Trade shows and exhibitions

Attending trade fairs abroad, either as an exhibitor or a customer, can be an excellent way to test and open up foreign markets and find new suppliers.

If you're thinking of exhibiting, it's a good idea to make an exploratory visit first. This allows you to:

• make contacts
• do some research
• see the competition.

You should then be well placed to find the right fair and position your business effectively.

Getting help

Some obvious issues to consider are differences in language and legislation. More difficult to pin down are cultural aspects of doing business in other countries. Try getting information from:

• the country's embassy in the UK
• international Chambers of Commerce
• foreign trade associations

Read more about the available support from Invest Northern Ireland to help local businesses to take part in overseas exhibitions.