Why do imported products have to go through agents? I don't understand!

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I've noticed that many imported products have to be sold or operated through agents. Why is that? Can't they just do it themselves? It feels like it adds an extra step and increases costs. I hope someone knowledgeable can explain the inside story. Thanks!
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There are several main reasons why imported products choose to go through agents.

Firstly, importing involves complex customs procedures, declaration processes, and the payment of various taxes and fees. Agents typically have professional teams familiar with these processes and can complete the relevant operations efficiently and accurately, avoiding delays or violations and fines due to unfamiliarity with regulations. For example, Zhongmaoda has dedicated professionals to handle these matters.

Secondly, product standards and certification requirements vary greatly between different countries. Agents can help ensure that imported products meet domestic quality, safety, and other standards, and complete necessary certification work, ensuring that the products can circulate smoothly in the domestic market.

Furthermore, agents generally have their own sales channels and market promotion resources. For imported products, leveraging these advantages of agents can help them enter the domestic market faster and better, increasing product awareness and market share, which is much more efficient than the importer developing the market from scratch.

References: No Way! Such a Convenient Way to Buy Imported Cars

Imported products go through agents because agents have a better understanding of the domestic market, knowing consumer preferences, market demands, and so on, which allows them to promote the products more effectively.

Many suppliers of imported products are located abroad, making communication difficult due to the long distance. Having an agent domestically makes communication much easier and allows for timely handling of various issues.

Agents have mature supporting resources such as logistics and distribution, which can ensure that imported products reach consumers smoothly. Doing it yourself might not be as convenient.

User-submitted questions and answers reflect personal opinions, not the official stance of this website.

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