Guide to Internationalizing Your Company through E-Commerce

e-commerce

E-commerce is a powerful way to expand business and reach a global audience and increase both brand awareness and sales volume. In this article you will:

  • Master the steps to internationalization via e-commerce;
  • Learn practical tips for developing a successful e-commerce business;
  • Learn about the main forms of support for investment in e-commerce.

What are the Steps to Internationalizing via E-Commerce?

1. Market Research

Before venturing into a new market… It is crucial to carry out detailed research to understand the business environment, the demand for products/services and consumer behavior in the country. Analyze the local competition and identify opportunities to stand out.

2. Choosing target markets

Consider starting with markets that share similar characteristics with the domestic market or that have a high rate of demand for your products/services. Factors to take into consideration include culture, language, regulations, taxes and payment preferences.

3. Adapt the Website and Infrastructure

Adapt the website to meet the needs of international customers. This may involve translating content, currency conversion, calculating taxes and shipping, and offering various common payment options in the target country. More information on this point can be found in the e-commerce tips.

It is also important to consider that this work involves a significant investment in digital marketing. Check the investment support at the end of the article.

The integration of management software with online sales significantly facilitates stock and sales management, avoiding many problems and customer complaints. It is recommended that the software be technologically integrated with the online store.

Online sales have return rates that, in many cases, exceed 30% of sales. Therefore, the return rate should be considered in the cost structure of the digital internationalization project, as it can be a key factor in the project’s profitability.

Mobile first! It is essential that online sales solutions are prepared for mobile phones, as the trend is for traffic and purchases to be increasingly made through these devices.

4. Logistics and Shipment

Ensure that your logistics strategy is adapted to respond to international orders. This includes selecting reliable shipping partners, scheduling delivery times and managing international returns.

5. Legal Considerations and Regulations

Make sure you comply with all the laws and regulations of the target country regarding e-commerce. This includes aspects such as data protection, tax compliance and import/export restrictions.

6. Local Marketing Strategy

Create a marketing strategy tailored to the target market. This can involve using relevant marketing channels, partnering with local players and understanding cultural preferences to target effective campaigns.

7. Customer Service in Several Languages

Offer customer support in different languages, preferably with staff fluent in the language of the target country. This will help build trust and solve any problems that international customers may face.

8. Security and privacy

Prioritize the security of the website and customer data. This is especially important when dealing with the personal and financial information of international customers. Ensure that you comply with globally recognized security standards.

9. Testing and Monitoring

Before starting international e-commerce operations, rigorously test all aspects of the process: orders, payments, shipments and customer service. Monitor performance regularly and make adjustments as necessary.

Practical Tips for Success in International E-Commerce

  1. Local Partnerships: Consider the possibility of establishing partnerships with local companies to gain valuable market insights and reach an already established customer base.
  2. International SEO: Optimize the website for local search engines. This involves researching keywords relevant to the international target audience.
  3. User Experience (UX): Ensure that the browsing and purchasing experience on the website is intuitive and pleasant for customers from different cultures.
  4. Competitive Pricing: Research and adjust prices to reflect the realities of the international market. Take into account differences in the cost of living and competition.
  5. Promotions and Special Offers: Use specific promotions and discounts for each market, considering local holidays and commemorative dates.
  6. Social Media: Use social media to engage with international customers and build a global community around your brand.
  7. Continuous Improvement: Be willing to learn from customer feedback to adjust the strategy as needed.
  8. Take advantage of investment support opportunities!

E-Commerce Investment Support

With a maximum non-refundable support rate of 50%, this program aims to support companies that want to strengthen their online presence and e-commerce, develop, create and promote brands internationally, carry out international marketing, among others! Check out the support here.

With a maximum non-refundable support rate of 50%, if you want to purchase equipment and software related to implementing strategies applied to digital channels, optimizing management and e-commerce platforms or even creating online stores, this investment support is for you! Check out all the opportunities here.

Think Global, Act Local!

Internationalization via e-commerce offers a world of opportunities. However, it is important to consider that it is a complex and financially demanding process. Financial support from Portugal 2030 and the PRR is essential to help with the process, which involves cultural, legal, and logistical nuances.

By following the practical tips provided in this article and dedicating time to research and planning, your company will be well-positioned to capitalize on the potential of international e-commerce and reach new levels of growth.