UK Business Tax Question

Hi there,
I’m in the process of setting up my own little ebay business. I am importing products into the UK from outside the EU, so I will be paying VAT and customs fees when I import the produts.

Now since I would of paid VAT already does that mean that I can apply for tax exempt status on ebay? I can’t imagine that I would have to pay VAT twice. Or is this a completely seprate issue?

Please advise.

Regards,
Al.