Business internationalisation is always a gigantic step forward and, for that reason, it must be carefully thought out, measured and studied with the highest care, gathering the greatest amount of information possible through the progression. This meticulous process is even more preponderant in highly attractive markets and economical spheres with singular characteristics that can potentially become hinderances if not adequately approached. The market in which Lobbying Africa operates has great potential, but that potential is paired with extremely unique structures and problems, demanding a complex and critical approach.

In a standard scenario – typically western and European – while preparing for the internationalisation of a company, the natural procedure revolves around studying the relevant market, analysing legal obligations, determining the costs associated with the operation and, generally, considering the kind of competition the company might expect. There are no important hidden nuances absent from general knowledge. Deals are executed almost automatically through the standard processes and procedures, without interference or alteration. This is possible because these types of markets have a long work history, the negotiation culture has become homogenized and the focus lies almost entirely on the product itself.

Regarding our scenario in Africa, the reality is drastically different. Obviously, the overall quality of the deal, or the product or service itself, is indeed important and has a significant impact on the final decision. However, there are certain particularities that establish the African market as an unusual one, making it worthy of careful consideration. These are some of the African markets unique elements:

• During the initial phase, Africa can never be considered as a global market. Each country, each population and every single business sphere has a different modus operandi. For example, even considering the same hypothetical deal, with the same goals, it is impossible to use the same strategy for South Africa and for the Central African Republic.
• Local knowledge is the main factor for long-term business sustainability. This native bridge will ensure the proper adaptation of the business to the realities of the environment, and the opposite is not advisable – it never works on African markets.
• The most valuable trump card remains one of the oldest: deep local networking, with a tangible capacity to influence policies and businesses. In an environment where a handshake and a good personal relationship matter the most, the implementation of a capable networking structure is crucial to leverage, unlock and support the internationalisation of any business.

The aforementioned principles, however distinct they may be, mean that business internationalisation in Africa depends on a single solution: Business Lobbying. At Lobbying Africa, we understand that doing business in Africa is not a typical procedure and, therefore, demands the availability of exclusive pathways. Oriented towards the solid implementation of your business in the higher echelon of your market, we can devise a sound strategy that requires the least number of steps to achieve the best results. This is possible due to three simple reasons: we know Africa like the back of our hands, our networking structure is definitely the most comprehensive in the market having local connections in each nation.

Lobbying Africa and our full range of services can help your business successfully integrate into the African market

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