Importing Goods from China without a Trade License and Customs Formalities | Legal Aspects, Risks, and Alternative Methods

Official importation of goods through legal channels, as one of the standard methods of supplying market needs in Iran, requires completing essential steps such as obtaining a valid trade license (Business Card) and performing all necessary customs procedures.

Related costs for this process include expenses such as warehousing, transportation, loading and unloading, inspections, customs duties and tariffs, value-added tax, and other administrative service fees, which can sometimes significantly reduce the importer’s profit margin.

Is it possible to import goods without a trade license and paying customs tariffs?

According to the laws and regulations of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the official importation of goods is only permissible with a valid trade license and compliance with all legal customs procedures. Any import without following these processes is deemed illegal and may result in criminal and financial consequences.

However, some companies operating in the import sector (such as those legally acting as a “commercial intermediary”) can act as the official importer/exporter using their registered corporate trade license and assume legal responsibilities. In such cases, the client is considered solely as the employer or final buyer.

Cooperation with these companies is only legitimate when all stages of order registration, document provision, and transportation are carried out under legal standards and with full transparency.

Purchase Channels and Common Import Methods

Platforms such as Alibaba, AliExpress, and 1688 are recognized as major sources for online product purchases from China.

Bulk purchasing from these sources requires familiarity with trade regulations, supplier credibility assessment, and strict compliance with official import procedures. Selecting a reliable supplier and managing procurement and logistics should be handled by reputable trading companies. It is recommended that all purchase documents (including proforma invoices and shipping details) be accurately prepared.

Sample Dispatch and Product Evaluation

During the import process, it is often possible to receive a “commercial sample” from the seller. Sending a sample prior to placing a bulk order allows for quality verification. This must be processed as a legal procedure with proper documentation in shipping and customs records. The process should strictly comply with the official commercial sample import regulations as stipulated by customs authorities.

Payment to the Seller (Supplier)

Paying foreign suppliers for purchased goods must comply with foreign exchange regulations and utilize authorized financial channels.

Due to international limitations, working with companies that can legally transfer foreign currency — including payments via remittance and letters of credit — ensures the legality of the financial process.

Rahamco, in addition to accepting payment in Iranian rials, provides customers with official currency transfer services through lawful channels.

Performance Guarantees and Commitments

Under contractual agreements, imported goods are covered by enforceable guarantees, including liability for losses and payment security. For goods exceeding a certain value threshold, Rahamco arranges guarantee documents such as promissory notes or bank guarantees to protect client rights and ensure full compliance with commitments.

Delivery is typically made “ex-warehouse” or as otherwise agreed, and post-clearance logistics from port to final warehouse can be arranged.

Import Duration and Additional Notes

The time required for the import process depends on the mode of transport (sea or air), shipment volume, and various trade-related factors. All related costs are settled after the goods are delivered to the final destination and according to the contract terms.

We recommend obtaining professional legal consultation and signing official contracts with licensed companies such as Rahamco prior to engaging in any import activity, to avoid future complications.

Legal Warning

Importing goods through unofficial channels — commonly referred to as “without a trade license and customs procedures” — is a violation of foreign trade regulations and can lead to legal penalties, seizure of goods, heavy fines, and even criminal charges against both the client and the operator.

Any advertisement or offer to import goods from China without the necessary licenses and formal customs registration holds no legal validity and is not recommended.

For expert consultation and legal contract arrangements on importing goods, Rahamco’s specialist team is ready to assist you.