For years, leading global companies have based their strategies on important realities. International trade and investment become more liberalized every day, driving GDP growth in countries worldwide. Global trade is governed by multilateral rules and institutions, and digital platforms and technologies have reshaped this process. To gain a cost leadership advantage, companies must continuously expand their footprint in global markets to procure raw materials and other production inputs at a lower cost and be able to offer their products for the benefits of sales in almost any market.

Geopolitical changes, the emergence of disruptive technologies, and changing cost structures around the world are constantly upending the assumptions of international business, causing companies to face various risks in the rapidly evolving and increasingly complex international business environment. However, within these transformations lie abundant opportunities that undoubtedly bring many advantages to companies that align their strategies with international markets.