Understanding the business environment of the Middle East, with its many nuances and foreign investment limitations,
is a key requirement for regional inbound investors.
Firstly, one requires a thorough knowledge of the legal framework and government regulations, from import and export,
to tax regimes, business structures, labour laws, and restrictions on foreign capital.
Secondly, having an inside knowledge of exactly how these things work, and how to actually get them done is often
invaluable. We offer insight into the region in terms of the local power structure and balancing cultural differences
and other areas of sensitivity unique to the region. The Middle East is a region which is currently experiencing
massive growth, and as such is in a state of flux, either in terms of evolving its policy or more simply finding the
best way to get things done.
Traditionally the two most common ways of doing business in the region are either by joint venture or by agency
agreement (using sales or commission agent). Both of these can have dangerous pitfalls which are easily avoided.
Often it is simply a matter of finding the right partner, or ensuring the all the correct considerations have been
made prior to any contracts being agreed upon. There are also an increasing amount of trade free zones in the region;
whilst they are often not as practical or simple as they might appear on first impressions, they can provide a very
viable option for some businesses.
However, not knowing "what to do" and "what not to do", can be a major handicap to incoming businesses. Even
obtaining data, statistics, or business information, can often be costly or impossible, relying on rumour or simply
on what some sources tell you - can be dangerous. Having experience in this region allows us to help you negotiate
the relevant assault courses to ensure that your business lands on its feet in the safest possible manner.
