International BlueBlox clients face common challenges when applying for trade licences in Africa or the Middle East.
These can include:
- Dealing with authorities
- Language barriers
- Complicated documentation
- Using a representative who does not have the necessary experience in compliance processes
- Using a representative who does not have the necessary knowledge about the business’s products or trading model
Sound familiar? Here are some pointers to overcome these challenges.
- Know the latest trade registration requirements. This helps you to understand your current status quo and what’s missing.
- Determine your business model. Know what you want to accomplish once you have completed your trade registration process, and understand how the trade licence serves your business model.
- Be prepared. If you operate a non-standard business model – like a service supply chain or Importer of Record model – it’s crucial that your documents are in order, so that you can explain your model to authorities who may be unfamiliar with it.
- Appoint a consultant. Someone who can guide you through the right processes to follow, who understands local legislation and, most importantly, who knows what you can and can’t import into the local market.
- Follow up. Getting a trade licence takes time and requires constant engagement, discussions, and clarifications with authorities. Be prepared for this and be patient.
Remember: every country is different and every trade registration process is different.
Need help with your trade registration? Contact BlueBlox today.
