Importer

/ɪmˈpɔːrtər/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A person or entity that brings goods or services into a country from abroad for sale.
The importer secured a deal with a foreign manufacturer to bring electronics into the local market.
A company that engages in the importation of products and services.
As a leading importer of textiles, the company has established strong ties with suppliers in Asia.
An individual or organization that buys goods from another country and sells them in their own country.
The importer specializes in gourmet foods, sourcing rare ingredients from around the world.
A business that facilitates the process of importing by handling logistics and customs.
The importer handled all the necessary paperwork to ensure the quick delivery of the goods.

Etymology

From the Latin 'importare', meaning 'to bring in'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

import duties
Taxes imposed on imported goods.
import/export business
A business involved both in bringing goods into a country and sending goods out to other countries.
import license
A government permit that allows a person or company to bring certain goods into a country.

Related Words

exporter
A person or company that sells goods to another country.
customs broker
A professional licensed to represent importers and exporters in customs matters.

Slang Meanings

A person who smuggles goods across borders.
He's not just an importer; sometimes he acts like a smuggler to get rare items.
A dealer who imports products for resale.
In the street market, many importers sell exotic goods from all over the world.