Since launching my import-export business, I've tested nearly every channel available to reach customers. In the beginning, I relied on B2B platforms, trade exhibitions, industry directories, and free B2B sites across different regions. Later, I turned to search engines like Google, overseas visits, and more recently, social media platforms. I've tried them all.

But when I look at the numbers, the method that has delivered the most customers and the highest conversion rates has always been trade data. For an exporting company—whether it's focused solely on trading or a combination of manufacturing and trade—trade data is by far the most efficient client acquisition strategy. It works faster than traditional channels, provided salespeople are willing to dig into the data and refine their searches. Best of all, it opens doors to the entire global marketplace.

So why don't more businesses treat this as their main channel? The reasons are fairly simple. First, there's a cost involved. One of my clients once told me he spent time using low-cost trade data services on the market, only to find the data incomplete and with no guidance or support. Later, after switching to Tendata, he realized the stark difference and regretted not starting there from the beginning. Second, many sales teams misuse trade data. They assume it's like a directory or yellow pages—just grab a list and cold-call every number. That approach usually leads nowhere. The real advantage of trade data lies in filtering and identifying the clients that are truly worth engaging.

Instead of vaguely saying, “I want to get into the import-export business,” it's better to define a sharp objective: “I want to sell this product to this country.” The more specific the target, the more efficient your actions will be.

With Tendata, you can type in a product name or HS code and instantly access buyer lists showing company names, purchasing volume, order frequency, total spend, and even highlight high-value buyers with recent activity. These insights allow you to focus your efforts where they matter most.

For instance, by analyzing a profile such as INTERNATIONAL COMMERCE RECIFE S.A. or KOHLER INDIA CORPORATION PRIVATE LTD. , you can see traded products, order amounts, supply chain structure, and import destinations. These insights help you measure a client's purchasing power and stability while identifying the right timing to approach them. With clear trade trends, you'll know when and how to initiate contact, making conversations smoother and paving the way for lasting cooperation.