# importer

/ˌɪmˈpɔɹtɝ/ (US) · /ɪmpˈɔːtɐ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/importer
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

a person or company that brings goods into a country from another country to sell them. You use this when talking about global trade or buying products from abroad.

For teachers: a person or commercial entity that brings goods or services into a country from abroad for sale. Often used in economic contexts to describe the receiving party in international trade.

## Examples

- The local wine importer brings in several brands from Italy.
- As a major importer of crude oil, the nation is highly sensitive to fluctuations in global energy prices.
- The government recently introduced new tariffs that significantly increase the operating costs for every small-scale importer specializing in artisanal electronics from East Asia.

## Usage notes

- Often paired with 'of' to specify the goods being brought in.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.