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    Customs and Border Procedures

    What are customs?   Customs refers to the government agency or authority tasked with regulating trade in goods and collecting any duties levied on imports and exports. Offices and staff working for customs are located at places where goods transit across borders, such as ports, airports or other frontiers. Customs manage a set of procedures and operations to control goods and people (travelers) that enter or exit the country. When you export or import, you will have to comply with a series of customs and border procedures that will verify if your products meet market access requirements (see the Trade4MSMEs guide on Trade Documents for Exports).   What role do customs play in cross-border trade?   Before selling goods abroad or purchasing foreign commodities or products, it is important to map out the relevant procedures your business will have to manage with customs and other competent authorities (such as national plant protection organizations to obtain SPS certificates). Customs play an important role in trade because they protect domestic borders against potential security threats and counterfeit goods. They also examine if your products will be subject to duties and other local regulations and standards (see the Trade4MSMEs guides on Trade Document for Exports and Non-Tariff Measures).   How can my business navigate customs procedures?   In some economies, it is compulsory when an import value is above a certain threshold to use a licensed customs agent to clear goods through customs. In others, businesses simply choose to hire a customs broker to help avoid potentially costly errors. In all cases, the importer is responsible for knowing the requirements and for ensuring compliance.   The Global Trade Helpdesk (GTH) is a free-of-charge website from the United Nations, the International Trade Centre (ITC), and the World Trade Organization (WTO) that provides information on customs authorities and enquiry points for relevant government authorities (see the Trade4MSMEs guide on Enquiry Points) for border procedures involved in exports, imports, and transit of goods. It also describes single window platforms (see the Trade4MSMEs guide on Single Windows) that you can use to submit all documents required by customs and other agencies to comply with local requirements and border procedures.   When using the GTH website, you can check the section on navigating trade procedures that appears when you type the product you seek to export from your domestic market and import into your targeted market. These two webpages will provide you or your customs broker with a starting map of resources to navigate through customs.   Where can I learn more?   Various institutions have online resources and training materials that can help you learn more about technical terms and border procedures managed by customs. Some examples are: Glossary of international customs terms: The World Customs Organization has a glossary with descriptions on key terms used by customs authorities. E-learning courses on customs: The European Commission offers about 600 e-learning courses in 21 languages about customs and border procedures. Most of the materials are free to access. Factsheet on customs procedures and declarations: The European Union Customs Code (UCC) provides a general guide with steps that you can consider for complying with procedures required by customs authorities.   Links to Supporting Information   Trade4MSMEs guide  Trade Documents for Exports   World Customs Organization  World Customs Organization (WCO   Trade4MSMEs guide Non-tariff Measures   FEDEX Guide to navigating customs  Fedex   Global Trade Helpdesk Global Trade Helpdesk   Trade4MSMEs guide  Enquiry/Contact Points   Trade4MSMEs policymakers guide  Single Windows and National Portals   WCO  World Customs Organization   Website of the European Union  eLearning courses and eBooks   The European Union Customs Code (UCC)  Union Customs code &  Customs Procedures and Customs Declarations Quick Info

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    International Commercial Contracts

    Should I have a contract with my international partners?    Any business dealing has a risk of misunderstandings or unfair dealings. Cross-border business transactions may have added difficulties due to the differences in culture, expectations, languages, and legal systems. Given these potential obstacles or risks, it is important to have a clear agreement on a transaction with overseas partners, preferably in writing, in order to avoid potential future disputes and to foster productive long-term relationships.   How do I draft a contract?    The contract should contain terms and conditions upon which both parties agree. It is generally recognized that the parties, i.e., you and your business partner(s), are free to choose and agree on the terms and conditions in your contract (freedom of contract).   Some of the large international organizations aim to harmonize the substantive rules in international trade and business. These organizations include the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL), the Hague Conference on Private International Law (HCCH), and the International Institute for the Unification of Private Law (UNIDROIT), they have developed a wide range of Conventions, model laws, and principles that can be used by the parties for international business contracts. Noteworthy among these are the United Nations Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of Goods (CISG), also known as the Vienna Convention; the HCCH Principles on Choice of Law in International Commercial Contracts; and the UNIDROIT Principles of International Commercial Contracts. These instruments contain sets of rules that can either be incorporated in your contracts for international business transactions and/or can govern your contracts, in addition to national law rules. To assist you in navigating the various international instruments, the three organizations have jointly published a guide to International Commercial Contracts in six languages.   Within a contract, it is also important to use specific and well-established terminology in international business transactions. For example, Incoterms (international commercial terms), established by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), can help standardize a contract’s terminology and assure that parties have the same understanding (see the Trade4MSMEs guide on Incoterms).   Model contracts are also available free of charge from the International Trade Centre or for a fee from the ICC.   For information on what to do in the event of a breach of contract, see the Trade4MSMEs guide on Dispute Settlement.   Links to Supporting Information  UNCITRAL Guide to International Commercial Contracts Legal Guide to Uniform Instruments in the Area of International Commercial Contracts, with a Focus on Sales   Trade4MSMES guide  Incoterms   International Trade Centre  Model Contracts for Small Firms   International Chamber of Commerce   ICC Model Contracts   Trade4MSME guide  Dispute Settlement

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    Intellectual Property Considerations – for Businesses

    What is intellectual property (IP) and what are IP rights? IP refers to creations of the mind and includes inventive products or processes...

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    Technical Barriers to Trade

    What are technical barriers to trade (TBT)?    The World Trade Organization Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (or the ‘TBT Agreement’) exists to ensure that technical regulations and procedures do not cause unnecessary barriers to international trade.   TBT measures include product-related technical regulations and standards, as well as procedures to assess compliance with the requirements set out in these regulations and standards, because technical regulations are mandatory.   TBT measures are used by a country for safety reasons, to protect the environment, to enhance national security, or to provide information to consumers, among other reasons.   What are examples of TBT measures?   TBT measures can take the following forms: testing and certification requirements to ensure product quality, safety, or performance; labelling, marking and packaging requirements; production or post-production requirements; product identity requirements; product quality, safety, or performance requirements.   Some examples of TBT measures include: packaging or labelling requirements, such as health warnings on tobacco products; regulations on product characteristics, such as energy performance requirements for electrical appliances; conformity assessment procedures, such as testing procedures for motor vehicle safety requirements. How do I find information about TBT requirements that may apply to my products?   Exporters, or sellers, are responsible for complying with TBT measures applied in the target country and for providing all necessary documents. Trade agencies, industry associations, and chambers of commerce may offer resources such as newsletters, events, and online platforms to help businesses learn about TBT measures. Businesses and governments can collaborate to address questions and potential trade issues related to notified TBT requirements using the national forums included in the tool. For any questions on technical regulations, procedures and standards in an export market, businesses can contact the TBT enquiry point in that market. Global Trade Helpdesk: This provides an overview of product TBT requirements for importers or exporters targeting foreign markets. Market Access Map: This displays specific TBT measures applicable to products that businesses may seek to import from targeted markets. Trade Analysis Information System (TRAINS): This presents an outlook of existing TBT measures worldwide and multiple features of non-tariff measures reported by 160 countries. World Integrated Trade Solution (WITS): This offers country profiles on TBT regulatory indicators, organized by product sectors. Links to Supporting Information   World Trade Organization’s (WTO) information on technical regulations and standards WTO | Understanding the WTO – Standards and safety   United Nations Conference on Trade and Development’s (UNCTAD) International Classification of Non-Tariff Measures (Chapter B)  International Classification of Non-tariff Measures – 2019 edition (unctad.org)   ePing  Home – ePing SPS&TBT platform (epingalert.org)   ePing  Enquiry point – ePing SPS&TBT platform (epingalert.org)   ePing  Enquiry point – ePing SPS&TBT platform (epingalert.org)    ITC UNCTAD WTO Global Trade Helpdesk   ITC Market Access Map (macmap.org)   UNCTAD TRAINS Online (unctad.org)   World Integrated Trade Solution (WITS) World Integrated Trade Solution (WITS) | Data on Export, Import, Tariff, NTM (worldbank.org)

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    Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures

    What are sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures?    SPS measures consist of laws, decrees, regulations, requirements, and procedures that countries adopt to protect human, animal, or plant life or health against certain risks. These measures generally aim to promote food safety and protect against potential risks from cross-border spread of contaminants, diseases, and pests affecting animals and plants.   Examples of SPS measures include: Requirements for products to come from disease-free areas; specific treatment or processing of products; thresholds for pesticide residues; use of certain additives in food.   SPS measures apply to domestic foods, local animals, and plants, as well as foreign products. For more information, see the link below to the World Trade Organization document on Understanding the WTO Agreement on Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures.   What are the types of SPS measures that can apply to imports?    SPS measures include six broad categories: prohibitions or restrictions of imports; limits for residues and restricted use of certain substances; labelling, marking, and packaging requirements related to food safety; hygienic requirements related to sanitary and phytosanitary conditions; treatment for elimination of plant and animal pests and disease-causing organisms in the final product or prohibition of treatment; other requirements relating to production or postproduction processes.   In addition, SPS measures cover procedures to verify that products meet SPS requirements. For a more comprehensive list of SPS measures, see the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development’s (UNCTAD) International Classification of Non-Tariff Measures.   How do I find information about the SPS measures that may apply to my products?   The exporter, or seller, is responsible for complying with all SPS requirements that apply in the country of import. Local trade agencies, industry associations, and chambers of commerce may offer resources such as newsletters, events, and online platforms for businesses to learn about SPS measures.   ePing: To stay informed of new and updated SPS requirements, businesses can register on ePing, an online initiative developed by the United Nations, the World Trade Organization (WTO), and the International Trade Centre (ITC). Through ePing alerts, businesses can receive notifications of new SPS requirements relevant to their products and target markets, and also identify existing measures in their database. Global Trade Helpdesk: This provides an overview of product requirements for importers or exporters targeting foreign markets. Market Access Map: This displays specific SPS measures applicable to products that businesses may seek to import from targeted markets. Trade Analysis Information System (TRAINS): This presents an outlook of existing SPS measures worldwide and multiple features of non-tariff measures reported by 160 countries. World Integrated Trade Solution (WITS): This offers country profiles on SPS regulatory indicators, organized by product sectors.   Links to Supporting Information   The World Trade Organization Document on Understanding the WTO Agreement on Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures  WTO | Understanding the Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures Agreement   The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development’s (UNCTAD) International Classification of Non-Tariff Measures International Classification of Non-tariff Measures – 2019 edition   ePing  Home – ePing SPS&TBT platform   ITC UNCTAD WTO Global Trade Helpdesk   ITC Market Access Map   UNCTAD TRAINS Online   World Integrated Trade Solution (WITS) World Integrated Trade Solution (WITS) | Data on Export, Import, Tariff, NTM

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    Non-tariff Measures

    What are non-tariff measures?    Non-tariff measures are policy measures that can potentially affect traded goods by changing their quantities, prices, or both. The purposes of non-tariff measures include the protection of public health, or the environment, and may imply information, compliance, and procedural costs. These measures can apply to both imports and exports and are divided into 16 categories. The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) provides a full list of non-tariff measures and their definitions.   What are the different types of non-tariff measures?    Below is a table with broad categories of non-tariff measures that you may encounter. The first two, A and B, apply to importers, or buyers, and item P at the bottom of the table applies only to exporters, or sellers. It is important to note that some of these, such as quotas and trade-related investment measures, are prohibited under World Trade Organization (WTO) rules except for specific circumstances. For more details, please see the WTO’s General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT).   Technical measures on imports A Sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures: These include measures to restrict substances, ensure food safety, and prevent the dissemination of diseases or pests. (See guide on SPS measures) B Technical barriers to trade: These relate to product, technical, or quality requirements. They also include measures on labelling and packaging. (See guide on TBT) C Pre-shipment inspection and other Customs formalities: These involve other technical measures. Non-technical measures on imports D Contingent measures: These include antidumping, countervailing, and safeguard measures. E Licensing and quotas: These also cover quantity controls and other related restrictions. F Price control measures: These affect the prices of imported goods. G Finance measures: These restrict payment of imports and terms of payment. H Competition measures: These grant privileges to one or more economic operators. I Trade-related investment measures: These impose local content or export conditions on investment. J Distribution restrictions: These regulate the internal distribution of imported products. K Restrictions on post-sales services: These restrict, for example, the provision of accessory services. L Subsidies and other forms of support: These include financial transfers to enterprises, individuals, or households. M Government procurement restrictions: These restrict bidders from selling products to a foreign government. N Intellectual property: These involve restrictions or rules related to intellectual property rights. O Rules of origin: These are criteria involving the origin of products or their inputs, which can affect whether these are subject to restrictions, duties, or other measures. P Export-related measures: include export quotas and other export prohibitions.   How can I start identifying non-tariff measures?    Chambers of commerce, industry associations, and trade agencies may provide online portals with lists of non-tariff measures applicable for your products. Businesses can also identify trade restrictions in their targeted markets by using four available online tools, described below:   Market Access Map: This database features specific non-tariff regulations that apply to exports or imports of products, as well as a tracker of temporary trade measures put in place in response to COVID-19. Trade Analysis Information System (TRAINS): The TRAINS database provides an exhaustive list of non-tariff measures available for more than 160 countries, covering more than four fifths of world trade. Global Trade Helpdesk: The Global Trade Helpdesk provides an overview non-tariff measures coming from the Market Access Map and TRAINS, as well other information on rules of origin, trade statistics, and related procedures for importers or exporters targeting foreign markets. World Integrated Trade Solution (WITS): The WITS presents country profiles on non-tariff measures by type.       Links to Supporting Information   The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) provides a full list of non-tariff measures and their definitions International Classification of Non-tariff Measures – 2019 edition (unctad.org)   World Trade Organization (WTO)’s General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) WTO | legal texts – Marrakesh Agreement   Trade4MSMEs guide Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures   Trade4MSMEs guide Technical Barriers to Trade   International Trade Centre ITC   Market Access Map   UNCTAD  TRAINS   International Trade Centre ITC   Global Trade Helpdesk   World Integrated Trade System WITS

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    Basics of Importing

    What are imports?    Imports are defined as both the action of bringing goods into a country or customs territory, and the actual goods themselves. For example, imports are goods or services that buyers in one country purchase from sellers in another country.   Domestic businesses bring in imports from overseas for many purposes, for example, to access new products that are not available in their home country, or to reduce manufacturing costs.   Imports are delivered in many ways. They can be shipped by air, sea or road freight, sent by postal/mail services, or even hand-carried in personal luggage on a plane.   The cross-border aspect of international trade means that importing businesses are sometimes required to obtain licenses or permits to clear imports through customs, and to comply with safety standards.   Resources that can help businesses get started with importing include local chambers of commerce, industry associations, and trade agencies. Businesses can also access the Global Trade Helpdesk, an online portal that provides information on trade requirements, procedures and relevant business partners.   What should I consider before importing?    Before importing goods from overseas, business owners should consider a number of factors. The importing process can be expensive, due to the need for transportation, insurance, foreign exchange, and other steps.   For example, some or all of the import process will require the importing company to contract third party service suppliers such as: customs brokers, currency dealers, translators, freight forwarders   Businesses need to incorporate these cost considerations in their cash flows, and in addition, consider supplier reliability. Businesses should identify dependable and reliable suppliers that can provide the necessary services while also fulfilling quantity, quality, and regulatory requirements.   What are the key practical steps for importing?    Before importing, businesses should check the steps required and any relevant prohibitions or import procedures for the item being considered. Practical steps that importing businesses may consider include: Finding a foreign supplier: One way to start is by consulting with your local chamber of commerce, trade agencies, and business network about possible suppliers. You can also identify potential trade partners and business contacts at trade fairs and events organized by business support organizations. Online marketplaces are also an important way to connect importers and exporters. TheTrade4MSME guide on Selling Abroad Online also provides additional information. Reviewing import conditions, duties, and compliance requirements: Duties are tariffs applied to the planned imports the Trade4MSME guide on How do I determine my product’s HS code contains more detailed information on how various products may attract different rates of duty. Compliance requirements include: health safety environmental technical regulations that certify products and help standardize certain products within a country. registration and marketing rules for engaging in the importing process also need to be considered. Organizing sales by defining contractual liabilities with foreign suppliers for the delivery and insurance of imports: In the case of importing goods, contracts can also specify transport and shipment conditions see the Trade4MSME guide on Logistics for more information. Preparing all required paperwork for the border: This may include: presenting a customs declaration to the national customs authority, preparing a commercial invoice, insurance and transport documents, certificate of origin, import license, or other documentation.   Links to Supporting Information   Global Trade Helpdesk a multi-agency initiative jointly led by ITC, UNCTAD, and the WTO Global Trade Helpdesk   Canadian Small Business Development Center – Guide to Imports Importing Guide   European Commission Guide to Imports – Checklist of 4 Steps to Import a Product  Guide for import of goods | Access2Markets   Trade4MSMEs guide Selling Abroad Online   Trade4MSMEs guide How Do I Determine My Product’s HS Code?   Trade4MSMEs guide Logistics

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    Intellectual Property Disputes

    What is an IP (Intellectual Property) dispute? An IP dispute is a conflict or disagreement over Intellectual property rights (IP rights).

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    Dispute Settlement

    What happens if there is a breach of commercial contract?    If your business trades with a company based in another country or customs territory, this is classed as ‘cross-border trade’ and effectively it means, in legal terms, that the other party is not necessarily subject to the jurisdiction of courts where you are based. It is important that you get the right commercial agreements in place, and confirm the law applicable to the contract, and a dispute resolution mechanism, at the very start of trading internationally.   Although you hope it will never happen, should a dispute arise, it is always better if you can have it resolved in your local court, with your own lawyers and in your own language.   If this is not possible and the dispute involves an overseas jurisdiction, this can complicate things and you would need to obtain legal advice familiar with commercial law in both country’s jurisdictions.   Points to consider when drawing up a contract: Look to minimise your risk with fair and transparent contracts and terms and conditions. Appoint a legal professional / specialist international trade lawyer to help guide you. Ensure you have a clear understanding of what all your obligations will be under the finalised contract. Don’t accept “standard terms” with which you cannot comply. Ensure you have a clear understanding of what all your obligations will be under the finalised contract. Be clear on the extent of your potential liabilities. It would usually be sensible to try and agree a cap on liability – in many cases this comprises a multiple of the contract value. Deliver on time to the terms of the contract   When a breach of an international contract occurs, the parties encounter issues such as: What type of case it is. Where the case will be decided. Which law will be used to decide   It is also important to agree on a dispute resolution mechanism at the start, choices can include: Judicial Proceedings Alternative Dispute Resolution ADR mechanisms Arbitration Mediation   While choosing the mode of resolution, another factor to consider is where and whether the ensuing judgment or arbitral award will be recognized and enforced. It would not be helpful if, for example, the judgment or the arbitral award was in your favour but cannot be recognised and/or enforced in another state where your other contractual party has assets.   The law applicable to the contract will be applied to settle the dispute arising from the negotiation, conclusion, performance, interpretation, or execution of the contractual terms.   Links to Supporting Information   The International Trade Centre ITC  Model Contracts for Small Firms | ITC Model contracts are available free of charge   WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization) Alternative Dispute Resolution  Alternative Dispute Resolution (wipo.int)   New York Convention for arbitral awards 1958 New York Convention   The UN (UNCITRAL)  United Nations Commission on International Trade Law  and  Online Dispute Resolution: On-line Resources | United Nations Commission On International Trade Law

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    The Importance of Cybersecurity

    What is cybersecurity?    Introducing Cybersecurity into your organization is a way individuals and businesses reduce the risk of cyber-attacks. It is also known as information technology security or electronic information security. Using technology and digital platforms for commercial activities exposes companies to cybercrime like phishing, malware, or data and identity theft. Cybersecurity embodies a set of systems, processes, and actions and its core function is to protect businesses from digital attacks. We all use smartphones, laptops, tablets and computers, and we access multiple services online at home and at work and we need to protect them from theft or damage. To reduce these cyber threats, learn more about how to protect your organization’s data, assets, networks, programs and your reputation from digital attacks. Introducing cybersecurity can protect your data and systems.   Why does cyber security matter for my business?    We all live in an increasingly interconnected world, and this has had many positive effects enabling businesses to collect and share more information, reach new customers and innovate. It has also though, led to a rise of criminal activities that profit from stealing customer data and spying on business practices. Small businesses can often be victims of cyber-attacks, putting their assets, data, information, and technology equipment at risk. Investing in sound cybersecurity systems can prevent you from suffering financial losses and corporate reputation damage.   How cyber threats could affect business?   Some examples of cyber threats that may affect your business. Phishing: This is a social engineering tactic that lures individuals into providing sensitive data by offering fake rewards. Through this tactic, criminals often target personally identifiable information, banking and credit card details, and passwords. Malware: This consists of malicious software that comes from website downloads, spam emails, and connection to other machines or devices. Hackers use malware to gain access to networks and steal or destroy data on computers. Ransomware: This is a form of malware that encrypts business files, making them no longer accessible. Criminals use it to demand a ransom in exchange for unlocking the data targeted. Weak passwords: Passwords are weak when humans or machines can easily identify them. Criminals that correctly identify passwords have easy access to business accounts that store confidential and sensitive data. Insider threats: These threats are performed by current or former employees, business contractors or other associates who seek to access critical business data for illicit purposes. How can I protect my business against cyber risks?    Protecting your business from cyber risks can enable you to counteract criminal activity and keep pace with emerging trends in data privacy. You can start planning cybersecurity strategies by identifying systems, data, and users that are essential for your business operations. This mapping exercise will highlight vulnerability points that can be the subject of your cybersecurity goals and strategies, as well as help you to develop a cybersecurity plan at your business.   Links to Supporting Information   Cyber Research Institute Roadmap A guide to being cyber ready.   Cyber Research Institute  Cyber Readiness Program – Cybersecurity Awareness Workforce Training This program guides SMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises) to become cyber against cyber threats.   GCA (Global Cyber Alliance) Cybersecurity Training  Small Business    and Know What You Have – GCA Cybersecurity Toolkit | Tools and Resources to Improve Your Cyber Defenses   The Global Cyber Alliance (GCA) offers a cybersecurity toolkit designed for small businesses and online training courses.   US Small Business Administration  Strengthen your cybersecurity   The United Kingdom’s National Cyber Security Centre  and Small & medium sized organisations – NCSC.GOV.UK  provides training and certification.   Government of Canada  Cyber Secure Canada offers an SME-targeted certification scheme.

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    Digital Tools and Approaches

    How can technology help my business trade? Businesses that adopt new technologies are better positioned to seize opportunities in global marketplaces.

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    Selling Abroad Online

    Why might I want to sell online?    Selling online offers a competitive edge to small businesses seeking to expand into new markets. It is often a lower cost, lower risk business model for small businesses starting out in international trade. Retail e-commerce sales worldwide have seen a rapid increase in recent years. E-commerce can be a quick and effective way to attract more customers. By selling online, it is possible for you to reach a new global customer base with lower overhead than if sales were only made through physical stores.   How can I sell online?    From online marketplaces and platforms to social media and e-commerce websites, there are a wide range of digital sales options in addition to traditional or physical stores. Some of the most common ways to sell online are listed below.   Marketplaces: These could be general or specialized by market sector (for example textiles, or electronics). General marketplaces are suitable to sell products or services with mass appeal when branding is not a business priority. In contrast, specialized marketplaces enable businesses to position their brands, find market niches, and offer customized value propositions to clients. Listing websites: These are useful for MSMEs with business models that focus on buying and re-selling common items. They are also appealing for businesses that sell by offering competitive prices or promoting additional features of goods and services advertised on the web. Social media: Social media platforms enable businesses to create customized webpages linked to online e-commerce sites and marketplaces with mass reach. Your own online webshop: Building and maintaining your own online shop can be effective, you can engage a commercial company /website builder to do this for you. This is the quickest, easiest route to creating a sleek, professional online presence for your ecommerce business. Many companies also offer competitively priced template sites that you customize. Or, if you have the knowledge and skill, you can code your own.    What should I consider before selling online?    A starting point is to plan a sound e-commerce sales strategy and get customer feedback on products and services. Either through social media or direct contact channels, you can reach out directly to potential customers to understand their needs and find target markets domestically and/or internationally. Understanding your customer base can help you customize products and services and identify market entry options. Other things to consider include payment methods, as well as the shipping and returns policies that may be best suited for your customers. These may vary depending on the market. You should also research market access requirements that may affect your products and services(see the Trade4MSMEs guides on services export potential and services contact points)Services Contact Points have more information. Many businesses can benefit from online communities and training courses about online sales methods and e-commerce strategies.   Links to Supporting Information   WTO (World Trade Organization) regional initiatives on e-commerce  WTO | Electronic commerce   UNCTAD Global E-Commerce Jumps to $26.7 Trillion, Covid-19 Boosts Online Retail Sales | UNCTAD   Statista  Global retail e-commerce sales 2026 | Statista   International Trade Centre (ITC)  ecomConnect:   ecomConnect | E-commerce Community Engagement Platform for Everyone   Is an e-commerce online community   Trade4MSME Guide  Export Potential Guide   Trade4MSME guide Services Contact Points   ITC Online training courses  ITC SME Trade Academy – Catalogue (intracen.org)   ITC ITC SME Trade Academy – Summary of Introduction to E-commerce (intracen.org)   ITC ITC SME Trade Academy – Summary of Using Virtual Marketplaces for your E-commerce Initiative (intracen.org)   ITC ITC SME Trade Academy – Summary of Creating Quality E-commerce Content (intracen.org)   ITC ITC SME Trade Academy – Summary of E-Commerce for your B2B Business (intracen.org)   Google Free Online Marketing & Career Courses – Google Digital Garage – Google Digital Garage (learndigital.withgoogle.com)   Google Skillshop tutorials on using Google Ads Google Ads : Google (exceedlms.com) and Get a business online – Google Digital Garage (learndigital.withgoogle.com)   PayPal How to Sell Internationally | PayPal US