Five years is good - typically business schools look at students with 2 to 3 years. But what kind of experience is it? If it's something business-related like accounting then that would be more relevant than flipping burgers in your family's restaurant.

Thanks! No, I actually manage our sugar production and trading business (glorified farmer), and I'm also handling marketing for a small retail venture with some family friends in Hong Kong, mainly distributing mid to upper-grade watches. What I guess I'm asking is, since I havent any big, international company work experience, will it be a hinderance for me? Thanks again.

I don't think so. The more hands-on, true business experience you have, the better, no matter where it is. Sounds like you've probably gotten some good experiences from your ventures, and I wouldn't be too worried about having big international experience.

Dear pepe,

Have you applied yet? I have a very similar situation as yours, I'd really like to know how things worked for you.

Also, I'm in a dilemma as to where do I get my recommendations from, since my supervisors are my family elders..

hi,
Most of the good university do consider self employment or family business work experience but of-course it should be at a managerial level and would have given you some kind of exposure to business environment. in my case i do have my own business which i have been running in India since2004 and in 2008 i applied to Bradford MBA (which is in top 10 in the UK) and fortunately i got through. and now i have started an extension of my business in the UK after my MBA.
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wish you all the best. do let me know if you need any help in admission in the UK. i do it as my hobby.