RESEARCH GUIDES: Country Information
Reference Desk: 415-442-7244
E-mail: askalibrarian
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| Country Information : There are many different ways to find information on the countries of the world. The library subscribes to several specialized databases containing up to date and easily searchable information. In addition, the library staff has compiled some helpful books and a number of websites that will aid in research. |
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| In addition to information on the countries themselves, this section also contains resources on doing business in particular countries. Success in international business requires one to recognize and observe the different social and business standards/practices around the world. This guide will help you discover information on individual countries and the business customs practiced within them. For assistance, please contact us askalibrarian@ggu.edu. |
| BEST BETS | |
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| Economist Intelligence Unit | The EIU Database has a business oriented slant on its country information. After clicking on the link, you will be asked what type of information you are seeking. Choose from overall country profiles, reports on business and economic trends, and the commerce conditions and financial rules of select countries. |
| GlobalEDGE Web Portal | This website offers original information as well as links to trusted sites. Comprehensive in scope, it also contains excellent country information. Click "Country Insights" and choose your country by region. |
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| DATABASES | |
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| Global Market Information Database via Euromonitor | This database focuses more on countries' consumer and industrial behaviors and less on countries' histories. Use the tabs to pick a country/region and the category for which you need statistics. |
| Export.gov: The US Government's Export Portal | For specific country data, click on "Market Research" on the side menu and then click on the "Market Research Library" link. At the search screen, you will need to use the drop down menus to find the particular country/region in which you are interested. Choose "Commercial Country Guides," under Report type for information on doing business in a particular country. |
Business Source Complete
(via EBSCO) | Once in Business Source Complete, select the "Country Reports" link in the green menu on the right side of the screen. Enter your country name, and you will get a variety of results. Please note the "Political Risk Yearbook" result can be especially helpful. |
| Ebrary | Ebrary contains thousands of E-Books that can be accessed from anywhere in the world. It includes the Passport Series - guides to doing business around the world. Try typing in "Passport" and the name of a country to find the right book. |
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| WEBSITES |
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| Library of Congress Country Studies | Prepared by the Federal Research Division of the Library of Congress, these studies rank as some of the most popular sources for unbiased and accurate information on world nations. Although a little dated, they are still one of the best sources of information on almost any area of a country. |
| CIA World Factbook | The CIA World Factbook contains brief information about every country and/or territory in the world. Statistics and information are updated annually so the information is very current. |
| One World: Nations Online | An ongoing project to promote world understanding and sharing of cultures, the One world Website contains basic information on countries as well as valuable links to nations' newspapers, government agencies, city populations, etc... |
NationMaster:
Where Stats Come Alive! | The NationMaster database is a collection of world statistics. Search by categories or countries to see rankings in over 5000 categories. See which country has the most soldiers or is the most generous or drinks the most bottled water. |
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| INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS ETIQUETTE |
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| Executive Planet | A well-known website containing information for doing business in over 60 countries. |
| Dos and Taboos Around the World | Located in the reference section of several GU Libraries, this book outlines basic business practices for most countries outside of the United States. It includes chapters on gift giving, hand gestures, protocol, etc. REF HF 5387 .D66 1993 |
| Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands | This book includes information on doing business in over sixty countries. Sections include behavior style, cultural overviews, negotiating techniques and protocol. REF HF 5389 .M67 1994 |
| CultureGrams | This reference series contains basic information on the countries of the world including sections on the economy and business style. REF HF 5378 .C85 |
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