Import is an economic term that refers to the bringing of goods or services into a country from abroad, usually because these commodities are not available on the domestic market.

When imports exceed exports, it means the country is purchasing more from abroad than it is selling internationally, which can negatively impact the growth of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This situation is often viewed as problematic because it increases dependency on foreign markets. Governments are encouraged to promote exports to achieve a positive trade balance, where exports surpass imports.