Global Food Marketer®
Educating & Enriching News of Global Food Markets
What International Buyers Look for Before They Place an Order
Many companies believe they're export ready because they have a great product.
While product quality is essential, international buyers evaluate much more before deciding which suppliers to work with.
They assess everything from packaging and pricing to production capacity, certifications, digital presence, responsiveness and reliability before requesting a sample.
For small- and medium-sized businesses, understanding these expectations early on can help create stronger opportunities and more productive buyer conversations.
The good news? Most of these expectations can be addressed before your first buyer meeting.
Food Export offers education, market intelligence and buyer connections to help companies prepare with confidence.
Get export ready and add your sales to the leader board.
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Market Profile
United Arab Emirates
A premium food market where branding, quality and imported products command strong demand.
Market Profile
Indonesia
A fast-growing consumer market where modern retail and expanding middle-class purchasing power are creating new export opportunities.
How prepared is your business for international buyers?
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Your ChecklistExport
Is Your Business Ready to Compete Globally?
International buyers look for suppliers who can deliver more than a quality product. They want confidence that a company understands the market, can meet requirements, and is prepared to build a reliable partnership.
ASK YOURSELF:
Do I know my HS Code and export pricing?
Can I explain my minimum order quantities and lead times?
Are my product specifications and certifications ready?
Do I have product samples available?
ASK YOURSELF:
Why should buyers choose my product?
Does my website build credibility?
Can my brand message connect with international customers?
ASK YOURSELF:
Have I researched the buyers I'll meet?
Have I prepared my key messages?
Do I understand local business culture?
Do I have a follow-up plan?
Food Export helps companies strengthen every stage of the export journey, from education and market research to buyer engagement and international expansion. 1. Your Product
Are my sales materials ready to share?
ASK YOURSELF:
Have I researched consumer trends and buyer demand?
Do I understand my competitors?
Do I know import requirements and market regulations?
ASK YOURSELF:
Are my logistics and shipping options established?
Do I understand documentation requirements?
Can I support larger orders while maintaining quality?
PREPARATION CREATES OPPORTUNITY.
The strongest exporters prepare long before the first buyer conversation.
3. Your Brand Story
5. Your Sales Approach
Bottom Line
2. Your Market
4. Your Operations
The ChecklistBuyer’s
What International Buyers Look for Before They Buy
International buyers look for suppliers who can deliver more than a quality product. They want confidence that a company understands the market, can meet requirements, and is prepared to build a reliable partnership.
BUYERS ASK
Is this company export ready?
Buyers need confidence that suppliers can meet demand, maintain quality, and support ongoing orders.
Build your export foundation with:
Export Essentials Online
Educational Webinars
Export Readiness Program
Is this product right for my market?
Buyers want suppliers who understand consumer preferences, market trends and local expectations.
Gain market knowledge through:
Market Builder
Virtual Consultations
Country Market Profiles
Is this a company I want to work with?
Strong buyer relationships start with preparation, communication and trust. Build connections through:
Buyers Missions Focused Trade Missions Food Show PLUS!
Buyers look for partners who are prepared, reliable and ready to grow with them. Food Export helps companies build the knowledge, resources and relationships needed to compete globally.
The first buyer meeting shouldn’t be your first preparation.
Find the Support That Matches Your Export Goals
Every company starts its export journey from a different place.
Food Export programs are designed to help businesses build confidence, access resources, and continue growing internationally no matter where they are.
Which best describes your business today?
I’m just getting started. Build the knowledge needed before connecting with international buyers.
I am preparing to enter new markets. Build relationships and strengthen your buyer readiness.
Resources to explore:
Export Essentials
Webinars
Export Readiness Program
Resources to explore:
Buyer Missions
Branded Program
Export Navigator
Virtual Consultations
I am already exporting and looking to expand.
Reach new customers and diversify your markets.
Resources to explore:
Focused Trade Missions
Food Show PLUS!
Market Builder
Great products create opportunity.
Preparation helps turn opportunity into growth.
Food Export gives small- and medium-sized businesses the tools, knowledge and connections needed to compete in global markets.