abroad. 

The Wisconsin Department of Commerce maintains a network of International Offices in key markets that can conduct market viability studies and agent/distributor searches as well as identify government regulations that can affect your sales efforts.

The Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) has assigned a Business Advisor to Wisconsin, co-located with the Department of Commerce in Madison.  Wisconsin firms seeking to do business in Japan can contact Kenji Higashi, ph: (608) 266-9487.

Wisconsin has a number of sister-state relationships in different parts of the world.  Existing bonds and friendships can make it easier to get introduced to a new market.

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) has begun producing 2-page international market reports addressing export opportunities, market situations, and tips for exporting agricultural products for selected markets. The reports are available in PDF format on the DATCP website.  

The U.S. Department of State issues Background Notes that provide a brief synopsis of a country's history, economy, and relationship with the United States.

The U.S. Depatrment of Commerce regularly updates Country Commercial Guides that cover economic data, business practices and travel conditions, best prospects for U.S. businesses, and key contacts.  Commerce also issues industry specific reports, focussing on either individual countries or global markets.

Additional on-line sites with information about international markets can be found by clicking here.