Why Finding Foreign Buyers Matters
Below are the most effective and practical methods for Iranian exporters to find real customers abroad.
Using B2B Websites (Top Export Marketing Method)
International B2B platforms connect exporters directly with global importers. Many buyers actively search for suppliers on these platforms.
Most important B2B websites for finding foreign buyers:
Platform | Description |
Alibaba.com | Largest B2B marketplace; ideal for manufacturers and wholesalers |
Global Sources | Used by serious buyers, especially in electronics & machinery |
TradeIndia | Best for exporting to India |
Made-in-China | Strong for industrial products |
EC21 | Popular in Middle East & Asia |
ExportHub | Good for new exporters |
Kompass | Global B2B directory with verified companies |
Tips for success on B2B websites:
- Upload high-quality product photos
- Write professional descriptions
- Respond to inquiries quickly
- Use verified company profiles
- Optimize listings with keywords like “Iran”, “export”, “wholesale”, etc.
2.2. Using HS Code to Find Buyers (Highly Effective)
Every product has an international HS Code.
You can use this code to identify countries that import your product most and buyers who have already purchased similar goods.
Where to search with HS Code:
- UN Comtrade
- ITC Trade Map
- org
- EU Trade Database
- Chinese Importer Databases
These platforms show:
- Which countries import your product
- Who the biggest buyers are
- Import volumes and prices
- Market trends
This is one of the most scientific and accurate export research methods.
2.3. Email Marketing for Export (Cold Emailing)
Email outreach is still one of the most powerful methods to find international customers.
Steps:
- Build a list of potential buyers (from directories, LinkedIn, B2B platforms)
- Collect their official company emails
- Prepare a professional introduction email
- Send a product catalog or company profile
Follow up after 3–5 days
Sample export cold email:
Subject: Reliable Supplier of [Product Name] from Iran
Dear [Name],
We are an Iranian manufacturer and exporter of high-quality [Product].
We are currently expanding our global markets and would be glad to cooperate with your company.
Attached is our catalog for your review.
Looking forward to your response.
Best regards,
[Company Name]
2.4. Social Media Outreach (Especially LinkedIn)
LinkedIn is currently the No.1 platform for finding foreign buyers.
You can:
- Search buyers by industry
- Message importers directly
- Publish product posts
- Build credibility
- Join export & industry groups
Other useful platforms:
- Instagram (for handmade or lifestyle products)
- Facebook (groups for buyers and sellers)
- YouTube (product showcase videos)
2.5. Attending International Trade Fairs
Exhibitions are one of the fastest ways to find real foreign buyers.
Benefits:
- Meeting importers face-to-face
- Understanding market demand
- Gaining trust quickly
- Networking with distributors & agents
Examples of major fairs:
- Gulfood Dubai
- Canton Fair China
- Anuga Germany
- Automechanika
- Beautyworld Middle East
If attending physically is difficult, many fairs now support online participation.
2.6. Using Trade Maps & Government Databases
These are official and highly reliable sources of buyer information:
- org
- WTO Statistics
- Chambers of Commerce
- Iran Trade Promotion Organization (TPO)
- Embassy Commercial Sections
These sources often provide:
- Verified importer lists
- Market reports
- Buyer contact details
2.7. Hiring a Trade Agent or Export Broker
For companies without export experience, using an export agent can be ideal.
Agents help with:
- Finding buyers
- Negotiating
- Market analysis
- Logistics
- Contracts
They usually take a commission of 3%–10% per deal.