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An Import Agreement sets out the legal terms and conditions when bringing goods into Ireland from another country. It's a binding contract between an Irish buyer and their foreign supplier that spells out crucial details like product specifications, pricing, delivery schedules, and payment terms.

Under Irish customs law and EU trade regulations, these agreements help businesses ensure compliance with import duties, VAT requirements, and product safety standards. They typically include provisions for quality inspection, currency exchange, dispute resolution, and risk allocation - protecting both parties during international transactions. Irish importers often use these agreements alongside letters of credit or bank guarantees to secure their purchases.

Use an Import Agreement when starting regular trade with suppliers outside Ireland, especially for significant or recurring purchases. This agreement becomes essential before placing your first order, as it establishes clear expectations and protects your business interests under Irish and EU trade laws.

The agreement proves particularly valuable when dealing with new suppliers, handling specialized products, or navigating complex customs requirements. Irish businesses need these agreements to secure favorable payment terms, establish quality standards, and ensure compliance with local regulations. It's especially important when importing regulated goods like food products, pharmaceuticals, or electronics that require specific certifications.

• Standard Commercial Import Agreement: Covers basic trading terms, payment schedules, and delivery requirements for general merchandise imports into Ireland
• Framework Import Agreement: Establishes long-term relationships with repeat suppliers, including flexible ordering and pricing structures
• Industry-Specific Import Agreement: Contains specialized terms for regulated sectors like food, pharmaceuticals, or technology, meeting EU and Irish compliance standards
• Distribution Import Agreement: Combines import terms with distribution rights for the Irish market
• Short-Form Import Agreement: Simplified version for one-time or small-scale imports with straightforward terms

• Irish Importing Companies: Businesses purchasing goods from overseas suppliers, ranging from retail chains to manufacturers requiring raw materials
• Foreign Suppliers: Companies outside Ireland selling and shipping products to Irish buyers, responsible for meeting agreed quality and delivery terms
• Customs Brokers: Professionals who facilitate import clearance and ensure compliance with Irish customs regulations
• Legal Counsel: Solicitors who draft and review agreements to protect their clients' interests and ensure compliance with Irish trade laws
• Trade Finance Banks: Financial institutions providing letters of credit and managing international payments under the agreement terms

• Supplier Details: Gather complete company information, registration numbers, and contact details for all foreign suppliers
• Product Specifications: Document exact descriptions, quantities, quality standards, and any required certifications
• Customs Requirements: Research Irish import duties, VAT rates, and specific regulations for your product category
• Payment Terms: Define currency, payment methods, credit terms, and any required banking documentation
• Delivery Details: Specify Incoterms, shipping methods, insurance requirements, and delivery schedules
• Risk Management: Consider using our platform to generate a comprehensive agreement that covers all legal requirements and protects your interests

• Party Details: Full legal names, addresses, and registration numbers of both importer and supplier
• Product Description: Detailed specifications, quantities, quality standards, and certification requirements
• Payment Terms: Price, currency, payment method, and timing aligned with Irish banking regulations
• Delivery Terms: Incoterms, shipping details, transfer of risk, and customs clearance responsibilities
• Compliance Clauses: References to relevant Irish and EU import regulations, product standards
• Dispute Resolution: Irish jurisdiction choice, applicable law, and resolution procedures
• Force Majeure: Events excusing performance under Irish contract law principles

An Import Agreement differs significantly from an Agency Agreement, though both are used in international trade. While Import Agreements focus on the direct purchase and delivery of goods from foreign suppliers, Agency Agreements establish a relationship where an agent represents the foreign company in Ireland.

• Scope of Authority: Import Agreements deal with specific transactions and deliveries, while Agency Agreements grant ongoing authority to represent and sell on behalf of the foreign company
• Payment Structure: Import Agreements specify direct payment for goods, whereas Agency Agreements typically involve commission-based compensation
• Duration: Import Agreements often cover specific shipments or periods, while Agency Agreements tend to be longer-term relationships
• Legal Obligations: Import Agreements focus on delivery and payment terms, while Agency Agreements address representation rights, territory limitations, and performance targets under Irish agency law