What is the primary purpose of an import license?

The primary purpose of an import license is to authorize the importer to bring certain goods into the country. This license serves as a legal permission granted by a governmental authority, allowing specific products to be imported under designated conditions. Import licenses are often required for controlled goods, which may include items that are subject to quotas, restrictions, or special regulations due to health, safety, or environmental concerns.

Possessing an import license ensures compliance with national trade regulations, making it possible for governments to monitor and manage the flow of goods across their borders. This process helps protect local industries, ensure safety standards, and guarantee that imports do not violate any trade laws or bilateral agreements.

The other options involve important aspects of the import process but do not encapsulate the primary function of an import license. For instance, while it is essential for importers to pay required tariffs, the import license itself does not serve as a certification of payment. Similarly, inspections of goods prior to shipping and determining their value are critical steps in the import process, but these tasks are separate from the authorization function provided by an import license.