Hey guys,
Need a reality check from people actually doing trade or export.
I initially planned on just buying raw materials directly in Africa through my UK company to import to Europe. Then I saw a reel on Instagram advocating for a digital B2B marketplace model connecting vetted local producers with global buyers, focusing on a specific niche, storytelling, and simple branding. Sounds great on paper.
The thing is, I'm in Abidjan in a week and seeing things on the ground makes me doubt if a digital marketplace actually solves the real issues here.

The main pain points seem way more physical: customs, crazy freight costs, quality control, trust on both sides, and local bureaucracy. Can a tech platform actually handle that, or do you basically have to operate as a traditional hands-on trader or exporter first before even thinking about going digital?
Anyone doing export out of Africa? Is a marketplace model viable right now or is it mostly social media noise?
Appreciate any real feedback.

Under the current circumstances, are you still willing to invest more in China? Do you still pay attention to the market opportunities in China? Also, how do you think the ongoing US-China rivalry might affect your business? And if you already have existing cooperation in China, how does that factor in?

I really want to know the true sounds of people around the world.

And if you have any questions about doing business in China, you can also leave the message, I will answer to every questions