Building an Import/Export Business

Explains international trade, including international transactions, import/export credit and payment, shipping and insurance, regulatory agencies, documentation and customs clearance. Analyzes who can and should go into importing and exporting, how the company should be set up, selecting suppliers, finding customers, choosing target markets, and preparing a business plan. Finally, it discusses trade with the European Economic Community and Eastern Europe.

Foreign trade is a billion dollar business in the United States --and growing. This easy-to-follow guide to starting and building a successful import or export business is packed with invaluable insights and practical advice on tapping into the lucrative global markets. Covering all the bases, from start-up considerations and operational procedures to marketing techniques and trade agreements, this completely updated and expanded edition of Building an Import/Export Business provides essential details on: Determining whether the import/export business is right for you --twenty key questions you should answer before diving in Setting up your business --opening a bank account, establishing your office, obtaining financing, setting up an accounting system Finding buyers --proven strategies to pinpoint your target market Understanding money matters --methods of payment in international trade, export credit and credit insurance, foreign currency transactions Handling documentation --commercial, banking, transportation, insurance, and government formalities documents Taking advantage of trade pacts --GATT, WTO, NAFTA, FTAA