Considering international markets for your book

Availability is not visibility

Many books are technically available in several countries through global retailers or distribution. Being purchasable is different from being discoverable by readers in that market.

What changes between markets

Dominant retailers and library systems, preferred formats, typical price points, category conventions and the language readers search in can all differ. A description written for one market may not use the terms readers elsewhere search for.

Translation and foreign-rights deals are separate routes that usually involve publishers or agents; market research can help identify where such conversations may be worthwhile, but cannot arrange them.

Choosing where to focus

Comparing a small number of markets in depth is usually more useful than surveying many superficially. Official statistics, industry bodies and local retail observation each provide part of the picture, and each has limitations that should be stated.