Let’s take a look at the difference between starting an international business located in the United States and starting a business located in another country...
If you’re a United States citizen who wants to start a business based in the United States that has an international reach, then you may either be considering using the internet for selling digital goods or services, for instance an information course or online consulting, or you are considering an import-export type of business for selling tangible goods.
In this case, you will primarily abide by United States business laws and tax regulations since that is where the business is physically located and registered. Depending on the nature of your business, you may also have to abide with any regulations by the country or countries you are doing business with. For instance, you may have to comply with tariffs or import-export restrictions. Dealing with the difference in currency exchange rates should not be a problem since you will be able to use established financial channels like an international money transfer.
Since your business is based in the United States, things are fairly straightforward. First, set up your business model; then, comply with all legalities.
Setting up your business model will include writing a business plan, getting any business assistance or training that is necessary to run the business competently, choosing a suitable business location, and financing your business.
Complying with legalities will include deciding on the legal structure of the business, registering the business name, registering for local and state taxes, obtaining any necessary licenses or permits, and fully understanding and complying with your responsibilities as an employer.
If you are a United States citizen who wants to start a business based in another country, it is usually because you see a fresh market opportunity. This same business opportunity may have already become saturated in the United States. For instance, there may be little demand for a certain technology in the United States because there are so many providers, but, in contrast, there may be a huge demand in another country because the technology is relatively unknown and there are few, if any, providers.
When setting up shop based in another country, there are five essential things to consider:
Your business philosophy
Regardless of whether you build a US-based business with an international reach or relocate to another country, the fundamental principles of business philosophy still apply such as hard work and constantly striving for business growth.