Tertiary activities refer to services that support the production and distribution of goods. They are also known as service industries and are an essential part of a modern economy. These activities can be broadly divided into two categories: production and exchange.
Production: Tertiary activities also include the production of services such as healthcare, education, transportation, and information technology. These services are essential for the functioning of the economy and provide the necessary infrastructure for manufacturing and other industries to thrive. For example, communication services like telecommunications and internet connectivity are crucial for the effective functioning of businesses and industries.
Exchange: Exchange refers to the movement of goods and services from producers to consumers. It includes activities like trade, retail, banking, insurance, and transportation. These activities facilitate the distribution and exchange of goods and services in the economy. For example, retail stores or e-commerce platforms provide the exchange of goods between the producer and the consumer, while financial services such as banking allow for the exchange of money.
Thus, tertiary activities encompass both the provision of services that support production (e.g., education, healthcare) and the facilitation of exchange (e.g., trade, retail, transportation).