While uncertainty is uncomfortable, you can choose to either run from the uncertainty, pause and do nothing, or seize the moment. In today’s complex global economic landscape, businesses face a range of uncertainties—from shifting tariff regimes to evolving immigration policies. For international small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) eyeing expansion into the United States, these conditions may appear daunting. However, with thoughtful planning, strategic decision-making, and the right local partnerships, these challenges can become opportunities. This is particularly true for companies considering foreign direct investment (FDI) in the Southeastern United States, a region known for its business-friendly environment, skilled workforce, and robust infrastructure.

While others wait on the sidelines, you should consider what you can do right now to organize a successful strategy to gain access to the United States market. Larger companies have staff looking at expansion plans five and ten years in the future. Most businesses do not have that luxury. So . . . how can SMEs navigate uncertain times successfully?

As attorneys who assist international and United States-based clients looking to establish a location in the Southeast United States, we have seen firsthand how prudent preparation transforms uncertainty into a competitive advantage. Here are some key strategies that SMEs should consider when planning to expand into the United States during these turbulent times.

1. Take Action Now, Even if Conditions Are Uncertain

One of the most common mistakes companies make is waiting too long to act. The rapid evolution of technology and systems creates the need for businesses to stay at the forefront in order to remain competitive. It takes months to implement a major move, and businesses often find themselves playing catch up. Even if your business must wait to open its doors in the United States, there are simple yet crucial steps you can take today. Establishing a legal entity, identifying consultants, and securing local relationships can all be pursued while broader policy uncertainties play out. These actions lay the groundwork for rapid mobilization once conditions stabilize.

2. Understand the Ramp-Up Time

The process of establishing a United States-based business presence, especially one that is fully functional with banking, staffing, legal, and operational readiness, typically takes six to eight months, at a minimum. Delaying the initial steps could mean missing valuable opportunities down the road. Conversely, initiating preparations early ensures that your business can become operational as soon as the timing is right.

3. Consider Strategic Acquisitions

Tariffs, economic pressures, and regulatory unpredictability affect companies differently. Some competitors may be more exposed to current disruptions and become vulnerable to acquisition. For well-capitalized international businesses, this represents a strategic opportunity to gain market share, acquire skilled labor, and access existing customer bases. Due diligence and legal guidance are critical here, but the potential rewards can be substantial. In addition, if you are considering acquiring a domestically based United States company, the weakened dollar should give foreign companies a unique advantage that may not have existed previously.

4. Assemble Your Advisory Team Early

The complexity of entering the United States market demands expert and trusted guidance. Basic questions should be answered now. Trusted advisors will help dispel myths about business in the United States and will set you on a path to success. Your core advisory team should include:

• Attorneys: Local legal counsel will help you navigate regulatory requirements, structure your entities properly, create United States compliant forms, negotiate contracts, and mitigate liability.
• Local economic development groups: Many regions have local economic development entities who are eager to help you succeed. Such groups can help make connections, identify opportunities, and make available key information on the region, potential customers and partnerships.
• Certified Public Accountants (CPAs): A CPA with international experience can advise on tax structure, compliance, and financial reporting. Note: Unlike in the European Union and other countries, CPAs and attorneys are separate service providers in the United States.
• Consultants: Sector-specific consultants, including site selection providers, real estate brokers, and human resources advisors will provide market intelligence, help with location selection, and offer operational insights.

Early engagement with professionals ensures that your plans are realistic, compliant, and tailored to your long-term goals. Now is the time to contact and engage with these valuable resources. In doing so, you will prevent costly mistakes, and you will be able to do what you do best: focus on core operations. It cannot be overstated that identifying local professionals with proven track records will a key determining factor in future success.

5. Build Financial Infrastructure

Establishing credit in the United States is often overlooked, but it is critical. Creditworthiness influences future financing needs, lease negotiations, vendor terms, and even employee recruitment. SMEs should identify and cultivate relationships with United States banking partners who understand the needs of international clients and can provide tailored financial products. Developing these relationships early ensures your business has the financial tools to operate efficiently and to scale.

6. Identify and Plan for Immigration Needs

Immigration remains a highly fluid area of United States policy. For businesses planning to transfer executives, managers, or skilled personnel to the United States, understanding visa categories is vital. Whether you need executive transfers under an L-1 visa, E-2 investor visas, or H-1B specialty occupation visas, early legal consultation helps avoid delays and will ensure personnel can enter and remain in the United States lawfully. A knowledgeable legal team can help craft a strategy tailored to your needs.

7. Focus on the Core Business

While long-term planning is critical, it’s equally important to focus on daily operations. International expansion should enhance, not detract from, your business’s core competencies. Delegating aspects of the United States expansion to advisors allows leadership to remain focused on performance and profitability. Do not let small matters become distractions, and engage with professionals who you trust will handle the implementation of your expansion.

8. Prepare to Scale Quickly

By planning in advance, your business can respond swiftly when market conditions become more favorable. This includes:

• Having your United States entity legally formed
• Obtaining a solid understanding of tax structures
• Initiating banking relationships
• Addressing any liability questions regarding operations in the United States
• Identifying potential office or warehouse locations
• Developing employment policies and recruitment pipelines
• Securing intellectual property protections
• Creating contracts and terms and conditions to be used with customers and service providers
• Ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations

This foresight ensures a seamless launch rather than a reactive scramble. Think of this as setting up a turnkey operation. When the environment is right, you’ll be ready to act quickly and effectively.

9. Positive Examples: Success Stories in the Southeast

The Southeastern United States has welcomed many international companies that planned effectively and weathered economic and political uncertainties. Here are a couple of examples:

• A mid-sized German manufacturing firm began its United States expansion by establishing a representative office in South Carolina. Despite initial hesitation due to COVID, the company used that time to create its South Carolina limited liability company, build relationships, establish credit, and identify a site. When conditions improved, the company was able to move into its offices within weeks.
• A Belgian automotive supplier began United States expansion planning during a time of heightened tariffs on aluminum and steel. Despite the uncertainty, they secured legal and financial advisors, formed an entity in the state it wanted to operate in, identified a facility to lease, and applied for immigration visas for key personnel. When tariffs were later relaxed, they were able to immediately begin operations and secure contracts ahead of less-prepared competitors.
• A Canadian food products company entered the United States market by acquiring a struggling competitor based in the Southeast United States. They negotiated an acquisition, retained key staff, and used the competitor’s infrastructure to pivot into the United States market. By leveraging the existing workforce and customer base, it accelerated its market presence and profitability far faster than a stand-alone investment would have allowed.

10. Choose the Right Location – Consider the Southeast

The Southeastern United States offers a compelling value proposition for international businesses. States like South Carolina, Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee feature:

• Competitive labor markets and workforce development programs
• Competitive cost of living
• Access to major ports and transportation hubs
• Business-friendly tax and regulatory environments
• Pro-business state governments

These advantages persist regardless of short-term federal policy shifts. For businesses willing to plan ahead, the Southeast presents a fertile ground for long-term growth.

Conclusion: Be Ready Before the Window Opens

Uncertainty should not lead to inaction. Strategic preparation during volatile times is a hallmark of successful companies. While no one can predict the exact trajectory of tariffs or immigration policies, opportunity favors the prepared. Businesses that take action today—even small, incremental steps—will be best positioned to succeed tomorrow. Assembling a knowledgeable support team, identifying strategic opportunities, and putting foundational elements in place will allow your business to survive this period of uncertainty, and thrive in the market ahead.

The United States, and especially the Southeast, remains a premier destination for business growth. Don’t wait. Prepare now, act wisely, and be ready to seize the moment when clarity returns.