Includes typical use of agents and distributors and how to find a good partner, e.g., whether use of an agent or distributor is legally required.

Business in the Kyrgyz Republic is largely based on personal relationships.  In an economy where rule of law is not yet firmly established, the quality and depth of business relationships are often the best protection against loss and are key to market access.  Selection of a local partner (or partners) is probably the most important decision a company makes in its market entry.  Though on-the-ground contacts are important, some firms choose to cover the Kyrgyz market from a regional office in Kazakhstan or Russia.

A reliable distributor is the best way to address challenges including communicating with clients and providing after sales service.  Many exporters designate a local trading company as their local sales agent responsible for handling customs clearance of imported goods, dealing with established wholesalers and/or retailers, marketing the product directly to major corporations or the government, and handling after-sales service.  Many Almaty-based distributors cover the Kyrgyz market.
 

Prepared by our U.S. Embassies abroad. With its network of 108 offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. Locate the U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist in the U.S. nearest you by visiting http://export.gov/usoffices.