Taking the Plunge to Import from Asia

1. If, after all this deliberation, you decide to go ahead with your business plan, you can now start with the fun part - buying your stock! Remember that haggling is an art form in most parts of Asia - people expect it and if you are not prepared to engage in it you will end up paying ridiculously high prices for your goods.

2. Taking an initial sample batch of products back to your country is not a bad idea, as it will help you gauge what products are popular and to buy larger amounts of these, and smaller amounts of those that don't sell as well. For this reason, it is a good idea to start out with buying a small selection of all the potential products you have in mind, possibly just two or three of each item. If you intend acting as a supplier rather than a vendor, this will also be your opportunity.

3. A good way to finance a 'sample' trip is by organising a 'home buy' evening to sell your initial stock. Lay your goods out attractively in an appropriate space in your home, buy some cheese and wine, and invite all your friends (along with all their friends) to your sale. This will give you a good idea of the items that people like, incur only minimal additional costs, and hopefully pay your expenses.

4. The next stage is to do a major buy, organise efficient transport for your goods, and set yourself up in your chosen point of sale. Your selling location is an extremely important aspect of your business - in fact, one that can make or break you. Try to ensure that the area in which you set up is busy, and attracts the kind of people who would be interested in what you have to sell. Also be careful of choosing a location where rental prices may be in excess of your profit.