What Online Retailers Must Know Before Entering New International Markets

Here are a list of tips for companies that are on the brink of their first international expansion project:

1. Begin where you are. Forrester predicts that the global online market will double by 2018, and forecasts the fastest growth in China and elsewhere in Asia, Latin and South America. That's where most companies are rushing to establish e-commerce operations first. However, before you hurry to enter today's emerging digital markets, think about expanding your online footprint in markets where you already have a presence through traditional retail channels. By starting from where you already are, you'll develop your skills in international online expansion in a market where the barriers to entry are lower, with an existing customer base, brand recognition and some comfort with the local retail environment.