Food Import Procedure in Japan: Technical and Regulatory Guide

Luis Alberto Fing
Jul 22
2 min read

Updated: Jul 24

Welcome to Nichiboku's Japan Food Import Consulting Service

Introduction

Food Import Procedure in Japan is a key concern for exporters seeking to enter this high-demand market. Entering the Japanese food market presents significant opportunities, but also complex regulatory challenges. With stringent standards established to ensure consumer safety and product quality, understanding Japan’s food import procedures is essential for international exporters. This guide highlights the critical compliance points and practical steps involved, especially for businesses seeking expert regulatory consulting.

Step-by-step insights into the food import procedure in Japan. — Business professionals reviewing guidelines on food import procedures in Japan, with a selection of food products on display.

Step-by-Step Guide to Japanese Food Import Procedures

1. Pre-Import Preparations

Product Assessment

Product Classification: Ensure your product fits within Japanese food categories as defined in the Food Sanitation Act (FSA). Special attention is required for dietary supplements and products with additives.
Documentation: Prepare ingredient lists, manufacturing processes, origin certificates, and lab analyses. Japanese translations are often mandatory.

Supplier Evaluation

Facility Standards: HACCP and GMP certifications are preferred by Japanese authorities. Providing audit reports or certifications is highly recommended.

2. Regulatory Requirements

Food Sanitation Act (FSA)

Additives and Contaminants: Only approved food additives are allowed within set limits. Pesticide residues and heavy metals must not exceed regulatory thresholds.
Prohibited Substances: Certain ingredients are entirely banned.

Food Labeling Act

Label Content: Mandatory elements include product name, ingredients, allergens, net weight, expiration date, country of origin, and storage instructions, all in Japanese.
Nutritional Information: Required for many food types; health claims are tightly controlled.

3. Import Notification and Quarantine

Import Notification

Notification Form: Must be submitted to local quarantine offices prior to customs clearance.
Document Review: Quarantine officials may request additional information.

Quarantine Inspection

Risk-Based Screening: Inspections depend on product type, origin, and past compliance.
Sampling and Testing: First-time or high-risk items are often tested.

4. Customs Clearance

Certificate of Notification: Issued after quarantine approval, allowing customs declaration.
Customs Declaration: Submit required documentation including invoices, bills of lading, packing lists, and certificates.
Duty and Tax Assessment: Customs calculates duties, taxes, and any applicable quotas.

5. Post-Import Obligations

Traceability: Importers must maintain records for potential recalls.
Monitoring: Regular audits ensure ongoing compliance, especially for novel or previously non-compliant products.

6. Additional Considerations

Special Licenses: Some goods, like alcohol and organic foods, require extra certifications.
Local Partnership: Collaborating with a Japanese consultant, such as Nichiboku, streamlines compliance.
Regulatory Updates: Regulations evolve—ongoing consulting ensures continued market access.
Team at Nichiboku Marketing reviews detailed guidelines on food import procedures in Japan, emphasizing strategic regulatory consulting for smooth market entry.

Regulatory Consulting Support from Nichiboku: Food Import Procedure in Japan

With comprehensive expertise in Japanese import laws, Nichiboku offers tailored regulatory consulting services for food importers. From document preparation to quarantine coordination, our services minimize risks and maximize your market entry potential.