Import Agreement Template for United States

An Import Agreement sets out the legal terms between a Saudi buyer and a foreign seller for bringing goods into the Kingdom. It covers essential details like product specifications, pricing, delivery schedules, and customs requirements under Saudi law, particularly following the GCC Common Customs Law and Ministry of Commerce regulations.

These agreements play a crucial role in Saudi's international trade by ensuring compliance with local import controls, Shariah principles, and quality standards. They typically include provisions for payment methods (often through letters of credit), inspection procedures, and dispute resolution mechanisms that align with Saudi commercial courts' jurisdiction.

Import Agreements become essential when your business plans to purchase goods from suppliers outside Saudi Arabia. This applies particularly to high-value transactions, regulated products like medical equipment or chemicals, or when dealing with new international suppliers for the first time.

Use these agreements to protect your interests when facing complex customs requirements, strict local content rules under Saudi Vision 2030, or specialized industry regulations. They're especially important for goods requiring special permits, halal certification, or when coordinating with multiple parties across borders. Having clear terms in place helps prevent costly delays at customs and ensures compliance with Saudi import laws.

• Basic Trade Import Agreements: Used for straightforward product imports with standard payment and delivery terms under Saudi customs regulations
• Agency Import Agreements: Designed for businesses working through authorized Saudi agents or distributors, incorporating SAGIA requirements
• Specialized Product Agreements: Feature additional clauses for regulated items like pharmaceuticals, chemicals, or food products requiring SFDA approval
• Framework Import Agreements: Cover long-term, multiple-shipment arrangements with recurring foreign suppliers
• Technology Import Agreements: Include specific provisions for importing technical equipment, software, or systems under CITC guidelines

• Saudi Importing Companies: Local businesses that purchase and import foreign goods, responsible for compliance with Saudi customs regulations
• Foreign Suppliers: International manufacturers or vendors selling products to Saudi entities, must meet local product standards
• Customs Brokers: Licensed professionals who facilitate clearance and ensure documentation meets Saudi Customs requirements
• Commercial Banks: Handle letters of credit and financial transactions between parties under Saudi monetary regulations
• Legal Counsel: Draft and review agreements to ensure compliance with Saudi commercial law and Shariah principles

• Product Details: Gather exact specifications, quantities, and HS codes for all imported items
• Supplier Information: Collect foreign supplier's legal entity details, trade licenses, and manufacturing certifications
• Import Requirements: Check SABER conformity certificates and any special permits needed for your goods
• Payment Terms: Define payment method, currency, and banking arrangements compliant with Saudi monetary regulations
• Shipping Details: Specify Incoterms, delivery schedule, and required documentation for Saudi customs clearance
• Compliance Check: Verify agreement against current Saudi import regulations and Shariah principles

• Party Details: Full legal names, commercial registration numbers, and authorized representatives of both importer and supplier
• Product Description: Detailed specifications, quantities, and quality standards meeting Saudi technical regulations
• Payment Terms: Clear pricing, currency, payment method, and banking arrangements under Saudi monetary laws
• Delivery Terms: Incoterms, shipping schedule, and customs clearance responsibilities
• Compliance Clauses: References to Saudi import regulations, SABER requirements, and Shariah principles
• Dispute Resolution: Saudi court jurisdiction or approved arbitration procedures under local law

Import Agreements are often confused with Agency Agreements in Saudi Arabia, but they serve distinct purposes in international trade. While both deal with bringing foreign products into the Kingdom, their scope and legal implications differ significantly.

• Primary Purpose: Import Agreements focus on specific product transactions and customs clearance, while Agency Agreement establishes a long-term relationship with a local representative to handle multiple imports
• Legal Structure: Import Agreements are transaction-specific contracts between buyer and seller, whereas Agency Agreements must comply with Saudi Commercial Agencies Law and require SAGIA registration
• Duration and Scope: Import Agreements typically cover single or defined series of transactions, while Agency Agreements create ongoing representation rights and territorial exclusivity
• Liability Framework: Import Agreements focus on delivery and payment obligations, while Agency Agreements involve broader responsibilities including marketing, warranty service, and local market development