When it comes to exploring new horizons in international commerce, Trade With Turkey stands out as an unbeatable opportunity for global buyers looking to expand their horizons. Have you ever wondered why Turkey has become a hotspot for global buying and trade? This article dives deep into the key advantages that boost global buying and reveals why partnering with Turkish suppliers can transform your business strategy. From strategic location benefits to competitive pricing, understanding these factors can give you a powerful edge in today’s competitive market.

Turkey’s unique position as a bridge between Europe and Asia offers unparalleled access to diverse markets, making it a prime destination for global buyers seeking reliable trade partners. But what exactly makes Turkey so special for international trade? Beyond its geographic advantage, Turkey boasts a robust manufacturing sector producing high-quality goods ranging from textiles to electronics, all at competitive rates. This attracts buyers worldwide looking for cost-effective sourcing solutions without compromising on quality. Plus, with growing investments in infrastructure and technology, the country ensures smooth logistics and faster delivery times, critical factors for any successful trade deal.

In addition to these benefits, Turkey’s trade policies and agreements with numerous countries create a favorable environment for businesses aiming to scale globally. Curious to know how you can leverage trade with Turkey to boost your supply chain and maximize profits? Stay tuned as we explore these key advantages for global buyers in detail, helping you make informed decisions and seize lucrative opportunities in the ever-evolving world of international trade.

Unlocking Profit Potential: 7 Key Advantages of Trading With Turkey for Global Buyers

Unlocking Profit Potential: 7 Key Advantages of Trading With Turkey for Global Buyers

Unlocking Profit Potential: 7 Key Advantages of Trading With Turkey for Global Buyers

When global buyers think about expanding their supply chains or finding new markets, Turkey often comes up as a promising partner. Trade with Turkey: discover key advantages that boost global buying efforts in many industries, from textiles to electronics. But what really makes Turkey stand out, and how can international businesses unlock profit potential by engaging with this dynamic market? This article explores seven key advantages that make trading with Turkey an attractive option for buyers worldwide.

Strategic Geographic Location

Turkey’s unique position bridging Europe and Asia is a major benefit for global buyers. It sits at the crossroads of important trade routes, including the ancient Silk Road, connecting East with West. This geographic advantage means goods shipped from Turkey can reach European, Middle Eastern, and Asian markets faster and often cheaper than from other countries.

For example, Istanbul serves as a major logistics hub with access to both land and sea routes. This reduces shipping times and costs, which is critical for buyers wanting to optimize supply chains. The country’s proximity to major markets like the EU and Russia also means lower tariffs and fewer customs complications for certain products, thanks to trade agreements.

Competitive Production Costs

One of the biggest draws of trade with Turkey is its cost-effective production. Labor costs in Turkey are generally lower than in many Western countries, which helps manufacturers keep prices competitive. Despite this, Turkish producers maintain a high standard of quality across diverse sectors such as automotive, textiles, and machinery.

This balance between cost and quality attracts global buyers who seek affordable but reliable products. For instance, the textile industry in Turkey is world-renowned for producing high-quality cotton and synthetic fabrics at prices that beat many Asian competitors. Buyers looking to source products without sacrificing quality often find Turkey a sweet spot.

Diversified Industrial Base

Turkey’s economy is not reliant on a single sector, which offers global buyers a wide array of products to choose from. The country manufactures everything from food products, furniture, and construction materials to high-tech electronics and automotive parts. This diverse industrial base means buyers can source multiple product categories from one country, simplifying procurement processes.

Here’s a quick look at Turkey’s main export sectors and their share in exports:

  • Textiles and Apparel: ~20%
  • Automotive and Machinery: ~15%
  • Agricultural Products and Food: ~12%
  • Chemicals and Plastics: ~10%
  • Electronics and Electrical Equipment: ~8%

This variety also cushions buyers against risks tied to sector-specific downturns. If one industry faces challenges, others may continue growing, providing stable supply options.

Strong Manufacturing Infrastructure

Turkey has invested heavily in its manufacturing infrastructure over the past decades. Modern industrial zones, free trade zones, and advanced logistics centers support efficient production and export operations. This infrastructure development allows Turkish manufacturers to meet international standards and certifications such as ISO, CE, and others.

For global buyers, this means products comply with safety, quality, and environmental regulations common in Western countries. Companies looking to avoid customs or regulatory issues find Turkey’s manufacturing environment reassuring. Furthermore, the government supports innovation and technology adoption, helping manufacturers stay competitive.

Favorable Trade Agreements

Turkey has signed numerous free trade agreements (FTAs) and customs unions, which help reduce tariffs and simplify trade procedures for global buyers. Most notably, Turkey is in a customs union with the European Union, allowing many products to move tariff-free between Turkey and EU member states.

Additionally, Turkey has FTAs with countries in the Middle East, North Africa, and parts of Asia, expanding trade opportunities further. This network benefits buyers by lowering costs and shortening delivery times. For example, a European buyer sourcing from Turkey often saves on import duties compared to buying from other non-EU countries.

Rich Cultural and Business Heritage

Trade with Turkey brings more than just economic advantages; it also offers access to a rich cultural and business heritage that dates back centuries. This heritage has shaped a business environment where relationships, trust, and negotiation skills play critical roles.

Global buyers often find Turkish partners eager to build long-term collaborations rather than one-time deals. This can result in flexible payment terms, customized production, and improved communication. For example, Turkish exporters may be more willing to adapt product specifications or delivery schedules to meet buyer needs, compared to suppliers in more rigid market environments.

Emerging Market with Growing Domestic Demand

Turkey is not only an export powerhouse but also an emerging market with a growing domestic consumer base. This means many manufacturers are accustomed to serving both local and international customers, which drives innovation and quality improvements.

The rising middle class in Turkey creates demand for better quality goods, pushing manufacturers to upgrade their offerings continuously. Global buyers benefit from this because the products they import from Turkey tend to reflect higher quality standards demanded by Turkish consumers themselves. Also, being part of an emerging market, Turkey often adopts new technologies faster than more saturated markets, offering buyers access to cutting-edge products.

In summary, trading with Turkey unlocks many advantages

Why Trade With Turkey? Top Benefits That Make It a Global Sourcing Powerhouse

Why Trade With Turkey? Top Benefits That Make It a Global Sourcing Powerhouse

Why Trade With Turkey? Top Benefits That Make It a Global Sourcing Powerhouse

Turkey, a country straddling two continents, has become a vital hub for global commerce. Many buyers and businesses are discovering why trade with Turkey is a smart choice, yet some still overlook its advantages. This article aims to explore why Turkey is rapidly growing as a global sourcing powerhouse and what key benefits it offers for international traders. You will find practical insights, economic facts, and real-world examples that explains why Turkey should be on your global buying radar.

Strategic Geographical Location

One of the biggest reasons why companies choose to trade with Turkey is its unmatched geographical position. Turkey sits right between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, acting as a natural bridge for supply chains. This unique location reduces shipping times and costs for goods moving between continents. For example, goods manufactured in Turkey can reach major European cities in a matter of days, compared to weeks from other manufacturing hubs in Asia.

The country’s proximity to huge markets such as the EU, Russia, and the Gulf countries makes it an ideal gateway for exporters and importers. Because of this, many multinational companies establish distribution centers in Turkey to optimize their logistics. This advantage cannot be underestimated in an era where speed to market is crucial.

Competitive Production Costs

Turkey offers competitive manufacturing costs without sacrificing quality. Labor costs in Turkey are generally lower than in Western Europe but the workforce remains highly skilled and productive. This balance allows companies to produce goods affordably but still meet international standards. Industries like textiles, automotive parts, electronics, and machinery have benefited from this cost structure.

In addition, Turkey has a large and young population, providing a steady supply of labor for various sectors. This talent pool is supported by strong vocational training and technical education systems. For businesses, this means reliable access to experienced workers who can adapt to different production needs.

Diverse and Developed Industrial Base

Unlike many countries that focus on just one or two industries, Turkey has a broad industrial base. This diversity makes it easier for companies to source multiple products from a single country, simplifying supply chain management. Key sectors include:

  • Textiles and Apparel: Turkey is one of the world’s leading textile producers, known for high-quality fabrics and fashion manufacturing.
  • Automotive: The country hosts factories for major global car brands and supplies many automotive parts worldwide.
  • Electronics: Increasing investments have made Turkey a growing player in electronics production.
  • Food and Agriculture: With fertile land and varied climate, Turkey produces a variety of agricultural products for export.
  • Machinery and Equipment: Advanced engineering and manufacturing capabilities serve both domestic and international markets.

This industrial variety supports global buyers who need reliable access to multiple types of goods without dealing with numerous suppliers in different countries.

Strong Trade Agreements and Customs Union

Turkey has signed multiple free trade agreements with countries around the world, including a customs union with the European Union since 1995. This gives Turkish goods preferential access to over 60 countries, benefiting exporters and importers alike.

For international buyers, this means reduced tariffs and fewer trade barriers when buying from Turkey. The customs union with the EU, for example, allows goods to move freely between Turkey and member states without additional duties. This effectively makes Turkey an extended part of the European market, making sourcing from there more attractive.

Robust Infrastructure Supporting Trade

Trade with Turkey is also facilitated by its well-developed infrastructure. The country has invested heavily in ports, highways, railways, and airports over the past decades. Istanbul itself is a major logistics hub, with two international airports and one of the busiest seaports in the region.

Modern logistics services and warehousing facilities help companies manage inventory and distribute products efficiently. For global buyers, this means faster turnaround times and lower costs related to storage and transportation.

Government Incentives and Support for Exporters

The Turkish government actively supports export-oriented businesses. Various incentive programs exist that reduce costs and encourage investment in export sectors. These include tax exemptions, subsidies for research and development, and grants for technology upgrades.

Such measures make Turkey an even more attractive destination for companies looking to establish manufacturing or sourcing operations. The government’s commitment to improving the business environment also includes simplifying customs procedures and enhancing transparency.

Real-Life Examples of Companies Benefiting from Trade with Turkey

Many international companies have successfully tapped into Turkey’s advantages. For instance:

  • Apparel brands like Nike and Zara source significant portions of their clothing from Turkish manufacturers because of quality and speed.
  • Automotive giants such as Ford and Toyota operate plants in Turkey to serve European and regional markets.
  • Electronics companies increasingly partner with Turkish firms due to growing capabilities and cost-efficiency.

These examples show how diverse sectors recognize and leverage Turkey’s strategic benefits.

Comparing Turkey with Other Sourcing Destinations

When you compare Turkey to other popular sourcing countries like China, India, or Vietnam, some clear differences emerge:

| Factor | Turkey | China | India | Vietnam |
|————————|———————-|

How Turkey’s Strategic Location Boosts Global Trade Opportunities in 2024

How Turkey’s Strategic Location Boosts Global Trade Opportunities in 2024

How Turkey’s Strategic Location Boosts Global Trade Opportunities in 2024

Turkey, a country that sits at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, have long been a vital hub for international trade and commerce. Its unique geographic position bridging two continents, combined with modern infrastructure investments, make it one of the most important trade centers in the world today. In 2024, this strategic location continues to attract global buyers and businesses looking to expand their market reach and supply chains. This article explores why trading with Turkey offers key advantages and how its geographic position boosts global trade opportunities now more than ever.

Turkey’s Geographical Advantage in Global Trade

Positioned between the Black Sea and the Mediterranean, Turkey controls crucial maritime routes that connects Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The country’s access to both seas enables it to facilitate efficient shipping and logistics networks. To put it simply, goods can move more quickly between continents by passing through Turkey than rerouting through longer, more complex routes.

Historically, Istanbul, Turkey’s largest city, was known as Byzantium and later Constantinople, serving as the capital of empires that controlled vital trade corridors. Today, Istanbul still represents the heart of Turkey’s trade and commerce, with major ports, airports, and road networks. The Bosphorus Strait, a narrow waterway dividing Europe and Asia, remains one of the busiest maritime passages in the world.

Some key geographical benefits Turkey offers are:

  • Connecting East and West markets with shorter transit times
  • Access to major seas for maritime trade (Black Sea, Mediterranean, Aegean Sea)
  • Proximity to important emerging markets in Central Asia, the Middle East, and Europe
  • Land routes linking Europe to the Silk Road economic corridors

Modern Infrastructure Enhancing Turkey’s Trade Role

Turkey has invested heavily in modernizing its transportation and logistics infrastructure in recent years. This development supports the country’s role as a trade hub by reducing transportation costs and improving supply chain efficiency. For instance, Turkey’s growing network of highways and railways help connect its ports to inland cities and neighboring countries.

Some important infrastructure projects that boost trade are:

  1. Istanbul New Airport – One of the world’s largest airports, facilitating massive cargo and passenger traffic.
  2. Marmaray Tunnel – An undersea rail tunnel connecting the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, improving rail freight movement.
  3. Ports like Ambarli and Mersin – Large container terminals that handle millions of TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) annually.
  4. Logistic centers and free trade zones – Designed to attract foreign investment and simplify customs procedures.

These infrastructure advancements make Turkey a competitive choice for global companies that want faster and reliable access to multiple markets.

Economic and Trade Advantages for Global Buyers

Trading with Turkey in 2024 offers several benefits that appeal to international buyers. The country’s diverse industrial base produces a wide range of goods, from textiles and automotive parts to electronics and agricultural products. Turkey is also known for competitive production costs compared to many European countries, making it attractive for sourcing and manufacturing.

Buyers looking to trade with Turkey enjoy:

  • Access to a large domestic market with over 80 million consumers
  • Competitive labor costs and skilled workforce in manufacturing sectors
  • Customs Union with the European Union, facilitating tariff-free trade on many products
  • Strategic Free Trade Agreements with countries in the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia
  • Growing e-commerce and digital infrastructure supporting B2B and B2C sales

Practical examples include European companies sourcing textiles and apparel from Turkey due to quality and faster delivery times. Automotive manufacturers use Turkey as a production base to serve both European and Middle Eastern markets efficiently.

How Turkey Compares to Other Regional Trade Hubs

While countries like UAE and Singapore also serve as major trade centers, Turkey’s location and market size provide it unique advantages. The UAE acts as a gateway to the Gulf and African markets but lacks direct land connection to Europe. Singapore is a pivotal maritime hub in Southeast Asia but is far from European and Middle Eastern markets.

Turkey’s ability to combine:

  • Access to multiple continents by land and sea
  • A large and youthful domestic market
  • Strong industrial and agricultural sectors
  • Extensive trade agreements with diverse partners

makes it an ideal place for global buyers looking for integrated supply chains and market diversification.

Key Sectors Driving Trade Growth in Turkey

The country’s trade growth in 2024 is powered by several important industries:

  • Textile and Apparel: Turkey ranks among the world’s leading exporters of clothing and fabrics.
  • Automotive: Several global car manufacturers have factories in Turkey producing parts and vehicles.
  • Agriculture: Turkey exports fruits, nuts, and processed foods to many countries.
  • Electronics and Machinery: Growing sectors with increasing export volumes.
  • Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals: Benefiting from advanced manufacturing capabilities.

For example, Turkey exported over $180 billion worth of goods in 2023, with textiles and automotive products forming a significant portion. The government’s support for

Discover the Best Turkish Industries for International Buyers: A Comprehensive Guide

Discover the Best Turkish Industries for International Buyers: A Comprehensive Guide

Discover the Best Turkish Industries for International Buyers: A Comprehensive Guide

Turkey has become one of the most dynamic markets in the world for international buyers looking to diversify their sources and expand their trade horizons. With its unique geographical location bridging Europe and Asia, the country offers a vibrant mix of industries that have grown rapidly over the past decades. Many global buyers are now turning their attention to Turkey for competitive pricing, quality production, and strategic advantages that come from trading with this nation. But what exactly makes Turkey stand out? And which industries are the best for international buyers to consider? This article will explore these questions in depth.

Why Trade With Turkey? Discover Key Advantages That Boost Global Buying

Trading with Turkey is not just about accessing a new supplier; it’s about tapping into a market with several benefits that can improve your global sourcing strategy. There are multiple factors that attract international buyers, such as:

  • Strategic Location: Turkey acts as a natural bridge between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. This means shorter shipping times and reduced transport costs compared to sourcing from farther countries.
  • Customs Union with the EU: Since 1995, Turkey has been part of a customs union with the European Union, which facilitates easier trade flow and reduced tariffs on many products.
  • Competitive Production Costs: Labor and operational costs in Turkey are often lower than in many Western countries without compromising on quality.
  • Growing Infrastructure: Investments in ports, highways, and logistics centers have improved Turkey’s capacity to serve global markets efficiently.
  • Diverse Export Portfolio: Turkey exports a wide range of products, allowing buyers to source multiple categories from one country.

These advantages make Turkey a compelling option for buyers who want to optimize cost, quality, and delivery times.

Top Turkish Industries for International Buyers

Turkey is known for several key industries that have proven successful internationally. Some sectors have long histories, while others are rapidly emerging as global players. Here are some of the best Turkish industries that international buyers should know about:

  1. Textiles and Apparel

    • Turkey is one of the world’s leading textile and apparel producers.
    • The country benefits from a well-developed supply chain, from cotton production to garment manufacturing.
    • Turkish textiles are famous for their quality, competitive prices, and fast turnaround times.
    • Major exports include fabrics, ready-to-wear clothing, and home textiles.
    • Example: Many European fashion brands source their collections from Turkish manufacturers due to proximity and flexibility.
  2. Automotive Industry

    • Turkey has a strong automotive sector producing both components and complete vehicles.
    • The country hosts plants for global carmakers like Ford, Toyota, and Renault.
    • Automotive parts and accessories are significant export items.
    • Turkey’s automotive industry benefits from skilled labor and advanced manufacturing technologies.
  3. Agriculture and Food Processing

    • Turkish agriculture produces a variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and grains.
    • The food processing industry converts these raw materials into high-quality products for export.
    • Olive oil, dried fruits, and confectionery are popular export products.
    • Turkey is one of the world’s top hazelnut producers, supplying major global markets.
  4. Machinery and Equipment

    • Machinery manufacturing in Turkey covers sectors like construction, packaging, and agriculture.
    • The industry has grown with investments in technology and innovation.
    • Buyers often find Turkish machinery to be more cost-effective compared to Western equivalents.
  5. Ceramics and Glassware

    • Turkey’s ceramic and glass industries have a long tradition dating back centuries.
    • Modern factories produce tiles, sanitary ware, and decorative glass products.
    • These products are popular in Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.

Practical Examples of Trading With Turkey

To understand the benefits better, here are some practical scenarios where international buyers leveraged Turkey’s strengths:

  • A European furniture company sources upholstery fabrics from Turkey, enjoying lower costs and faster delivery compared to Asian suppliers.
  • An American automotive parts distributor expands its product range by importing components from Turkish manufacturers known for quality and reliability.
  • A Middle Eastern food importer partners with Turkish producers of dried fruits and nuts, benefiting from Turkey’s position as a leading global supplier.
  • A retailer in Russia imports Turkish ceramic tiles, taking advantage of the variety and competitive pricing.

A Comparison Table of Turkish Industries for Buyers

IndustryStrengthsMajor Export ProductsCompetitive Advantages
Textiles & ApparelWell-established supply chainFabrics, ready-to-wear, home textilesQuality, proximity to Europe, speed
AutomotiveAdvanced manufacturing, skilled laborVehicles, parts, accessoriesTechnology, cost efficiency
Agriculture & FoodDiverse agricultural outputOlive oil, nuts, dried fruitsNatural resources, global demand
MachineryGrowing technology investments

What Makes Turkey a Leading Hub for Affordable and High-Quality Global Imports?

What Makes Turkey a Leading Hub for Affordable and High-Quality Global Imports?

Turkey has become a remarkable destination for global buyers who seek affordable and high-quality imports. This country’s unique position at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, combined with its rich industrial base and strategic trade policies, make it a leading hub for a variety of products. Many international companies and buyers have discover the advantages of trade with Turkey, but not everyone fully understand what makes it so special. This article will explore the key factors behind Turkey’s rise as a global import hub and how it benefits worldwide trade partners.

Geographic and Strategic Location

One of the main reasons Turkey stands out in the global import market is its location. Sitting between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, Turkey acts like a natural bridge for goods moving across continents. This geographic advantage reduces shipping times and costs, which is very important for businesses who want to save money and deliver products faster.

The country has several major ports such as Istanbul’s Ambarli Port and Izmir’s Alsancak Port, which handle millions of tons of cargo each year. These ports are well-connected to major highways and rail networks linking to Europe and Asia, making transport logistics smoother. For example, the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway has increased Turkey’s connectivity with Central Asia and the Caucasus, opening new trade routes for importers and exporters.

Diverse Industrial Base Offering High-Quality Products

Turkey’s industrial sector is incredibly diverse, producing everything from textiles and electronics to automotive parts and machinery. This diversity means global buyers can find a wide range of products in one place, reducing the need to source from multiple countries. Turkey’s manufacturing industries have improve significantly in quality over the last decades, thanks to investments in technology and skilled labor.

Some of the most popular imported goods from Turkey include:

  • Textiles and Apparel: Turkey is one of the top textile producers in the world, known for cotton and synthetic fibers.
  • Automotive Components: Turkish manufacturers supply parts to major global car brands.
  • Machinery and Equipment: From small tools to large industrial machines, Turkey offers competitive prices and quality.
  • Agricultural Products: Turkey exports a large volume of fruits, nuts, and spices that are sought after worldwide.

Competitive Pricing and Cost Efficiency

Many buyers are attracted to Turkey because it offers a sweet spot between quality and affordability. The cost of production in Turkey is generally lower than in Western Europe or North America, but without compromising on product standards. Labor costs, for example, are less expensive while maintaining a skilled workforce. This advantage allows manufacturers to price their goods competitively on the global market.

Furthermore, Turkey’s government supports exporters and importers with various incentives such as tax exemptions and subsidies. These policies encourage companies to expand their production capacity and improve their export quality. Buyers benefit from this by having access to affordable, high-quality products without hidden costs.

Strong Trade Agreements and Customs Facilitation

Turkey has signed numerous free trade agreements (FTAs) with countries across the globe, which help reduce tariffs and simplify customs procedures for international buyers. These agreements make importing from Turkey more attractive because it lowers the overall cost and time spent on cross-border transactions.

Some of the important trade agreements Turkey maintains include:

  • Customs Union with the European Union: Allows tariff-free movement of many goods between Turkey and EU member states.
  • Free Trade Agreements with countries like South Korea, Mexico, and Chile.
  • Preferential Trade Arrangements with Middle Eastern and North African nations.

These agreements increase Turkey’s competitive edge as a trading partner and create a smoother import process.

Quality Control and International Standards Compliance

To boost confidence among global buyers, many Turkish manufacturers adhere to international quality standards such as ISO, CE, and TSE certifications. Quality control is increasingly important in today’s competitive market, and Turkish exporters recognize this by implementing rigorous testing and production protocols.

For example, textile producers in Turkey follow strict environmental and safety regulations to meet both European Union and American standards. Similarly, automotive parts manufacturers invest in research and development to ensure their products are reliable and durable. This commitment to quality makes Turkey a trustworthy source for global importers.

Real-World Examples of Trade with Turkey

It is useful to look at some practical examples to understand how trade with Turkey works in real life:

  1. A European fashion brand sourcing cotton garments from Turkish factories finds that the delivery time is shorter compared to importing from Asia, and costs are lower than sourcing from Italy.
  2. An electronics company in the Middle East imports machinery parts from Turkey because the products meet international standards but at a fraction of the price compared to local suppliers.
  3. A food distributor in North Africa imports dried fruits and nuts from Turkey due to the country’s favorable trade agreements and competitive pricing.

Comparing Turkey with Other Import Hubs

To put Turkey’s advantages in perspective, here is a comparison table between Turkey and some other major import hubs:

FactorTurkeyChinaIndiaGermany

Conclusion

In conclusion, trading with Turkey offers numerous advantages for global buyers, including its strategic geographic location bridging Europe and Asia, a dynamic and diversified economy, and a competitive manufacturing sector known for quality and innovation. Turkey’s well-established infrastructure, coupled with its customs union with the European Union and various free trade agreements, facilitates smoother and cost-effective cross-border transactions. Additionally, the country’s skilled workforce and government incentives further enhance its appeal as a reliable trade partner. For businesses looking to expand their supply chains, reduce costs, and access new markets, Turkey presents a compelling opportunity. Embracing trade with Turkey not only opens doors to a vibrant economic landscape but also fosters long-term partnerships built on mutual growth and success. Global buyers are encouraged to explore the potential of Turkish trade to gain a competitive edge in today’s interconnected marketplace.