People around the world make millions in the import-export business and you can, too, if you’re willing to think outside the box. Mexico is an area rich in handicrafts, from the silver and jewelry of the Colonial Highlands to the rugs and pottery of Oaxaca, and there is a healthy market for such items in the U.S. It’s very easy (and legal) to bring or ship these items back to the U.S. for sale, and the profit can be used to fund your next holiday – or buying trip – as the case may be. Doing a little research to see what people are buying in your area or thinking about selling online can help increase profits. For more on this continue reading the following article from International Living.
A fun way to fund your vacations is by having an import-export business—it’s not as complicated as it might sound. It could be simply buying local products in Mexico, like handicrafts, and selling them back home when you return. Mexico makes so many handicrafts that you have plenty of options, from Mexican rugs to silver to pottery and more.
Several regions of Mexico are particularly known for their handicrafts. The state of Oaxaca is one of many villages (within an hour’s drive of the state capital of the same name) to specialize in handicrafts. Here you’ll find hand-loomed rugs; the famous black-glazed pottery; fantastical wooden animals called alebrijes; beaten-tin mirrors, boxes, Christmas-tree ornaments and wall decorations; and pottery figures for tables and gardens.
The Colonial Highlands is another handicraft-rich area. Taxco specializes in silver, including jewelry, crucifixes and other items. San Miguel de Allende has striking tin stars studded with glass that are used as lamps. Pátzcuaro is known for articles made of copper, while other towns specialize in pottery wall decorations, blown glass and leather goods.
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And San Cristóbal de las Casas, in the southern state of Chiapas, is known for weaving, pottery, furniture and amber jewelry, among other things.
For the best prices, go directly to the craftsmen themselves. Locating their workshops and meeting the best craftsmen can be an adventure (or a vacation) in itself.
Naturally, you need to do your homework beforehand, too. Study your home market to see what kinds of handicrafts may sell—and where you can sell them. And in Mexico, especially at first, buy a good sampling of styles and colors to see what sells best back home.
Of course, Mexico isn’t the only country with a wealth of craftsmen creating the type of items you can buy up and sell at home for a profit. Do a little research before your next trip, regardless of your destination, and see what turns up.
Finally, try to avoid the biggest pitfall of the import-export business—liking your merchandise so much that you don’t want to part with it!
This article was republished with permission from International Living.
