The Suez Canal was built in 1869 and is 192km long. 

The Panama Canal was built in 1914 and is 70km long. 

The builders of the Panama Canal had access to technology & techniques that were newer by half a century, and the distance was 60% less than the Suez. 

And yet the Panama took 5 years longer to build, and more people died.

Why?

Because things work differently in different geographies.

Before you jump into expansion outside of your locality, spend some time in the other locality.

Things will work differently. 

Better learn that before you lose money.