Things to Consider When Building an International Business

Things to Consider When Building an International Business
Photo Courtesy: Amirani Azaladze

By: Joshua Finley

Often in business, you have to make the tough choice and get out of your comfort zone to grow. That’s exactly what Amirani Azaladze, founder of B2B Hub, did. Hailing from the Republic of Georgia, Azaldze recognized the limitations of operating solely within the confines of a small market. ā€œI understood that to build something more impactful and influential, I needed to push myself to the next level,ā€ he shares. Thus began his odyssey across various countries, including Greece, United Arab Emirates, Turkey, Poland, and Ukraine.

Before founding B2B Hub, Azaldze established himself as a financial analyst and ran a private investment company in Georgia. His decision to launch B2B Hub stemmed from a growing demand for international business solutions, leading to its official inception in 2020.

Key Differences in Building a B2B Business

Azaladze sheds light on the nuances of building a business-to-business (B2B) enterprise compared to business-to-consumer (B2C) ventures. Shifting from addressing individual needs to tackling complex business challenges such as cash flow management and marketing strategies can be challenging. ā€œB2B can be more complex,ā€ he shares. ā€œYou have to be ready to adapt because things are always changing.ā€

A common pain point for entrepreneurs seeking international expansion is the cumbersome process of establishing legal entities abroad. B2B Hub was established as a solution to this prevalent issue, offering solutions and streamlining the bureaucratic hurdles many global business ventures face.

Things to Consider When Building an International Business
Photo Courtesy: Amirani Azaladze

Why Build an International Business

Entrepreneurship is synonymous with adaptability; expanding beyond borders has become a strategic imperative. ā€œBusinesses must embrace internationalization,ā€ Azaladze shares. ā€œIt’s crucial for staying competitive and even mitigating risks.ā€ He emphasizes the transformative potential that lies in venturing into untapped markets, exploring different locations where businesses can thrive despite initial setbacks in their home countries.

Things to Consider

As businesses look to expand internationally, there are many factors to be considered. Azaladze draws from his years of experience to shareĀ  elements of this transition that every business should take into account before making a move:

Understand the Law

Understanding legal frameworks and tax implications is paramount before venturing into new territories. Azaladze advises entrepreneurs to familiarize themselves with taxation laws and bilateral agreements between countries to navigate regulatory complexities effectively. ā€œYou need to understand the taxation and legal system,ā€ he encourages. ā€œI know so many entrepreneurs who have established a company before doing their research—only to find out that the taxes are crazy there.ā€

Conduct Market Research

Relying on informed market research rather than romanticized notions about countries is essential. Azaladze underscores the importance of objectively assessing market potential and identifying untapped opportunities for business growth. ā€œDon’t just fantasize about how great your company will do in another country—you need to have the research to back it up!ā€

Building Social Capital

Azaladze emphasizes the significance of cultural sensitivity and respect in forging meaningful connections across borders. Whether engaging with a taxi driver or a seasoned entrepreneur, he underscores the value of embracing diversity and immersing oneself in the local culture. By investing time in understanding the historical and cultural context of each country, entrepreneurs can nurture trust and credibility, laying the groundwork for sustainable business relationships.

What’s Next for B2B Hub

As B2B Hub continues its expansion into new territories, Azaladze acknowledges the challenges posed by local agents already established in well-developed markets. However, he remains undeterred in his mission to build trust and establish B2B Hub as the go-to partner for international business solutions globally.

Contact B2B Hub for expert guidance on international business expansion.

 

Published By: Aize Perez

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