Imports from the distant East (4)
I believe the answer is:
teas
'imports' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are plural nouns, I don't see how they can define each other.
'from the distant east' is the wordplay.
'from' indicates the answer is hidden within the clue.
'TEAS' is hidden in the letters of 'distant east'.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for teas that I've seen before include "Beverages from leaves" , "Hot drinks" , "Beverage made by steeping leaves in water" , "Afternoon meals" .)