"Imports" consist of transactions in goods and services to a resident of a jurisdiction from non-residents. Companies buy a specialized range of products, maintain a stock or a shop, and deliver products to customers. Exporting refers to the sending of goods and services from their country of origin to a country as part of an exchange. Theoretically, free trade can improve the quality of life for a nation's citizens. Nations can import goods that are not readily available within their borders. Importing goods may be cheaper for a developing country than attempting to produce consumer goods or services within their borders. Many developing nations do not have the production processes available for converting raw materials into valuable consumer goods.