Previous Next JavaScript must be enabled to correctly display this content

## 25.3.1 Understanding the Export and Import Process

Move a workspace, application, application components, or related file by creating an export file and then importing it into another APEX instance.

The export process consists of following steps:

1. Create the Export File.

   Export workspaces, themes, plug-ins, UI defaults, feedback,

   Exporting a workspace, page, or application components creates an export file. During the export process you can choose from two export file formats:

   - SQL - Creates a readable script file with a `.sql` extension.
   - APEXlang - Creates a human-readable and modifiable version which is delivered as a ZIP file using the naming convention `APPLICATION-ALIAS.ZIP`. APEXlang exports are optimized for AI generation, human readability, and source management systems.

   You can create export files using the Export pages available App Builder or from a command line.

   For details on creating an export file in App Builder, see Creating Export Files.

2. Import the Export File.

   Import the export file into the target APEX instance. From App Builder, you can import export files in two ways:

   - Upload the export file and immedicately import it.
   - Upload the export file and then import at a later time from the Export Repository.

   Alternatively, you can import and install from a command line. As a best practice, Oracle recommends importing an application first and then the related files.

   For details on importing and installing an export file in App Builder, see Importing Export Files.

About Exporting, Importing, and Installing from a Command Line

To export and import from a command line, Oracle recommends using Oracle SQL Developer Command Line (SQLcl) as described in Exporting and Importing Using SQLcl in Oracle APEX Administration Guide.

See Also:

- Managing Export Files from the Export Repository

- How to Create a Custom Application

Parent topic: Exporting and Importing from App Builder