Customs Clearance
Given the permission of customs clearance business authorized by the finance minister, we have deployed nine customs clearance offices nationwide.
We also received certification from the Director-General of Tokyo Customs as an “authorized customs broker” under the AEO system in June 2017, and have utilized liberalization of our import/export declaration offices.
Our customs clearing professionals led by registered customs specialists deliver swift and effective customs clearing based on compliance such as the Customs Business Act and Customs Law.
Basic knowledge of customs clearance
When importing or exporting goods in trade, declare the goods name, type, quantity, and value of the goods to the customs office, pass the necessary inspections, pay customs duties and other fees for imports, and then obtain a permit. We act as your valuable agent in these complicated procedures that require specialized knowledge against numerous laws and regulations.
HS Code
HS Code is a globally common number established based on the International Convention on Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding Systems.All items are classified into six-digit numbers, and HS codes are used to collect statistical data on imports and exports in Japan.
Incoterms
Incoterms (International Commercial Terms) are international rules established by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) in 1963 that define the terms and conditions of trade, including the burden and scope of costs in trade transactions. Since their enactment, they have been revised over the years, with the most recent revision issued in January 2020.
Introduction of Customs Think Tank Activities
In FY 2019, we launched the "Customs Think Tank Project" to explain the complex systems and rules of the EPA to our clients in an easy-to-understand manner and provide consultative services on trade practices, using the reduction in duty payments through the application of the agreed tariff rates as a visual indicator.
As an example, we have applied Japan-EU EPA and RCEP, leading to tariff reduction of mainly branded clothing, bags, and leather products.
Introduction of other laws and regulations
Particular goods imported from foreign countries have a negative impact on Japanese industry, economy, health, public safety, etc., and their importation is restricted by the respective domestic laws and regulations.The same applies to goods exported from Japan, which require permission or approval at the time of export from the perspective of maintaining international peace and security, ensuring domestic demand, and complying with international agreements.
Examples of items regulated by other laws and regulations
There are various items for which import restrictions are imposed by other laws and regulations.Here are some examples and contact information for inquiries.
Fruits, Vegetables, Flowers and Seeds - (Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries)
Processed Foods - (Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare)
Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices -(Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare)
Narcotics and Psychotropics drugs- (Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare)
Chemicals -(Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare)
Animals, Meat and Dairy Products -(Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries)
Fur - (Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry)