Fix: ESM packages need to be imported error

The ‘ESM packages need to be imported’ error occurs when trying to require() an ES module package instead of using import(), or when there’s a module system mismatch in your Node.js project.

How the Error Happens

❌ Error Scenario:

// ❌ This causes the error
const somePackage = require('esm-package'); // ❌ ESM packages need to be imported
// Error: ESM packages need to be imported

✅ Quick Fix - Handle ESM Packages Properly

Solution 1: Use Import Instead of Require

// ❌ Wrong way
// const package = require('esm-package');

// ✅ Correct way
import package from 'esm-package';
// OR
import { specificExport } from 'esm-package';

Solution 2: Use Dynamic Import for ESM in CommonJS

// ✅ Use dynamic import in CommonJS files
const package = await import('esm-package');
const actualPackage = package.default;

Solution 3: Configure Package.json for Mixed Modules

// ✅ In package.json, specify module type
{
  "name": "my-app",
  "type": "module",  // ✅ Enables ES modules
  "main": "index.js",
  "exports": {
    "import": "./dist/index.js",
    "require": "./dist/index.cjs"
  }
}

Solution 4: Use CreateRequire for CommonJS Compatibility

// ✅ Use createRequire in ES modules to require CommonJS
import { createRequire } from 'module';
const require = createRequire(import.meta.url);

// ✅ Now you can use require for CommonJS packages
const commonJsPackage = require('commonjs-package');