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Secondary screening is a stage in the process of international market selection where a business further narrows down potential foreign markets after having conducted an initial primary screening. During primary screening, broad assessments are made to eliminate countries that do not meet basic criteria necessary for the company's products or services, such as economic, political, and legal environments, market size, and growth potential.
Once a list of potentially suitable markets is created through primary screening, secondary screening involves a more detailed and rigorous analysis of the remaining markets. The purpose of secondary screening is to prioritize and identify the most promising markets by examining more specific factors that could affect the success of market entry and operations. These factors often include:
1. Market Accessibility: Evaluating the ease of entering the market, considering trade barriers, tariffs, local business practices, distribution channels, and transportation infrastructure.
2. Competitive Analysis: Assessing the level of competition in the market, including the presence of local and international competitors, their market share, and the competitive advantages they may hold.
3. Customer Analysis: Understanding the target customer segments, their preferences, purchasing power, and consumer behavior patterns.
4. Cost Analysis: Estimating the costs associated with entering and operating in the market, including marketing, distribution, and compliance with local regulations.
5. Regulatory Environment: Examining the legal and regulatory framework, including intellectual property protection, employment laws, and industry-specific regulations.
6. Cultural Fit: Considering cultural differences that might impact product adaptation, marketing strategies, and communication.
7. Risk Assessment: Identifying potential economic, political, and social risks that could affect market stability and business operations.
Secondary screening is a critical step in ensuring that the company focuses its resources on the most viable markets for expansion. It involves both quantitative and qualitative analyses and often requires gathering data from various sources, including market research reports, industry analyses, and in-country assessments. The outcome of secondary screening is a shortlist of target markets that the company will consider for further in-depth analysis, which may include primary market research or even test marketing before making a final decision on market entry.