Thinking to go global? Explore our latest insights into international expansion – from company readiness, to product-market fit, international marketing, culture and more…
China’s chocolate market is one of the most intriguing frontiers for global confectionery brands: small in per capita consumption, yet full of long-term promise. While the average Chinese consumer eats less than 0.2 kilograms of chocolate per year
Over the last few years, my team and I at Dearin & Associates have had the privilege of working with clients and partners across almost every continent. The scope of our work has been wide and varied: different markets, different industries, different business models.
Vietnam is one of ASEAN’s most promising consumer markets, with a population of around 100 million, a “golden” demographic structure and a growing appetite for international flavours. Yet success demands more than product quality.
When people think of beauty powerhouses, South Korea is usually top of mind. After all, it’s home to K-dramas, dazzling idols turned brand ambassadors, and a pop culture presence that’s hard to miss.
When a U.S. President who spent much of the year rolling out sweeping tariffs suddenly announces a reversal on staples like beef, coffee and bananas, it’s a signal worth unpacking. Over the weekend the Trump administration dropped duties on more than 200 food-imports — including beef, coffee, bananas and orange juice.
If you’re mapping out your Asia strategy, the Philippines might not be the first market that springs to mind, but it probably should be. With more than 110 million people, a young, urbanising population
I was sitting on the train the other day when a young girl tugged at her mother’s sleeve and asked, “Who’s driving the train?” Without hesitation, her mum simply replied, “It’s driverless, darling.” That was it.
The COVID-19 pandemic might be behind us, but its aftershocks are still shaping the way we live and work. What started as a temporary fix: Zoom calls, virtual meetings, endless webinars quietly became our new normal.
The smell of garlic bread fresh from the oven. The stretch of hot mozzarella from slice to slice. The glow of that familiar red logo. For years, Pizza Hut was more than a restaurant; it was a rite of passage, supplying countless birthday parties, after-school hangouts, and sleepovers.
Across the world, the meaning of work is being rewritten. From Japan to China to the US, new workforce movements are emerging, serving as a quiet signal of frustration, fatigue, and adaptation in the face of deep economic and social change. For many, these aren’t deliberate acts of rebellion but
I was watching Sky News the other night when a journalist described one of Donald Trump’s deals as “devoid of complexity and history. It was meant as an insult, a way of saying he’d oversimplified something that demanded nuance.
Taiwan is one of those markets that often flies under the radar. It’s sometimes overlooked in broader discussions about Asia, yet full of opportunity for brands that take the time to understand it.
Recently, the US administration announced a new wave of tariffs, including a 100% levy on branded pharmaceuticals entering the United States from October 1, 2025.
Expanding into Asia can completely change the game for your brand. It’s exciting, full of potential, and offers access to some of the world’s fastest-growing consumer markets. That’s if you get it right.
Once upon a time, Lindt was the stuff of Christmas stockings and duty-free splurges. Now you can find a “Dubai-style” $20 block of chocolate wedged between KitKats and Tictacs at the Coles checkout. Is this clever retail strategy, a sign of shifting tastes
You’ve definitely seen them around…I’m talking about these quirky little figures that have taken global markets by storm, and now the craze has finally landed in New Zealand. Fashionably late, but no less fierce.
Australia Post has suspended most parcel deliveries to the United States effective immediately, leaving thousands of Australian exporters scrambling for alternatives.
As the August 1st tariff deadline passed, the United States followed through with a series of trade policy changes that sent fresh shockwaves through the global economy.
In today’s crowded marketplace, most brands are racing against the clock. And it makes sense. When the average consumer’s attention span lasts just a few seconds, speed almost feels like survival. Launch fast, post often, stay visible.
In today’s market, speed and efficiency matter more than ever. Brands are under pressure to do more with less: less capital, less time, less complexity. That’s why a new playbook is taking hold: instead of building entire distribution systems from scratch..
When uncertainty hits, companies start slashing costs. And which department usually ends up first on the chopping block? You guessed it: marketing.
Recently, I was asked about the investment required to establish an in-house B2B sales team. Unlike B2C models with online sign-ups, B2B sales involve a different, more complex process. And this can be hugely expensive and high-risk if you don’t get it right.
In 2024, the APAC snacks and confectionery market was valued at over US$64 billion, and Southeast Asia accounts for a significant and fast-growing share of that figure.
When Starbucks first entered China in 1999, many were sceptical. How could a Western coffee chain succeed in a country with a 5,000-year-old tea tradition? At face value, it seemed like a cultural mismatch destined to fail – coffee simply wasn’t part of daily life in China. Yet today, with
For European FMCG and mum and baby brands exploring the Chinese market, the 618 Shopping Festival isn’t just another sales event. It’s a live masterclass in how digital retail really works in China, a month-long glimpse into what moves consumers, which platforms are evolving fastest, and how national policy shapes shopper behaviour.
AI is everywhere. From automated emails to sales chatbots, businesses are being optimised, streamlined, and in many cases, dehumanised.
Australia has some of the world’s strictest biosecurity and import compliance protocols, making it both a high-potential and high-risk destination for global brands. For premium food, beverage, and beauty companies, this is not a market you can afford to approach casually. In the first quarter of FY24 alone, the Australian
Though geographically distant, Australia has emerged as a highly attractive market for premium European consumer brands. Its multicultural population, political stability, and strong purchasing power continue to draw significant foreign direct investment.
As a premium Francophone F&B manufacturer, you may overlook Australia in favour of larger export markets like China or the United States. But do not underestimate the potential down under. Australia ranks among the world’s wealthiest nations by per capita income. Its consumers are willing to pay a premium for
Expanding internationally is a lot like getting married. You’ve found a distributor who gets your product, speaks your language (both literally and figuratively), and radiates unshakable enthusiasm for your brand. It feels like a match made in heaven. You picture your products flying off the shelves, the customers falling in
In global trade, distributors often operate behind the scenes, but their efforts are indispensable when it comes to entering international markets. While much of the spotlight goes to product innovation and brand positioning, distributors take on the complex, creative work of making someone else’s vision succeed in a new market.
Just as international markets begin to recover from Trump’s Liberation Day Tariff saga, another disruptive policy is looming – one with serious implications for globally mobile professionals, international businesses, and the advisors who support them. On May 22, the U.S. House of Representatives narrowly passed the One Big Beautiful Bill
There’s something deeply human about crossing boundaries. For centuries, people have left the safety of their clans in search of something better: a new trade route, fertile land, greater opportunity. In business, going global is the modern equivalent of going “over the hill.” But here’s the paradox: while the tools
Just when you thought Trump tariffs were old news, they’re back in the headlines. Last week, two colleagues told me that “no one was talking about tariffs anymore” … turns out they spoke too soon. If you’ve been following the story, you’ll recall that on 2 April, the President issued
Maintaining brand consistency is the foundation for building trust and loyalty with your customers. But when expanding internationally, simply sticking to the same formula won’t cut it. Adapting your brand to align with local cultures, norms, and preferences is just as critical for success. Get it right, and you can
A significant shift in U.S. financial policy is on the horizon — and it could affect many globally mobile individuals and the advisers who support them. On May 22, the U.S. House narrowly passed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (215-214), which includes a proposed 3.5% excise tax on international
After four years working behind the scenes at Dearin & Associates, I’ve done a lot, launched landing pages, fixed bugs, tested new tools, stared at code until my eyes glazed over (true story). But this? This blog post? It’s a first. And honestly, it feels like a privilege. Recently, I
Expanding into international markets often involves partnering with contract manufacturers (CMs) to scale production. When done right, a reliable CM can reduce costs, boost efficiency, and help you meet global demand. But this decision is far from straightforward. Too many companies dive into international expansion, assuming their contract manufacturer will
Taking your business to a new market can be exciting and daunting, particularly if you’re experiencing rapid growth in Australia. There is the promise of larger overseas markets like China or the US, but rushing in without proper market research can lead to costly mistakes, false starts, inefficient marketing spend
Do You Really Need an ERP to Succeed? For years, ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems have been seen as the backbone of efficient supply chain management. While they are powerful, they’re not always the right solution for every business. Many companies hesitate to invest in an ERP due to high
Trump’s new tariffs are shaking up global trade — but the impact won’t stop at physical goods. In the latest twist, the former president has granted a 90-day pause on tariffs for many trading partners, dialing duties back to a 10% baseline. But not for China. A steep 125% tariff
“The bell on a tiger’s neck can only be untied by the person who tied it.” – China’s Ministry of Commerce Tensions between the US and China are escalating once again. Both countries have recently imposed steep tariffs on each other’s imports — in some cases, as high as 125%,
When President Trump announced sweeping new tariffs on 2 April 2025, markets reeled. Stock indices nosedived. Trading partners scrambled. Global supply chains, already strained, shuddered under the weight of uncertainty. It felt like a rupture, a radical shift in the rules of global trade. But in reality, this is just
Just as international businesses were getting used to calmer trade waters, the tariff tide is rising again—and fast. On April 2, President Donald Trump announced a sweeping new round of tariffs, including a universal 10% levy on all imports to the US, and a punishing 60% tariff on goods from
On 2 April, the Trump administration unveiled its long-promised “Liberation Day” tariffs. These new tariffs, which the White House has badged as “reciprocal” tariffs apply to 180 countries – almost every trading partner the United States has. President Trump justified the tariffs by claiming that the US has been “looted,
The High Cost of Doing Nothing Supply chain management has never been more complex. Companies across every industry are grappling with increased consumer demand, global disruptions, and the constant pressure to reduce costs while improving efficiency. Yet, many businesses still rely on outdated systems or manual processes that lead to
Bad Data = Bad Business Poor inventory data = missed orders. Slow updates = lost revenue. Disconnected systems = frustrated suppliers and customers. Data quality issues disrupt supply chains and create costly inefficiencies. Bad data quality in business can often feel like the blind leading the blind. Without accurate data,
If you’ve been following our blog, you may remember our recent article on how to spot and prevent impersonation scams in 2025. Today, we’re diving into another growing cyber threat: phishing scams. Unlike traditional hacking, phishing doesn’t rely on breaking through firewalls—it exploits human psychology. Scammers prey on urgency and
2025 has barely begun, and yet the global trade landscape is already shifting dramatically. From Washington to Beijing, foreign policies are changing, alliances are being tested, and industries are bracing for impact. For MSMEs looking to expand internationally, these shifts present both risks and opportunities. New tariffs, trade barriers, and
As micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) expand into international markets, they become prime targets for impersonation scams. These fraudulent schemes not only threaten financial stability but also damage hard-earned reputations and erode customer trust. Understanding how these scams operate and how to protect against them is crucial for safeguarding
The Hidden Cost of Manual Data Entry Manual order processing, inventory updates, and data reconciliation are time-consuming and error-prone. These inefficiencies add up: Every year, supply chain inefficiencies cost businesses millions. 50% of these inefficiencies are caused by manual processes. It’s the classic horror story: An urgent order gets emailed
As the world’s largest economy and a dominant force in global trade, the United States is once again at the center of global attention following Donald Trump’s return to power. Within his first week back in office, President Trump signed 45 Executive Orders—several of which have important implications for international
When companies scale internationally, finding the right channel partners is a big milestone. But once you’ve secured them, the next challenge is equipping them with the tools they need to market and sell your products effectively. Pricing books, ordering processes, and supply chain logistics are important, but increasingly, we’re seeing
As I wrote in my recent piece, Is Goal-Setting Just A Bunch of Hype? the process of setting goals promises great things for companies but often falls short. However, when done correctly, goal-setting can be a game-changer, especially for businesses in a scale-up or international expansion phase. Over the past
Happy Chinese New Year! As we usher in the Year of the Snake, it’s the perfect time to talk about one of the most exciting and dynamic retail markets in the world—China. Have you ever wondered what it would take to crack the code for this market? It’s no walk
Expanding into international markets is an exciting milestone for any business. However, one of the most complex challenges you’ll face is pricing your product competitively and profitably across diverse global markets. The stakes are high: price too low, and you risk eroding profit margins; price too high, and you may
It’s January and as we start the new year the internet is awash with posts about goal-setting. Particularly popular these days is the contrarian theme “why goal-setting doesn’t work” and you may be wondering, “Is it true? Is goal-setting just a bunch of hype?” My personal belief is that goal-setting
Expanding your business internationally is an exciting opportunity—but let’s be honest, it comes with a hefty price tag. For micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) like yours, finding the right funding to scale globally is often the biggest challenge. It’s no surprise that a lack of financing is one of
Congratulations, your business has done so well in Australia – it’s time to bring your success into another market. Introducing your brand into a new territory is exciting, but it can be just as challenging. Take it from my years of experience working with companies in Southeast Asia, I have
In today’s interconnected global economy, sustainability and ethical practices are no longer optional for businesses looking to expand internationally —they are essential. As more governments implement regulations to curb unsustainable practices and consumer preferences shift toward ethical companies, businesses must prioritise sustainability to thrive in global markets. In this blog,
As we step into 2025, the fashion industry is building on the successes of 2024 while pivoting towards a transformative year as consumers seek sustainability, authenticity, and innovation. Let’s look at the trends likely to define the fashion landscape, including what worked in 2024 and what’s on the horizon. 1.
The global digital transformation of the last few years has revolutionized how companies operate and expand internationally. Businesses can now be run remotely and staffed by teams spread across the globe, and international transactions can be sent and approved instantly. Companies have unprecedented opportunities to connect with diverse customers through
With his plan to impose sweeping tariffs on imports—including a steep 60% levy on Chinese goods—President-elect Trump has set his sights on drastically reshaping US trade policy. As companies brace for potential price hikes, supply chain disruptions, and market shifts, business leaders around the globe are wondering what they can
Australia has long been a global leader in the mining sector, renowned for its abundant mineral resources, stable political environment, and world-class infrastructure. The industry is a cornerstone of the Australian economy,contributing significantly to GDP, employment, and export revenues. However, the sector is also facing increasing challenges, such as environmental
Many companies that I speak to – both in the SME sector and at the big end of town – face challenges with getting paid on time (or at all) when they sell to customers overseas. In the worst-case scenario, payment problems may force a company out of business in
The upcoming U.S. election isn’t just a simple domestic issue; it could have wide-ranging effects on world trade. Rules on international economic relations, particularly with large players like China and the EU, as well as key trading partners such as Australia, could be dictated by policy from Donald Trump or
Interested in expanding your business internationally and learning more about international modes of market entry? Pick up a copy of my latest book, Business Beyond Borders: Take Your Company Global. In my previous posts, I discussed two of the lower-risk strategies when it comes to international mode of market entry
Interested in expanding your business internationally and learning more about international modes of market entry? Pick up a copy of my latest book, Business Beyond Borders: Take Your Company Global. In my last blog on international modes of market entry, I talked about trading strategies, such as exports and ecommerce.
Interested in expanding your business internationally and learning more about international modes of market entry? Pick up a copy of my latest book, Business Beyond Borders: Take Your Company Global. If you’ve decided to expand your business internationally and chosen a market to enter, you’ll need to decide on a
Interested in expanding your business internationally and learning more about culture? Pick up a copy of my latest book, Business Beyond Borders: Take Your Company Global. As I mentioned in my post Bridging the Cultural Divide, culture has visible and invisible layers, just like an iceberg. The visible aspects of
When expanding internationally, the financial stability of your distributor is just as crucial as your own. An unstable distributor can jeopardize your global ambitions. Instead, aim for a partner who can elevate your business to new heights. This blog will show you why a financially viable distributor is beneficial and
Are you an Australian food manufacturer looking to expand your business internationally? There are almost endless opportunities for international expansion – the world loves Aussie food – but there are also plenty of hoops to jump through regarding government regulations that exporters must comply with. To help you, we’ve compiled
Today, we’re diving into the world of international markets and exploring how to build strong connections that lead to success. One key player in your international journey is finding a distributor with a solid network. Think of the ideal distributor as the bridge to your target market. They’ve got the
Are you seeking to expand your manufacturing or tech business into Southeast Asia? Look no further than Vietnam. With its dynamic and resilient economy, Vietnam offers unparalleled opportunities characterized by its robust manufacturing capabilities, a thriving tech sector, and a wealth of government incentives. Discover why you should consider Vietnam
Interested in expanding your business internationally and learning more about culture? Pick up a copy of my latest book, Business Beyond Borders: Take Your Company Global. I know from experience that one of the key challenges that companies – small and large – face when it comes to international expansion, is
Because ‘going global’ is such an involved process, doing competitor analysis is often overlooked. Myths abound in this space. CEOs say things like “we’re just going to focus on what we do and not get hung up on the competition” or “we’re just a small company, we don’t need to
International business isn’t usually a big vote-winner when it comes to Australian Federal elections and so measures to make life easier for businesses operating cross-border tend to get overlooked. So you might be surprised to learn that the 2024-25 Australian Budget introduces some significant measures to simplify trade, which will
If you’re a manufacturing or technology company eyeing expansion into Southeast Asia, Indonesia offers a wealth of promising opportunities. Here are four reasons why expanding into this vibrant market could be your next strategic move: 1. Manufacturing Prowess Indonesia stands as a manufacturing powerhouse, surpassing the UK, Russia, and Mexico
If you’re tapping into European markets, you’ve probably heard of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). This game-changing regulation has been reshaping how companies handle data since it came into effect in May 2018. But what does GDPR really mean for your international marketing efforts? Let’s dive in and break
COVID-19 has created huge disruption in some industries and opened up massive opportunities in others. For many companies, there’s never been a better time to ‘go global’, but to do so, you need a tailored international marketing strategy…
In the post-COVID era, the need to diversify supply chains and reduce Australia’s reliance on offshore manufacturers, particularly those located in China, has been a hot topic. Specifically, much has been made of the need to reshore manufacturing to mitigate supply chain risks for Australian companies, and to arrest the
Imagine having a distributor who knows the local market inside and out, ensuring your product not only fits but thrives. Having a distributor who understands your target market is crucial for successful international expansion. They can significantly lower the risk of your product being rejected overseas by tailoring it to
Finding your international distributor is a little like getting married. It’s all about envisioning the future, navigating through uncertainties, and nurturing a relationship that promises growth and success. To put it simply, you have to think long-term. Much like finding “the one”, selecting the right distributor requires careful consideration, compatibility,
What’s happening in fashion? The trends of 2024 As we’re halfway through the year now, it’s a good time to reflect and acknowledge what’s going on in the world around us. The fashion industry is a big part of our daily lives and the global marketplace, with new trends emerging
Expanding overseas is an expensive task. Companies invest in logistics, lawyers, new marketing campaigns, sales strategies and the list continues. Having invested heavily, you do not want your market entry to fail. Yet, for three out of four overseas subsidiaries, failure is the reality. A core reason is that companies
Scaling your venture across multiple markets is still the most effective way of increasing its value… if you get it right. But if you’ve decided to “go global”, which markets should you sell to? Here’s four international market selection mistakes to avoid as you craft your international strategy.
Payroll plays one of the most crucial functions in your business. This department is in charge of calculating the salary, hours worked and additional costs accrued based on the relevant state or national regulations. They are a make or break factor for employees. An American study found that 49% of
Pricing Variables As you price your product, how much you charge depends on how much profit you need to make. If you want to set a price which lets you make money, you’ll need to capture all of your costs. This is critical to making any new product or market
Whether you’re selling in your domestic market or further afield, how you price is critical to how customers perceive value in your offering. Your overall strategy should be reflected in your pricing. In other words, price should not drive your product and service; the results you produce, the service you
There are a number of challenges when it comes to pricing your products for international markets. Companies making everything from air-fryers to software fail to consider how the quirks of the target international market will affect price – they just go with the same pricing strategy they use at home.
If you’re selling internationally you want to be making sales and making a profit, right? And while many businesses work hard to understand how to price correctly at home, most don’t put in the same amount of effort when it comes to international markets. That’s why an awful lot of
Wondering how to get your pricing right? Read on. There are a number of aspects and best practices that you should consider when pricing your products or services and that’s what this blog is about. Here are some of the best practices that you should review and apply to any
With the globe more interconnected than ever before, businesses can say goodbye to geographical boundaries – and hello to international expansion! Businesses are now looking to expand more quickly and smoothly, and are able to grow on a much larger scale. But where do you begin? How do you even
Ok, a quick disclaimer! I am a Man Utd fan – so not only as a fan, but also as a junior buyer, did I feel the pain of the 1996 grey kit fiasco. So this big question is, is history going to repeat itself? As we approach the start
The UK-Australia FTA Comes Into Force At midnight tonight on 31 May 2023, the UK-Australia Free Trade Agreement will come into force, marking the beginning of a new chapter of economic collaboration and abundant opportunities for Australian and British businesses. The landmark agreement was described by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
“The economy doesn’t need us to be working five days a week any more. It was 100 years ago… but the economy has transformed since then.” (Joe Ryle, director of the 4 Day Week Campaign) Results released earlier last month from the UK four-day week trial show an overwhelmingly positive
The 2023 Government Work Report, released earlier this month of March 2023, has proposed to further “improve the social credit system”, bridging gaps in its implementation, the scope of data collected, and adjusting penalties for ‘good’ and ‘bad’ credit ratings. This may come with a higher risk of consequences for
With a growth rate of 20.6% in 2022, the southeastern Asian (SEA) region is forecast to see the fastest growing ecommerce retail growth in the world. Sales of Southeast Asia ecommerce companies are expected to reach $89.67 billion and to cross the $100 billion mark in 2023. There are more
With the Federal election out of the way, Covid on the wane and the war in Ukraine losing its shock value, the global supply chain crunch is the new hot topic. It’s hardly surprising. The cost of freight and logistics skyrocketed by an eye-watering 700% in 2020 and 2021. It
As a tumultuous year comes to a close, it’s time to take a look at how financial market movements have, and are indeed – affecting exporters. The Reserve Bank of Australia has steadily raised rates to 3.1% across the calendar year, in reaction to spiralling costs and inflation (7.3%). From
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