1. Manufacturers: Manufacturers are the primary producers of goods.

Their role is to
transform raw materials or components into finished products. They set the quality
standards, design the products, and often handle the initial distribution stages.

2. Retailers: Retailers are the link between manufacturers or wholesalers and consumers.
Their main function is to sell goods directly to consumers through various channels such
as brick-and-mortar stores, online platforms, or catalogs. They provide a convenient point
of purchase, offer customer service, and manage inventory to meet consumer demand.

3. Wholesalers: Wholesalers act as intermediaries between manufacturers and retailers.

They purchase goods in bulk from manufacturers and sell smaller quantities to retailers.
Wholesalers often provide storage, transportation, and financing services to retailers.
They help manufacturers reach a broader market by distributing products to multiple
retail outlets.

4. Transport Operators: Transport operators are responsible for the physical movement of
goods within the supply chain. They include trucking companies, shipping lines, airlines,
and railroads. Their role is to pick up goods from suppliers or manufacturers and deliver
them to warehouses, retailers, or other intermediaries. Transport operators ensure timely
delivery, optimize routes and handle logistics to minimize costs and maximize efficiency.

5. Suppliers: Suppliers provide raw materials, components, or finished goods to

manufacturers or wholesalers. They play a critical role in the production process by
supplying quality materials on time and at competitive prices. Suppliers may also offer
additional services such as sourcing, procurement, and inventory management to support
their clients' operations.

6. Warehouse Operators: Warehouse operators manage storage facilities where goods are
stored before distribution. They receive incoming shipments, organize inventory, and
fulfill orders for customers. Warehouse operators optimize space utilization, implement
inventory management systems, and ensure the safety and security of stored goods. They
facilitate the efficient movement of goods within the supply chain network.
 7. Agents/Brokers: Agents or brokers act as intermediaries between buyers and sellers,
facilitating transactions on behalf of their clients. They represent either the buyer or the
seller in negotiations, help match supply with demand, and assist with contract
negotiations and paperwork. Agents and brokers often specialize in specific industries or
product categories, leveraging their expertise to provide value-added services to their
clients.

8. Freight Forwarders: Freight forwarders are responsible for organizing the transportation
of goods from one location to another. They coordinate various aspects of the shipping
process, including booking cargo space, arranging transportation, completing
documentation, and managing customs clearance. Freight forwarders ensure that goods
are delivered to their destination safely, efficiently, and in compliance with regulations.

 Managing Transport: Freight forwarders oversee the movement of goods through various
transportation modes, selecting the most efficient and economical options for timely delivery.

 Document Management: Freight forwarders handle the creation and processing of essential
shipping paperwork required for international trade, ensuring accuracy

Managing Customs Clearance: Freight forwarders. They navigate customs procedures for international
shipments, ensuring compliance with import/export regulations, handling documentation, and
facilitating smooth customs clearance to avoid delays or penalties.

Monitoring Shipments: Freight forwarders offer real-time tracking and monitoring of shipments using
advanced technologies, keeping clients informed of shipment status and addressing any issues or delays
promptly.

Intermediaries are individuals, entities, or organizations that operate between producers (sellers)
and consumers (buyers) within a market or supply chain. Their primary function is to facilitate
the exchange of goods, services, or information between buyers and sellers. Intermediaries add
value to transactions by providing various services, such as distribution, marketing, financing,
and logistics, which help streamline the transaction process and make it more efficient.