Disadvantages of Exporting

• Sometimes higher costs of travelling abroad to obtain orders. High management fees, shipping charges, agent's fees, etc., can sometimes increase the exporter's prices to a level which makes goods and services uncompetitive in overseas markets.

• Market unsuitability. Different cultures, customs and languages can all present problems to the exporter and can mean that a product and service suitable in the UK has virtually no market abroad.

• Import rules and regulations vary between countries. Sometimes rules change rapidly and dramatically.

• Shipping rules and regulations can prove complicated and represent a vast body of knowledge which the exporter will at least have to familiarise him or herself with.

• Currency. That earlier advantage of a strong currency in exchange for a weak sterling might in alternative circumstances prove detrimental to the exporter.

• Collecting long-standing payments and debts can prove a very serious problem, particularly for the small business.