limportation

L'importation, or importation, is the act of bringing goods or services into a country from abroad for resale, use, or consumption. It covers manufactured products, raw materials, and, in some contexts, international services such as licensing arrangements or remote services. Importation is the counterpart of exportation.

Regulation is typically administered by a national customs authority. Importers must comply with classification under the Harmonized System (HS), valuation for duties and taxes, and the payment of tariffs or value‑added tax (VAT) or goods and services tax (GST). Many countries require import licenses, permits, or quotas for particular goods and may impose safety, health, environmental, or intellectual property checks. Documents commonly include a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and an import declaration; certificates of origin or sanitary certificates may be needed.

Economic and policy aspects: Importation affects consumer prices, domestic industry, and the balance of payments. Tariffs and non‑tariff barriers influence competition; free-trade agreements and preferential tariffs shape eligibility. Noncompliance risks include fines, seizure of goods, or criminal penalties. Importers manage risk through compliance programs, insurance, and clear contract terms, sometimes using Incoterms to delineate responsibilities in transportation and customs. Global supply chains rely on efficient importation to obtain inputs and technologies.

Despite regulatory complexity, importation remains a core component of modern economies, enabling access to goods and services not produced domestically.