Why Would a Company Want to Enter a Joint Venture in the Former Soviet Union or Eastern Europe?

Restructuring activities in the former Soviet Union and Eastern Europe present enticing opportunities for firms to consider foreign investment in these emerging areas. Geographically, the population of the entire region is relatively conveniently concentrated, rendering delivery and servicing of goods and services relatively simple. Further, the population is greatly underserved, particularly in terms of consumer goods and services. The problems, as chronicled in the popular press, are, however, daunting. Based on a number of consultancies with firms over the last two years, identifies typical problems to be anticipated and suggests concrete steps to take in order to solve these problems.