Organising an event in another country poses challenges in innumerable forms, and these may develop into situations that require diplomacy and tact. This is what we learnt from a recent event we organised in Mozambique on behalf of Coca-Cola Beverages Africa: Build relationships Make friends on all sides. The control of goods leaving SA is one of the core functions of the customs authority, and it’s complex. Make sure you partner with trusted import/export advisers and transport companies on both sides of the border. Also find a knowledgeable person at the event destination to handle any hiccups that might occur when your equipment arrives. It may not prove necessary, but it helps to have someone in the know who you can call on, just in case. Do a recce Visit the destination and potential venues before you commit to running an international event. Armed with an understanding of the event’s aims and audience, you can visit venues with an objective eye, identify potential technical an...

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