Aspiring e-commerce entrepreneurs must avoid being trapped in the regulatory maze

Going into business internationally has never been easier thanks to the evolution of e-commerce. It might be simple to set up websites, source or make products, then start taking online orders - but what happens next? Are small businesses ready for the many customs hurdles ahead? FedEx reveals some rules and restrictions that could easily catch out some of Asia's growing number of e-commerce startups.

The Asia-Pacific region is tipped to become the leading market for e-commerce in 2015, making up just over one-third of the global total.

Much of that growth is coming from small to mid-sized businesses that can now participate and help drive global trade in ways well beyond their individual size and stature. Yet grappling with international networks, infrastructure, technology and processes can be a hazardous and time-consuming occupation if small businesses go it alone.