> I believe the middle-man will become an
> automated computer system, where buyers and
> sellers are matched via computer technology.

> FOr example, there is already talk about
> software that will hunt down the best price
> for a product on the net.

Hi Jon, I agree with you that this could certainly be a big factor, perhaps especially for commodities, such as raw materials, and particularly through B2B sites....

But there are other factors apart from price which might not be so easily replaceable, as others mentioned.... Like quality of the product, and support services....

Though perhaps industry structures could change, at least in some industries....

This could actually lead to some more opportunities. I haven't really thought through what these could be yet, but changing industry structures usually leads to great opportunities, for those able to spot them and take advantage of them....

I'm not sure, though it's interesting food for thought.... I'm planning to talk to an importer soon and get some more insights on this too from someone who's currently in the business (or at least was until recently, he may have recently retired)....

Thanks for your views Jon!

Dien Rice