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# Importation Trade

## Definition

The commercial activity of bringing foreign goods into a country for
domestic consumption, often restricted by tariffs and prohibitions but
occasionally liberalized during periods of scarcity.

## Source Chapter

Book IV, Chapter 5

## Context

Smith discusses how importation trade can help supply the home market during
scarcity, but argues that the inland trade is generally more important for
national prosperity than foreign trade.

## Economic Domain

Exchange

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