You are already off to a bad start if you think you need an import/export license from the government. No such thing exists.I've already opened up a company waiting for import / export license from Government of Canada site.
What does exist is the need for licenses to import or export some specific items.
I have been involved in the exporting/importing/shipping industry for most of my life. I no longer operate any business in importing or exporting, but I help many people on this forum, mostly through answering questions in my AMA thread: Sharing my lifetime experience in export/import. Product sourcing specialist.Please let me know what's been your experience in import / export. Is it really difficult as some people claim.
Reading all of that thread will help you, but remember that the thread was started nearly 7 years ago, so a lot of the older posts are now well out of date. Reading Post #1 is a must for newcomers to importing or exporting.
Very few people actually succeed in what they call an "Import / Export business". I know there are wonderful stories advertising courses to learn how to run an Import / Export business, but most of it is fantasy.
There is a huge amount of misinformation on the internet regarding importing, with many blogs operated by people who have done some importing in the process of running an eCommerce business on eBay or Amazon. That misinformation is a wealth hazard.
One mistake can cost you thousands, so in answer to your question: "Is it really difficult as some people claim." YES it can be difficult and costly, but if you are willing to learn from someone who has really been there - done that, you will know how to avoid those costly mistakes.
The international trading scene changes frequently, and that is why I revise my book every year. The 2021 edition is up to date, unlike the many blogs online published by people who claim to be experts.
One example is a blog that states that it was updated in November 2020, but it quotes Alibaba information published by Alibaba in 2018.
I suggest you at least check out the contents list of my safe sourcing and easy importing book on Page 1 of my thread: Walter Hay's Business Books
If you have any questions, post them in my AMA thread and you will get accurate answers that can save you a lot of pain and money.
Walter
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