Node.js - SyntaxError: Unexpected token import

🚀 Node.js - SyntaxError: Unexpected token import

So you're working with Node.js and you're encountering a "SyntaxError: Unexpected token import" error? Don't worry, we've got you covered! This error usually occurs when you're trying to use the import statement in Node.js, which is not natively supported.

What's the problem?

Node.js uses the CommonJS module system by default, which means you should be using the require statement to import modules instead of import. The import statement, on the other hand, is used in JavaScript modules that support ECMAScript 6 (ES6) syntax.

In the code you provided, the error occurs because Node.js encounters the import statement but doesn't recognize it.

The solution - transpile your code

To resolve this issue, you need to transpile your code from ES6 syntax to CommonJS syntax that Node.js can understand. There are several tools you can use to achieve this, but one of the most popular options is Babel.

Here's a step-by-step guide to get your code up and running:

1. Install Babel and the necessary presets:

npm install --save-dev @babel/core @babel/cli @babel/preset-env

1. Create a .babelrc file in the root of your project with the following content:

{
  "presets": ["@babel/preset-env"]
}

1. Transpile your code using Babel. Assuming your entry file is named index.js, run the following command:

npx babel --watch --out-dir dist src

In this example, your original code will be transpiled into the dist folder.

1. Import the transpiled code using the require statement:

const express = require('express');

Remember to adjust the import statements in your codebase wherever you're using the import statement.

📢 Time to take action!

Now that you know how to fix the "SyntaxError: Unexpected token import" error, it's time to apply this knowledge to your code. Go ahead, give it a try, and see if the error disappears. If you still encounter any issues or have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out for help.

🎉 Keep learning and sharing!

Coding can be challenging, but with the right knowledge and tools, you can overcome any obstacle. Remember to keep learning, experimenting, and sharing your newfound knowledge with others. We hope this guide has been helpful and that you'll continue to grow as a Node.js developer.

If you found this blog post useful or have any feedback, we'd love to hear from you! Leave a comment below or share this post with your fellow developers. Happy coding! 💻🙌