The United States is one of the largest food import markets in the world. From avocados and coffee to noodles and specialty cheeses, importers play a key role in satisfying both everyday cravings and diverse culinary trends.

But with that opportunity comes serious responsibility. U.S. regulations are strict - designed to protect consumers, safeguard domestic agriculture, and uphold public health standards.

If you're not properly prepared, your shipment could be delayed, denied entry, or even destroyed at the border. That’s why understanding the legal and logistical landscape isn't optional - it’s the first step to success.

Here’s a useful stat to keep in mind:

According to the USDA, more than 20% of the U.S. food supply is imported (USDA Economic Research Service) - and that number is rising as American consumers continue to explore new international flavors.

Most successful food importers don’t start by trying to bring in everything - they begin with a specific niche. Whether it’s premium olive oil, single-origin cocoa, or authentic Vietnamese coffee, focusing on one category makes it easier to build a brand, manage compliance, and connect with the right audience.

Here are a few smart questions to ask yourself before diving in:

• Is there growing demand for this product in your target market?
• What’s the shelf life? Dry, packaged goods are much easier to handle than fresh or perishable items, especially if you’re just starting out.
• Who are the competitors, and how will your product stand out?

Pro Tip: Start with something you genuinely know and love. When you're passionate about a product, it shows - and that energy makes sourcing, selling, and storytelling so much more effective.

Compliance is non-negotiable when it comes to food imports. In the U.S., multiple agencies work together to oversee the process - including the FDA, USDA, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Missing a step could mean costly delays, or worse, losing your shipment altogether.

Key Regulatory Steps:

• Register with the FDA: Most facilities - whether in the U.S. or abroad - that manufacture, process, pack, or store food for U.S. consumption must be registered with the FDA. - FDA Facility Registration Info
• Prior Notice: Before your shipment reaches the U.S. border, you must notify the FDA through the Prior Notice System Interface. It’s required for all food products.
• U.S. Customs Entry: You’ll need to submit the correct paperwork — including the bill of lading, commercial invoice, and packing list — through U.S. Customs. This is typically done with the help of a licensed Customs Broker.

Additional Requirements:

• Certain categories, like meat, dairy, and fresh produce, need USDA inspection and approval.
• Organic imports must be USDA Organic certified.
• Alcoholic beverages require licensing through the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB).

Pitfall: Mistakes in paperwork, missing labels, or non-compliant packaging can cause major setbacks - from delays to full shipment destruction. Always review sample labels and documentation carefully before you ship.

Starting a food import business in the U.S. is relatively straightforward, but there are a few key things you’ll need to have in place before you get started:

Business Essentials:

• A legal business entity - LLC, corporation, or partnership
• An EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS
• A DUNS number - not required, but helpful for credit checks and many import-related registrations
• State and local business licenses, depending on where you operate
• Importer of Record status - this is the legal entity responsible for customs compliance
• Food dealer or wholesaler’s license - required in some states if you plan to store or distribute food.

Pro Tip:
Many successful food importers work with a licensed Customs Broker. These professionals handle the complex paperwork, help you navigate agency rules, and can save you from costly errors or delays at the border.

Sourcing is the heartbeat of your food import business. The producers you choose overseas will shape your brand, your product quality, and your customer trust. That’s why it’s crucial to work with suppliers who are not only reputable and reliable, but also easy to communicate with.

How to Find the Right Suppliers:

• Attend major food trade shows like SIAL, Anuga, or the Fancy Food Show to connect with vetted producers and explore trends firsthand.
• Use global trade platforms such as Alibaba or Global Sources to start conversations - but always verify certificates, product specs, and past references before committing.
• Visit in person, or work with a trusted sourcing agent to inspect facilities and build real relationships.
• Start small with trial orders and request product samples to test quality and consistency before scaling up.

Make sure you’re crystal clear on expectations - from packaging and labeling to certifications and delivery timelines. Your business reputation is only as strong as your supply chain.

For more detailed guidance on sourcing coffee specifically, check out Choosing a Wholesale Coffee Supplier: 7 Key Questions to Ask.

Getting your products into the U.S. is about more than just placing an order — international shipping and logistics play a huge role in your success.

Key Steps to Plan For:

• Choose Your Shipping Method: Air freight is fast and ideal for perishable or high-value goods, but it’s pricey. Ocean freight is slower but far more affordable, especially for large or bulky shipments.
• Work with a Freight Forwarder - Most importers rely on freight forwarders to manage shipping, customs clearance, and logistics paperwork. They help keep things running smoothly - and legally.
• Handle Customs Clearance - Be ready with the correct documentation, coordinate with your customs broker or forwarder, and make sure tariffs and duties are paid on time.
• Plan Your Warehousing - Depending on your setup, you can rent a warehouse, use a third-party fulfillment center, or even drop-ship directly to your retail partners.
• Set Up Your Distribution Strategy - Will you sell wholesale to stores? Online via Amazon or your own site? Or through niche and specialty retailers? Each path has its own logistics and margin structure.

Pro Tip:
Don’t forget to calculate the full cost of getting your product to market - not just production and shipping, but also tariffs, insurance, storage, and compliance fees. Hidden costs can eat into your profit if you’re not prepared.

A strong marketing strategy is just as important as the product itself. It’s how you stand out in a crowded market and connect with the customers who care about what you’re offering.

Marketing Moves to Consider:

• Build a recognizable brand - From your logo to your packaging to your tone of voice - consistency builds trust and helps your product stick in people’s minds.
• Tell your origin story - Share the journey behind your product: where it comes from, who makes it, and why it matters. Storytelling adds depth and meaning that today’s consumers love.
• Get out there locally - Specialty food shows, pop-ups, and farmers’ markets are great for product testing, direct feedback, and building early buzz.
• Partner with retailers and restaurants - Sampling programs, local grocer placements, or featuring your product on a café menu can create exposure and word-of-mouth momentum.
• Sell online - Launch your own website or use platforms like Amazon, Faire, or Etsy to reach a wider audience without relying solely on physical retail.

Looking for inspiration? Check out our article Top Coffee Supply Companies: A Global Overview for Importers of Retail-Ready Brands for real-world examples of how coffee brands are positioning themselves globally.

Laws, tariffs, and consumer trends are always changing. Stay connected with industry associations like the National Association of Specialty Food Trade (Specialty Food Association) and subscribe to trade publications. Keep learning, optimizing, and scaling your product range as your business grows.

Starting a food import business in the U.S. takes planning, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to quality. But for the right entrepreneur, it’s also an exciting opportunity - a chance to introduce new flavors, cultures, and stories to American tables.

So ask yourself: Are you ready to bring something bold and delicious to the U.S. market?

With solid research, smart preparation, and a clear vision, there’s nothing stopping you from seeing your favorite products on store shelves - or in the hands of customers who can’t get enough.

Your journey starts now. Let’s make it a flavorful one.

If you’re looking for a reliable partner to start with, MR.VIET offers retail-ready Vietnamese coffee, chocolate, and tropical snacks. We already work with importers in North America and understand what it takes to get your first shipment across the border smoothly and successfully.