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Importing to Japan

Japan is a prime market for big tech and cloud firms, with major players already operating data centers in the country. However, if you want to import your tech gear to Japan and ensure smooth entry, you’ll need the right expertise in product compliance to facilitate fast and hassle-free entry.

Japan

Japanese Imports

HS code categorization is extremely important to ensure your shipment is compliant for entry into Japan. In recent months, Japan has implemented restrictions against 23 types of equipment, including devices that etch out microscopic circuits of dual-use chips

 

Japan has robust environmental laws that require certain electronic goods to meet energy efficiency and disposal standards. Compliance with the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Regulations is necessary. This is particularly important for electronics that could contribute to e-waste.

 

TecEx’s Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) service goes beyond last-mile delivery, with added white-glove services to get your goods where they need to be. With TecEx acting as your Importer of Record (IOR) into Japan, you do not need to worry about appointing an Attorney for Customs Procedure (ACP).

Pain Points for Importing to Japan

Importing to Japan requires careful attention to regulatory, logistical, and market-specific factors to ensure compliance with Japanese customs. For instance, labels must be in Japanese (and often in English) and must include essential information such as the product name, manufacturer, usage instructions, and safety warnings. This is especially important for electrical products. 

 

Electronic products must have clear labeling, often including safety certifications like PSE Product Safety Electrical (PSE) marks. PSE regulations apply to over 450 product categories. In a few cases, you might need extra checks in Japan, especially around the product’s safety record.

Japan Pain points

Countries That Trade with Japan

Asia

China

North America

United States of America (USA)

Asia

South Korea

Exporting from Japan

Japan imposes restrictions on certain types of technology, particularly items that could threaten national security or violate international sanctions. When exporting dual-use goods, such as GPUs, from Japan, special export licenses are required to prevent potential misuse of the technology. 

 

Additionally, Japan’s adherence to international agreements, such as the Wassenaar Arrangement, introduces further layers of scrutiny, particularly for advanced GPUs. These regulations, combined with logistical challenges make exporting dual-use tech gear a highly regulated and intricate process.

Population

124,5 m

Biggest Industry by Export

Cars

Capital City

Tokyo

Biggest Industry by Import

Chemicals

Specialized Solution for Importing to Japan

While Japan has a relatively low tariff regime for high-tech goods, particularly those from countries with free trade agreements, duties may still apply depending on the type of product. Furthermore, Japan applies a 10% consumption tax instead of a VAT/GST tax on imported products. This tax must be paid at the time of import, and the importer is responsible for both the collection and remittance to Japanese authorities.

 

Japan has strict enforcement measures for consumption tax (JCT) violations. Any non-compliance can result in significant penalties, including fines and potential criminal charges. TecEx guarantees a smooth import process for your tech gear while avoiding potential JCT violations.

 

Navigating Japanese compliance demands, especially for specific HS codes, can be challenging. TecEx has you covered with our comprehensive HS code compliance database, ensuring accurate classification for all components of your tech equipment. As import compliance specialists, we ensure the correct compliance documentation is sourced, even for HS codes that require non-standard documentation. We will also check if your goods need to undergo a PSE inspection.

Smart Solutions To Get Your Goods Into Japan Efficiently

Japan’s other major imports include fashion, consumer goods, and promotional shipments, which require extra compliance due to the country’s strict customs regulations. TecEx can step in as the Importer of Record, taking on the legal import responsibilities in a market known for its detailed procedures. We support product compliance and manage return logistics. We have built a solution to facilitate the import of goods into Japan as fast and compliantly as possible. 

Japan and AI

As AI integration across sectors fuels graphics processing unit (GPU) demand, chipmakers must navigate complex import and export regulations, straining an already fragile supply chain. Navigating these challenges faced by advanced GPU shipping requires concerted efforts, industry know-how, and reputable compliance expertise. Within the AI space, we have a dedicated team that specifically deals with the heavy compliance and logistics requirements needed for AI gear to cross borders.

 

Is your AI shipment covered for any damage, loss, or theft? While measures and standard conventions are in place to ensure the safety of consignments – mistakes and unforeseen events do occur. Utilize our global liability cover to remove the risk from your supply chain.

Want to Ship to Japan?

Ready to expand your tech operations into Japan? Don’t let compliance hurdles slow you down. Partner with experts who can help you import to Japan quickly and confidently—get started today!


Further Reading on Imports to Japan