Understanding Japan Customs
Customs duties vary tremendously in Japan and duty exemptions and preferential duties are available for the majority of imported goods.
Japan imposes import quotas and/or import licenses for specific items such as firearms, chemical weapons, silk, grains and products originating from certain countries such as Iraq. Proper tariff classification is critical.
Certain goods, although not requiring an import license, are subject to prior confirmation by the relevant authority before they can be imported into Japan.
The Customs and Tariff Bureau is responsible for enforcing customs and related laws, and for collecting customs duties and other taxes on imported goods.
Customs authorities sometimes accept certain vendor managed inventory structures, which can effectively manage and control customs duties and sales tax if implemented properly.
Services Offered
Our professional services focus on both savings and strategic opportunities as well as risk management. Among other things, we provide assistance in the following areas:
- Proactive Customs Planning (valuation strategies)
- Audit Management
- Customs "Health Checks"
- Warehouse and Foreign Trade Zone Strategies
- Tariff Classification
- Duty Refunds and Revenue Recovery
- Import Policy and Process Implementation
- Negotiation with Customs Authorities
- Supply Chain Security Validation
- Export Controls and Special Licensing Requirements
- Filing of protest and appeal if necessary
