import

International Trade/CustomsLegal glossary term

Legal Definition

In a legal context, 'import' refers to the act of bringing goods or assets from one jurisdiction or location into another, often involving specific customs duties, tariffs, and regulatory compliance. It signifies the transfer of tangible property across jurisdictional boundaries.

Plain-English Translation

Imagine you are bringing toys or tools from one country into your own house or business. 'Import' is the legal action of bringing those items across borders, which requires paying taxes and following specific rules about what can be brought in.

Context in Contracts

It matters because it establishes the legal basis for assessing duties, determining compliance with trade laws, and establishing ownership rights over the imported goods within the context of contracts or statutes.

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01

Importing machinery under a specific tariff schedule.

02

The legal action of bringing intellectual property from an overseas entity into domestic courts.

Document context

How import shows up in legal documents

What is it?

The formal process by which goods, assets, or capital are legally brought from an external jurisdiction (like another state or country) into a domestic jurisdiction, often triggering duties, tariffs, or specific regulatory requirements under the governing law.

Why does it matter?

It matters because it establishes the legal basis for assessing duties, determining compliance with trade laws, and establishing ownership rights over the imported goods within the context of contracts or statutes.

When does it matter?

When discussing cross-border transactions, international trade agreements, customs procedures, or when defining the scope of a legal entity's operational reach across different jurisdictions.

Where is it usually seen?

In sections dealing with international commerce clauses, tariff schedules, import/export regulations, and specific provisions within trade law statutes.

Who is affected?

The parties involved in cross-border transactions, government agencies responsible for customs, and the legal entity that is undertaking the importation.

How does it work?

It works by initiating a formal declaration or process to bring goods into the jurisdiction, which requires proper documentation, payment of applicable duties, and adherence to specific import regulations set forth by the governing law.

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Wikipedia

Import

Import

Import is the activity within international trade which involves buying and receiving goods and services produced in another country. An importer is a person, organization or country receiving imported goods which have been exported from another country....

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Disclaimer: We do not provide legal advice. We translate legal language into plain English and help you prepare for a conversation with a lawyer.