Japan's Efforts to Ensure the Safety of Imported Foods

Luis Alberto Fing
Jul 24
2 min read

Welcome to Nichiboku's Japan Food Import Consulting Service

To ensure the safety of imported foods, Japan has developed one of the world's most comprehensive and structured food safety systems. With over 29 million tons of food imports in FY2023, this rigorous framework is essential for protecting public health and facilitating trusted trade relationships.

Introduction

Japan’s food self-sufficiency rate remains low—around 38% based on calories—making the country highly reliant on imports. In FY2023 alone, 2.35 million import notifications were processed. As Japan continues to depend on global food sources, the government implements a three-pillar strategy to ensure the safety of imported foods: measures in exporting countries, at points of import, and within domestic distribution.

Four scientists in lab coats analyze food samples. One examines an orange, another uses a microscope. A chart reads "Ensure the safety of imported foods.” — Japanese food safety experts conduct thorough inspections of imported products, ensuring adherence to safety standards in a professional laboratory environment.

Japan's Food Import Oversight System

The core of Japan’s system to ensure the safety of imported foods lies in the Imported Food Monitoring and Guidance Plan, mandated under Article 23 of the Food Sanitation Act. The system is structured around:

Exporting Country Measures: Japan shares regulatory updates, hosts seminars, and engages in bilateral negotiations to resolve compliance issues. Through JICA, it provides technical support and inspection training.
Import Measures: Managed by 32 quarantine offices and over 400 food sanitation inspectors. Inspections are categorized into guidance, monitoring, and enhanced monitoring based on risk levels.
Domestic Measures: Local governments carry out random inspections and coordinate rapid responses in case of violations. A Distribution Plan ensures traceability and quick recall actions if necessary.

Inspector examines yellow pepper beside box of veggies in lab, while two others take notes with clipboards. Focused mood, neutral colors. — Japanese food safety inspectors meticulously examine imported produce, implementing a risk-based approach as part of a global collaboration to ensure food quality and safety.

FY2023 Insights and Risk Management

In FY2023, 199,272 inspections were conducted, of which 101,096 were part of planned monitoring. The system identified 763 violations, mostly related to pesticide residues and aflatoxins. Enhanced monitoring protocols were activated in cases with overseas recalls to better ensure the safety of imported foods.

Importers are expected to proactively manage hygiene and stay informed about regulatory changes, such as the “Positive List System” for packaging materials and THC residue limits for CBD products. Pre-import consultations and proper documentation are encouraged to prevent entry delays.

Tailored Risk-Based Monitoring

Japan’s system also adjusts monitoring based on item and country risk profiles. High-risk imports like sesame and bananas undergo stricter inspection regimes. Improvements in exporting countries can lead to reduced monitoring intensity over time, rewarding compliance and further helping to ensure the safety of imported foods.

Achieve Compliance, Build Trust

Are you an exporter or importer aiming to meet Japan’s food safety standards? Contact our team for specifications or schedule a consultation to ensure your processes align with Japanese regulations.