Getting an overview of your market
Researching potential market needn't be a costly exercise. You can gather general information such as market size, projected market growth rates, trends and developments, political and economic risks and legal requirements relatively easily through desk/internet research.
As a good starting point, we recommended the following sources of general market information:
Country profiles and market reports
We can help you research business opportunities in key international markets by providing country profiles, market reports, sector briefings plus tips and guidance from our in-country managers across our network of global offices.
Get an overview of key export markets such as US and Europe, plus emerging markets such as Brazil, Russia, India and China. Help is also available to support your company in those markets.
Explore country markets
Language and cultural differences
We can help you get a better understanding of the different ways of doing business in overseas markets.
Read through our Smart Exporter 'doing business in' country guides for a deeper insight into business cultures, languages and practices in international markets.
Go to our export markets section to download guides
Know your market events
Identifying and understanding new markets are a key part of a successful exporting strategy.
Our Smart Exporter events held across Scotland throughout the year will introduce you to new markets and help you identify opportunities for your business.
Each event includes:
- Market overview
- One-to-one sessions with international market advisors
- Case study presentations
- Networking sessions
Read more about the benefits of attending our know your market events
Sign up for our trade and export newsletter for all the latest news, views, advice and events to help you explore new markets.
Access to partner services
We work in partnership with UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) – the UK Government’s trade promotion agency, which works to boost the UK’s export performance.
Scottish-based companies can access UKTI services through Scottish Development International.
Services to help you export
Insights into global markets
The US government profiles countries and territories around the world. You can access these profiles for insights into potential markets via the the CIA World Factbook.
Find information about a market's history, people, government, economy, geography, communications, transportation and military on the World Factbook website.
Building overseas connections
Gain tips and advice from our experts in the field and share best practice with other Scottish companies already successfully exporting.
We can also help you find new business opportunities by putting you in touch with sector and country experts closest to your target market.