importation

Importation is the process of bringing goods or services from one country into another for use or resale. It encompasses a range of activities including procurement, transport, customs clearance, and payment. Importation helps economies access materials, technologies, and consumer products not produced domestically and is governed by national laws and international trade rules. The term generally contrasts with exportation, which moves goods out of a country.

The import process typically starts with classifying goods under the international harmonized system (HS) codes and determining applicable duties, taxes, and import restrictions. Required documents include a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, certificate of origin, and any licenses or sanitary or phytosanitary certificates. Valuation for duty is usually based on the transaction value, cost, insurance, and freight. After customs declaration, duties are paid and goods are released, often via a customs broker or freight forwarder.

Policy tools such as tariffs, quotas, licensing, and non-tariff measures influence import flows. Importation affects prices, supply chains, and domestic industries, and is shaped by exchange rates and global competition. Risks include compliance breaches, fraud, and quality or safety issues. In modern trade, digital platforms and streamlined customs procedures seek to reduce clearance times while maintaining controls.