Japan: Import (general)
Japan: Import (general)
Important: Be sure to check both general and product-based categories for relevant information. Product-based categories include parts and accessories unless otherwise specified. See disclaimer below and use independent care before relying on this information.
Advance manifest requirements: Cargo information must be submitted by the carrier to customs prior to arrival in Japan.
All shipping documents must show weights and measures in metric system units.
The Japanese government is thorough and strict in enforcing its regulations and inspection requirements, especially with regard to foods and agricultural products.
The maximum weight for a 20-foot container must not exceed 24 metric tons (52,910 pounds). The maximum weight for a 40-foot container must not exceed 30.48 metric tons (67,196 pounds).
(Last updated on 2011-11-16)
Customs clearance is required for imported goods.
A simplified customs clearance procedure is available for goods with a customs value of 200,000 yen or less.
For details see the Japan Customs website: Simplified customs clearance for low-value import goods.
Goods with a customs value of 100,000 yen or less are eligible for application of a simplified tariff. For details see the Japan Customs website: Simplified tariff applicable to goods at a total value of 100,000 yen or less.
For detailed information on custom clearance procedures in Japan, see the Japan Customs website: Import Clearance.
(Last updated on 2011-11-16)
Japan's tariff is based on the Harmonized Tariff System (HTS).
Japan's tariff includes general rates, WTO rates, temporary rates, and preferential rates (both GSP and relating to preferential trade agreements).
Certain items are subject to a tariff rate quota (TRQ).
Fresh produce is subject to seasonal duty rates.
There is a simplified tariff which applies to shipments under 100,000 yen.
Goods valued at 10,000 yen or less are typically duty-free.
Links to Japan tariff system: (select "Tariff Schedule from the menu on the left).
Additional taxes and surcharges which may apply: Consumption tax (5%)
For more on tariff and tax information see Laws, Customs, Tariff and Tax Information.
(Last updated on 2011-11-16)
Most goods now qualify as "freely importable" and do not require an import license.
Exceptions include hazardous materials, animals, plants, perishables, and in some cases articles of high value as well as commodities falling under import quota restrictions. In such a case, the Japanese importer must apply for license approval.
The import license issued for items under quota restrictions usually will be valid for four months from the date of issuance.
(Last updated on 2012-03-20)
The Japan Customs website provides a list of Goods Subject to Prohibitions, Controls & Restrictions
(Last updated on 2011-11-16)
Foreign exchange is regulated by the Ministry of Finance Japan and the Bank of Japan: Nippon Ginko.
Certain other banks are authorized to approve and handle foreign exchange transactions.
The unit of currency is the Japanese yen (¥) divided into 100 sen.
(Last updated on 2011-11-16)
At least two (2) copies of the commercial invoice should precede or accompany the shipped goods. It is recommended that exporters check with their customer in Japan for the exact number of invoice copies required as well as the particulars of the information required on them for the specific goods shipped.
Originals must be on shipper's letterhead and signed by the shipper or an authorized representative.
List the contents of each package in the consignment and include country of origin information.
A description of shipping containers must be included on invoice.
Net weight, gross weight and cube should be shown in metric system units.
Include on the invoice all marks and numbers on the shipped packages as well as the unit price, the total commercial value and the manner in which that value was determined.
Harmonized Tariff System (HTS) classification numbers should be used to mark packages and should be listed on invoice.
All expenses should be itemized including freight, insurance, and shipping charges, including cost of packaging.
Neither certification by a Chamber of Commerce nor consular legalization are required.
For more information on preparing and distributing commercial invoices, see GISTnet headings: Commercial Invoice and Shipping Document Distribution Based on Specific Functional Needs. See details pertaining to airwaybill (AWB).
Non-commercial shipments will require a pro-forma invoice.
For airfreight shipments, documents in most cases should accompany cargo.
(Last updated on 2011-11-16)
It is recommended that a packing list be established for all shipments containing more than one shipping unit of packaged cargo. For most destination countries it is mandatory to provide a packing list together with the commercial invoice
The exact contents of each package is to be clearly identified with its respective gross weight and net weight, and with its marks and numbers.
Include at least 3 copies of the packing list as part of the shipping documents provided to the consignee.
See definition of packing list for required information, which must be consistent with all information shown on the commercial invoice.
(Last updated on 2012-04-25)
Import shipments of raw silk cloth and imports granted duty concessions or preferential treatment require two (2) copies of a Certificate of Origin (CO, C/O).
When required by the buyer (consignee) or the terms of a letter of credit (L/C), the number may vary. The general C/O form, available from commercial printers, may be used. Each must be signed, notarized and then certified by a legal Chamber of Commerce. No consular legalization is required.
For goods qualifying for GSP Concessions under Japan's Generalized System of Preferences, a GSP Form A may be used.
For more information see the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website: JAPAN'S GSP (Generalized System of Preferences).
(Last updated on 2011-11-16)
Shippers who wish to protect their interests in the cargo in the event of loss or damage prior to delivery to the ultimate consignee should obtain cargo insurance with either an FOB/FAS clause or, more advisable, a contingency insurance clause coverage.
Having obtained that insurance coverage for the shipment, a copy of the insurance certificate or the insurance policy should be included in the shipping documents sent to the consignee or the agent/transportation intermediary thereof.
For more information regarding when to insure and the types of insurance coverage, refer to GISTnet heading: Shipping Risk Management, Carrier Liability, Insurance and Claims Procedures.
(Last updated on 2012-03-28)
Cargo containers are subject to weight restrictions: A 20-foot container may not exceed 24 metric tons (52,910 pounds)and a 40-foot container may not exceed 30.48 metric tons (67,196 pounds), total cargo weight, including the container.
Straw packing material is prohibited.
In general, follow standard shipping practices:
Wood packing materials must be treated to conform with the ISPM-15 standard.
For more information, see our Glossary definitions of ISPM-15 and WPM mark.
(Last updated on 2011-11-19)
Labels are not required prior to customs clearance, but at the point when goods are being sold.
Clothing and fabrics, food and beverage products require country of origin labeling.
Special labeling requirements apply to food products, textiles, plastic products, pharmaceuticals, electrical appliances, pet food, packaging materials, and certain household and consumer goods.
False or misleading labels are prohibited.
Exporters should check with their customer in Japan for specific product requirements.
(Last updated on 2011-11-16)
Many products are subject to standards. Certain regulated products must have a certification and/or bear a mark indicating that the product is in compliance with set standards.
Exporters should conform to instructions from their importers in Japan.
Information on standards may also be obtained from the Standards Information Service of the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) (select "search" and type in "standards").
(Last updated on 2011-11-16)
ATA Carnets are accepted in this country.
The United Arab Emirates accepts carnets for exhibitions and fairs only, and only at the following ports:
Note: The ATA Carnet does NOT cover perishable or consumable items or goods for processing or repair.
Initiated by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), 38, Cours Albert 1er; F-75008 Paris; France; tel: +33 149 532828; fax: +33 149 532859
an ATA Carnet is obtained in the country from which the goods are to be first exported. It is issued by a National Guaranteeing Association, or by one of its authorized issuing agencies (go to your Continent and select your country).
Carnets ATA are currently accepted in over 75 countries. For a convenient list of participating countries see Countries that accept Carnets.
Note: Some countries are more restrictive in the scope of allowances for temporary imports covered by Carnet ATA. It is recommended that prior verification be made with issuing agency.
For more information on the use of and application for the ATA carnet in Dubai, see: Dubai Chamber: ATA Carnet.
(Last updated on 2012-05-11)
Important: Exercise independent care before relying on information contained herein. Although we strive to ensure all information is correct and current, GISTnet assumes no liability for detrimental reliance on this information. Trade requirements may change with little or no prior notification, de-facto requirements in certain countries vary from official regulations, and particular shipments and/or importers may have special destination customs arrangements. We encourage you to check with the importer or its customs agent in the destination country for specific importation requirements for specific products and circumstances. We ask your help with feedback (cidb@gistnet.com) concerning information which may be outdated or incomplete.
