Hydrogen imports from outside the EU have become an integral part of most decarbonisation pathways, both at national and union levels. Particularly noteworthy is the indicative target of 10 Mt of hydrogen imports by 2030 announced in the RePower EU initiative. Additionally, support schemes such as the announced external leg of the Hydrogen Bank, underscore the EU’s intention to count on imports to fulfil its future hydrogen demand. However, hydrogen imports come with an array of associated risks and challenges that demand attention if the EU is to establish a sustainable hydrogen economy that contributes positively to global decarbonisation efforts.