Full question:

I work on behalf of Italian products in America as an agent for foodstuffs and I have two importers for a couple products. I need to know if I can develop new clients for the importer. If yes, what kind of agreement would I need to have for the importer? Also, should I deal with conventional importer or unconventional?

Answer:

You should have an agency contract – this is an agreement for you and your importer – I am thinking you are referring to bringing your customer to purchase products directly from the importer into the United States?
Your part in this, your obligation and disclosures are written distinctly into the contract and in return you are compensated at about ten percent for your fee. This goes for each deal your customer completes working with your importer.

However, it is critical that you understand what it is you are working on since the single reason you are going to understand when the transaction is completed, is to make certain you take the order and completing the agreement for your now disclosed client – the importer.

You are supposed to be the agent working for your primary client.

Remember that unless you learn and understand things such as proper processes – which could take many weeks or months/ years even. Taking into account the learning curve involved – why do you believe you are able to simply stroll in through the door and begin making introductions between your customers and the importer – and that you will be reimbursed for every deal that occurs because of it not to mention any transactions made between them down the road?

What you really must be doing is studying the correct procedures or just do not even chance trading in these situations. It does not take a genius to know that you might well be getting zero if you try introducing possible customers to the importer, without certain written understandings and procedures in place.