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Q: I would like to import ready made garments, e.g. a leather jacket and shoes from Bangladesh. Do I need an import licence?

Aug 31 2010

Answered by: Ashley de Safrin Ask a question

We are informed that you do not need a licence to import clothes from Bangladesh, but if your business is considering exporting or importing other goods, you will need to check if you need a licence.

There are controls on exports of military or paramilitary goods, technology, artworks, plants and animals, medicines and chemicals. Licence requirements may depend on the potential use of the item - e.g. if it has a military application (usually referred to as dual-use goods) and where you are exporting to.

There are also controls on imports including firearms, plants and animals, foods, medicines, textiles and chemicals. Whether you need a licence can also depend on where the goods are coming from.

Exporting or importing controlled goods without the right licence is a criminal offence, so it's important to check first.

See HM Customs and Excise (http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/index.htm) for more information on importing and exporting.

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