Starting a business in the Philippines??

[LEAHnew]

Hi all.

In some few years ahed, I will be interested in starting some kind of business in the Philippines, perhaps in Ozamiz?
I am technically minded, and have been thinking about everything from Internet cafes, to operating busses, to just plainly opening a large store.
Am looking for all you ex pats out there that can offer me any tips, or whichever comments you so wish??
Please make them constructive

Thanks alot.

I'm not expat but have business background
........

same here

In my experience we do have Internet cafe in the Phil.(a family biz.) but it's just an add on service coz our shop been partitioned into 2 part.Our main service is photo studio and copy centre. I just convinced my dad to combined it with computer service when I got fed up working in Manila as IT staff, instead I handled our business, and since then our photoshop based in Digital photography.
In this kind of business it's very important to consider the location....were just lucky coz our shop located infront of the Municipal Hall and few miles away to some private schools in our town so it can easily access.
The most demanding service is our Photo Studio since I came from town no need for them to travel an hour going to the City Proper just for photo, and next to it is the photocopy (xerox&powder copy).
The most difficult part of this business is the maintenance but Thank God my Dad managed to handle it and got entrusted technicians and helpers.

hope it helps

Others have more experience of Business like Fred.

But from reading over the years I have seen very few sucess stories. The same can be said of Phills many have had businesses which have hit bad times.

You really need to know the area and the people you may need to keep on the right side of.

The Wifes family has found renting Land has been the best earner over the years. Business have come and gone or changed hands but they keep getting the rent.

Problem is you as a Alien cant own a Business or land yourself..

I agree