Various factors will dictate the best option for the exporter to consider when putting his export marketing strategy in place. This will mostly depend on:
 the accepted business culture in certain countries for the specific type of product;
 the time-constraint for the exporting company to market and sell direct as well as
 the availibility of a good marketer and sales person (with international trade expericence) at the exporting firm.
Deciding on whether to appoint an agent or selling direct is a decision many exporters neglect to take seriously. Companies either take years (after much financial outlay) to sell their product in an overseas country simply because they cannot commit to the export process due to time-constraints.
How-ever, should you consider using an agent rather appoint an agent that has extensive proven dealings in your target market or your type of industry. Invest in an agency agreement contract which stipulates the agents responsibilities, operating demographic area, sole agency (if applicable), period the agency is valid and termination clauses should the agent not perform.