Rev. Ruling 56-429

Importer's Basic Permit

Section 3(a) of the Federal Alcohol Administration Act makes it unlawful, except pursuant to a basic permit, to engage in the business of importing into the United States distilled spirits, wine, or malt beverages, or for any person so engaged to sell, offer, or deliver for sale, contract to sell, or ship, in interstate or foreign commerce, directly or indirectly, or through an affiliate, distilled spirits, wine, or malt beverages so imported. Held, a person who does not himself import, buy, or sell distilled spirits, wine, or beer, but acts solely as an agent for a foreign firm which sells to United States' importers, is not required to obtain a basic permit.

27 U.S.C. 203