In 2015, a young entrepreneur named Lisa was searching for a way to escape her monotonous 9-to-5 job. She had always been fascinated by global cultures and unique products, and one day, while scrolling through Instagram, she stumbled upon stunning Turkish towels.
Curious, she did some digging and discovered that these towels were a fraction of the cost when purchased directly from Turkish manufacturers. Lisa saw an opportunity.
With nothing more than her laptop and a small savings account, she set up an online store and began importing Turkish towels to sell on Etsy and Amazon. Within two years, she was running a six-figure business—all thanks to the power of the internet.
Lisa’s story isn’t unique. It’s an example of what’s possible when you combine curiosity, resourcefulness, and the boundless opportunities of the digital age. If you’ve ever dreamed of building wealth through international trade but thought it was beyond your reach, I’m here to tell you that the barriers are lower than ever. With a laptop, a reliable internet connection, and a bold attitude, you can uncover profitable import and export opportunities that can transform your financial future.
In this article, I’ll show you how to use the internet to find and exploit these opportunities. I’ll share real-world examples, actionable steps, and insights to help you move forward boldly—because the only thing standing between you and global trade success is your willingness to start.
Step 1: Identify Niche Markets with High Demand
The first step in any successful import/export venture is identifying a product or service with high demand in one market and an abundant supply in another. The internet makes this easier than ever. Start by exploring platforms like:
- Google Trends: Discover what people are searching for in different countries. For example, eco-friendly products are trending worldwide. Could you export bamboo cutlery from Vietnam to the U.S.?
- Alibaba and Made-in-China: These platforms are gold mines for sourcing products. Search for items that are inexpensive to produce but highly desirable in your target market.
- Statista: This site offers market research data to help you identify emerging trends and demands in various industries.
Here’s What Happened: In the late 2010s, there was a surge in demand for Himalayan salt lamps in the U.S. Savvy entrepreneurs sourced these lamps from Pakistan, where the salt is abundant, and sold them for a significant markup through Amazon and eBay. By using platforms like Alibaba to connect with suppliers and Shopify to create online stores, they built thriving businesses.
Step 2: Leverage Online Marketplaces to Test Demand
Gone are the days when you needed a physical storefront or an expensive catalog to test the waters. Today, you can use online marketplaces to validate your ideas with minimal investment.
- Amazon and eBay: Create a seller account and list products to see how they perform. These platforms also provide tools to analyze customer behavior and pricing trends.
- Facebook Marketplace: Ideal for testing demand locally before expanding globally.
- Etsy: Perfect for handmade or unique items that appeal to niche markets.
Here’s What He Did: A small importer in Canada noticed the rising popularity of Turkish towels. By listing a few sample items on Etsy, they quickly validated demand and scaled their operations. They sourced the towels directly from Turkish manufacturers and grew their business into a six-figure operation.
Step 3: Build Relationships with Overseas Suppliers
The internet allows you to connect with suppliers across the globe without ever leaving your home. Building strong relationships with these suppliers is crucial to your success.
- Use platforms like Alibaba, ThomasNet, and Global Sources to find suppliers.
- Always request samples before placing a bulk order to ensure quality.
- Communicate professionally. Tools like Skype, WhatsApp, and Zoom make it easy to stay in touch and negotiate terms.
Tyler Tip: Look for suppliers who are as invested in quality as you are. Don’t be afraid to ask for exclusivity agreements if you plan to scale your business.
See This: A U.K.-based entrepreneur found a small supplier of handwoven baskets in Ghana through Alibaba. By partnering with the supplier and securing an exclusivity agreement, they were able to corner the market for premium baskets on Amazon UK.
Step 4: Find Customers Using Online Tools
Once you have a product, it’s time to find customers. The internet is bursting with opportunities to connect with buyers, whether you’re selling B2B or B2C.
- Social Media Advertising: Platforms like Facebook and Instagram allow you to target specific demographics with laser precision.
- LinkedIn: Perfect for connecting with business buyers. If you’re exporting industrial equipment, for example, LinkedIn can help you find decision-makers in target markets.
- Google Ads: Use pay-per-click advertising to attract customers searching for your products.
In Real Life: A Miami-based entrepreneur imported Italian espresso machines and used Instagram ads to target coffee shop owners across the U.S. Their visually appealing content and targeted campaigns generated leads that turned into repeat customers.
Step 5: Solve Logistics with Technology
One of the most intimidating aspects of importing and exporting is logistics, but technology has simplified this process. Use these tools to streamline your operations:
- Freightos: Compare shipping quotes and manage logistics easily.
- Shippo: Integrates with e-commerce platforms to handle shipping labels and tracking.
- Customs Brokers Online: Services like Flexport can help you navigate import/export regulations.
Here’s How You Do It: A Canadian entrepreneur imported ceramic cookware from Portugal. By using Freightos to find affordable shipping solutions and Shopify to handle online sales, they turned a small side hustle into a thriving full-time business.
Step 6: Stay Ahead with Continuous Learning
The internet is not static, and neither is the world of trade. Staying informed about market trends, regulatory changes, and technological advancements is essential. Bookmark these resources:
- Export.gov: Offers guides on exporting and information about trade agreements.
- Trade.gov: Provides valuable insights into international markets and business opportunities.
- Reddit and Online Communities: Join forums where importers and exporters share their experiences and tips.
- ATTAIN : The Official International Wealth Success Companion and Guide to Wealth Building Since 1966: IW$’s publication monthly publication reveals real-world insights, leads, resources, and contacts that will help you make a fortune from both importing and exporting.
Remember When?: During the COVID-19 pandemic, demand for PPE surged globally. Entrepreneurs who stayed informed through online resources were able to pivot quickly and supply masks, gloves, and sanitizers to markets in need.
Step 7: Tap into Financing Options
Don’t let limited capital stop you from seizing opportunities. The internet offers a range of financing options tailored for import/export businesses:
- Trade Credit: Negotiate payment terms with suppliers.
- Online Lenders: Platforms like Kabbage and Fundbox offer loans tailored for small businesses.
- Crowdfunding: Use platforms like Kickstarter to raise funds for unique products.
Crowds Can Be Useful: A U.S.-based entrepreneur discovered a unique type of biodegradable packaging material in India. By using Kickstarter to raise funds and partnering with an Indian supplier, they launched a successful brand catering to eco-conscious businesses.
Step 8: Scale with E-Commerce
Once you’ve found a profitable product and market, it’s time to scale. E-commerce platforms make it easy to expand your reach:
- Shopify and BigCommerce: Build your own online store with ease.
- Amazon FBA (Fulfilled by Amazon): Let Amazon handle your warehousing and shipping.
- WooCommerce: A great option if you prefer WordPress-based websites.
It’s Easier Than You Think: An entrepreneur importing hand-carved wooden toys from Eastern Europe scaled their business by launching a Shopify store. With the help of email marketing and social media ads, they turned their niche product into a global success.
What’s Your Plan?
You’ve just read the blueprint for turning the internet into your personal gold mine. The tools are there, the opportunities are abundant, and the only ingredient missing is your action.
Remember, every successful entrepreneur started with a single step—and so can you.
As Tyler G. Hicks often said, “Wealth is built by those who take action, while others watch from the sidelines.”
Let today be the day you move forward boldly. Start small, learn as you go, and before long, you’ll have stories of your own to share—stories of success, resilience, and financial independence.
International trade has built empires for centuries. With the internet at your fingertips, you have the power to join their ranks. It’s your time to seize the opportunities, break through the barriers, and create a legacy.
The world is waiting—let’s get started!
ATTAIN : The Official International Wealth Success Companion and Guide to Wealth Building Since 1966
ATTAIN, formerly simply called the IW$ Newsletter, has been published monthly since 1966, is your trusted guide to building wealth and achieving financial freedom. Each issue delivers 16+ pages of actionable insights, including: Money-making ideas for part-time ventures, real businesses, and franchises. Funding sources like lenders, government grants, and real estate financing tips. Export-import trade leads, mail-order opportunities, and cosigner listings. Subscribers also receive a FREE classified ad in every issue, reaching an international audience of entrepreneurs and investors—perfect for finding partners, funding, or selling products. Available in print (U.S. only), PDF by email, or as a lifetime subscription, ATTAIN…