How to Equip Remote Workers in Armenia and Nigeria: Key Things to Consider

One of remote work's most significant benefits is having access to the global talent pool. However, onboarding remote workers worldwide comes with unique challenges, especially when setting up the necessary tools. That’s why you must know how to equip your remote workers properly.

When it comes to international hiring, remote work statistics prove that the distributed arrangement is here to stay. Owl Labs reported in 2022 that 39% of workers would quit if remote work were no longer available. 

As for organizations, data gathered by The Conference Board in 2020 suggests that US companies are three times more willing to hire remote workers anywhere in the US or internationally than before the pandemic. 

With the tendency of globally distributed teams going upward, companies are more likely to hire in up-and-coming tech hubs and startup cities outside of their home country.

In recent years, Armenia and Nigeria have become attractive regions for international hiring due to their appeal as promising tech hubs and well-established IT sectors.

If your organization is looking to tap into the labor markets in these regions, there are some key considerations you need to know to start onboarding remote team members and setting them up with proper equipment.

Key Considerations When Equipping Remote Workers in Armenia

Armenia is a small, landlocked country located in the South Caucasus region of Eurasia. It has a population of around 3 million and is known for its rich history, ancient landmarks, and scenic landscapes. The country has emerged as a rising tech hub in recent years, with many startups and IT companies.

According to a recent report by the World Bank, the country’s participation in Information and Communication Technology services exports doubled between 2009 and 2017, going from around $94 million to $212 million. And the tendency is expected to continue in the future.

Forbes reported that tech is the most significant foreign investment in the country, with large firms like Intel, Microsoft, Google, IBM, Synopsys, and Cisco having offices in the capital, Yerevan. Moreover, the country's technology sector grew by 33%, amounting to $250 million in 2018.

Despite being a relatively young nation, Armenia's technology sector has been thriving consistently, partly due to its history as an innovation center during the Soviet era. Startups like PicsArt and Shadowmatic have even received international recognition.

With a bustling tech scene, companies are looking into Armenia to scale and grow their workforce. If you’re looking to hire and equip remote workers in this country, keep in mind the following considerations.

Understand Import laws

To send equipment from your company’s headquarters to Armenia, you must stick to import laws and regulations and clear customs.

According to the International Trade Organization (ITA), Armenian customs officials require importers to present a customs declaration form and a commercial invoice that includes the imported goods' specifications, quantity, and value. 

In addition, a declaration must be supported by several other documents, such as contracts, transport documents, import licenses, and certificates of origin. 

The Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) has a unified list of goods subject to import and export limitations and prohibitions to monitor and control the movement of sensitive goods. Note that low and high-voltage equipment is included in the list, as well as telecommunications facilities.

Identify Reliable Vendors

If you wish to procure equipment locally, you must scout for reputable vendors to procure and deliver the devices you want your team to have. This can be challenging due to Armenia’s geopolitical situation and landlocked status.

According to the ITA, the country's relatively small market size and closed borders with two of its four neighbors limit opportunities for merchandise trade. 

For example, transport costs through Georgia are high, and there are frequent delays since there is only one border crossing point between Georgia and Russia, causing bottlenecks for Armenian trade. On the other hand, Iran has many international sanctions that limit trade, as well as poor transportation infrastructure and protective market practices.

Consider the Cost

Armenia’s currency is the dram, and business is usually conducted using local currency exchange rates. Consider that import duties, taxes, and shipping fees will also affect the cost of equipment. Armenia has a 20% VAT (value-added tax) based on the European Union VAT Directive principles.

Local Challenges

Current political conflicts in nearby countries like Russia can affect business in Armenia. International sanctions and closed borders can impact product availability, shipping times, and overall cost.

Key Considerations When Equipping Remote Workers in Nigeria

Nigeria is located in West Africa, with a population of over 200 million people. It is the most populous country in Africa and is known for its diverse culture, rich history, and growing economy. 

Lagos, Nigeria’s economic capital, has been referred to as Africa’s Silicon Valley for its growing tech sector. In 2019, Nigerian startups raised a combined $663 million in funding.

These factors make Nigeria an attractive place to scout remote workers for international companies. But in order to set up and provide equipment in the region, you must follow a few key considerations.

Understand Import laws

An important aspect of procuring IT equipment in Nigeria is to be aware of the country's regulations regarding the importation of electronics. 

According to the Nigeria Customs Service, all electronic equipment imported into the country must be certified by the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON). 

This ensures that the products meet the necessary safety and quality standards. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in the seizure of the equipment, as well as legal and financial penalties.

Identify Reliable Vendors

When looking for reliable vendors to procure IT equipment in Nigeria, it is essential to conduct thorough research and due diligence. Nigeria is home to several technology companies and vendors that provide various IT equipment, but not all are trustworthy.

To avoid working with subpar vendors, look for recommendations from trusted sources, read reviews, and check their reputation online. Also, ensure that the vendor has the necessary certifications and licenses to operate in the country and can provide IT support and maintenance services.

Consider the Cost

Like most countries, import duties, taxes, and shipping fees will affect the equipment cost in Nigeria. It is essential to factor in these additional costs when budgeting for device procurement in the country.

Furthermore, Nigeria's currency is the Naira, and foreign exchange restrictions can limit the availability of foreign currency for importers, causing fluctuations in exchange rates. The country’s VAT rate is currently at 7.5%.

Local Challenges

Nigeria's challenging economic and political climate presents additional considerations when procuring equipment. According to the ITA, the country has been facing several socioeconomic issues, rising inflation, increasing food prices, currency devaluation, high unemployment, and widespread insecurity.

Final Thoughts

Procuring equipment for international remote workers is one step in the overall onboarding process and may be one of the more complex ones. Dealing with worldwide logistics, shipping times, and equipment costs are just a few of the things that companies need to cover.

This process can be particularly daunting in an international setting due to varying import laws, regulations, and local challenges that can impact product availability, shipping times, and overall cost.

The good news is you don’t have to traverse this process alone. A smart IT equipment procurement solution can make international procurement a breeze. We do the heavy lifting in navigating each country’s obstacles so you can set up your employees in just one click. Book a free demo to get started.