Internet opens the world to SMEs

With physical and virtual networks now more converged and ubiquitous than ever before, it is easier than ever for small and medium-sized enterprises to tap into the huge business opportunity of cross-border e-commerce.

Once the exclusive preserve of large multinational corporations, global trade is now available to anybody with a smartphone and a dream. Global logistics providers know this, because these entrepreneurs are our customers. We recently profiled one inspiring example - a small-business owner named Llewellyn Clarke from the tiny Caribbean island of Nevis, who manufactures hot pepper sauce.

Anybody, anywhere with an Internet connection can order the sauce and have it delivered to their doorstep. For thousands of e-tailers like Llewellyn around the world, this represents tremendous business opportunities.