Raw materials are the basic substances used in the production of goods. They can be natural resources, such as wood, metal, or oil, or agricultural products like wheat and cotton. These materials are extracted or harvested and then processed to create finished products, ranging from furniture to electronics. The quality and availability of raw materials significantly impact manufacturing and supply chains. Industries rely on a steady supply of these materials to maintain production levels. For example, the construction industry depends on raw materials like sand and cement to build structures, while the automotive industry requires steel and plastic for vehicle production.