What happens if a scheduled meeting is cancelled?+
Business meetings may occasionally be rescheduled because of changes in government schedules, executive availability or operational priorities. ASI reconfirms the programme before arrival and, whenever possible, arranges an alternative meeting with the same organisation or another relevant stakeholder to preserve the value of the mission.
How far in advance should I book a mission?+
We recommend booking at least 4–8 weeks in advance. Missions involving government institutions, mining operations, large industrial facilities, security arrangements or several cities may require 8–12 weeks because invitations, access approvals and security clearances take additional time.
What are the deposit and cancellation terms?+
A deposit secures the agreed mission window and starts planning, scheduling and logistics. The service agreement states the balance deadline, cancellation conditions and any non-refundable third-party costs. Hotel, transport, security and access-related bookings are not committed without written approval.
Do you provide interpreters?+
Yes. Depending on the destination and project, ASI can arrange professional interpretation in English, French, Polish, Swahili and other required languages. The quotation confirms the language pair, interpreting hours and any specialist technical vocabulary.
Can you guarantee meetings with ministries, mine operators or company executives?+
No responsible consultancy can guarantee third-party access before receiving written confirmation. ASI requests and coordinates meetings through its local network and institutional partners, but every visit remains subject to the host organisation’s approval, security procedures and official schedule.
Why can meeting schedules sometimes change?+
Business and government schedules may change at short notice because of official priorities, travel, protocol requirements, operational issues or unforeseen events. ASI monitors the programme, reconfirms appointments and adapts the itinerary to minimise disruption and maintain productive meetings.
Why are relationships important when doing business in African markets?+
In many African markets, trust, credible introductions and long-term relationships are important before commercial negotiations progress. Initial meetings often establish credibility, understand decision-making and align expectations. ASI facilitates relevant introductions and supports the follow-up needed to develop a serious partnership.
Can several meetings be scheduled on the same day?+
Yes, when geography, travel time, protocol and decision-maker availability make it realistic. We prioritise qualified meetings over an overfilled agenda and allow enough time for meaningful discussion, site access and movement between locations.
Will I be accompanied during the mission?+
Yes. An ASI representative accompanies the delegation according to the agreed programme, coordinates logistics, facilitates introductions, supports communication with hosts and helps address programme changes on the ground.
What is included in the mission?+
The exact scope depends on the selected package and written proposal. It may include business matchmaking, pre-qualified meetings, mine, factory or project-site visits, government and institutional meetings, interpretation, local transport coordination, agenda management and post-mission follow-up.
Can I customise my itinerary?+
Yes. Every mission is designed around your sector, target organisations, commercial objective, preferred cities and required site visits. ASI does not sell generic business tours; the programme is agreed before bookings are committed.
What if my objectives change during the mission?+
Where practical, ASI can adapt the itinerary, request additional meetings or extend the programme. Changes remain subject to host availability, approvals, logistics and any additional costs, which are communicated before commitment.