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e-Commerce Project: As an international e-Commerce firm consultant your are given a consulting opportunity by a well-known company [Target] with an online business presence. Your client gave you the task to research B2B and B2C business opportunities in previously unserved markets. —> ***PLEASE TYPE YOUR ANSWER*** <—

• You are required to investigate 4 countries (India, South Africa, Brazil, and Switzerland) for their suitability to create B2B and/or B2C opportunities.

• Your client is willing to make a major marketing push into the countries you advice involving language specific and culturally sensitive TV, radio, print, and internet advertising to announce their business into their countries.

• Long term, the company is prepared to make the necessary investments in warehousing, local storefronts for B2C and data networks and facilities for B2B opportunities.

Your job is to present a case recommending which countries, to expand service, and in what order to service them.

—> Include in your recommendation and insights on the following: <—
1. Issues regarding political economy and economic progress for each country. Consider any relevant information about in economic, political, and legal systems.
2. Issues related to market. That is, whether a market exists for your client’s products, and how/why e-Commerce is a better option than other entry modes.
3. Production and supply chain issues/advantages with recommendations about whether to develop warehouse facilities in the country and why. If developing warehouse facilities is recommended, provide advice on whether to invest in a greenfield development, acquire a company in the host country, opt for a joint venture or lease warehouse location.
4. Include in your discussion factors such as shipping costs, local infrastructure, availability of labor and other resources, suggested organizational structure and localization requirements.
5. You might find all, some, or all countries suitable or unsuitable in either B2B or B2C, or both. The purpose is to investigate each country’s suitability and provide recommendations based on the above criterion.