Guidelines on Procedures Related to Anti-Dumping Duties in Japan

On April 28, 2026, Japan’s Customs and Tariff Bureau announced new guidelines regarding anti-dumping duties. These guidelines are crucial for foreign entrepreneurs engaged in import-export activities, as they outline procedures that could significantly affect their operations.

Background & Context

The new guidelines issued by Japan’s Customs and Tariff Bureau (Zaiyū Kanrikyoku) address procedures related to anti-dumping duties, tariffs imposed on goods priced below fair market value. This framework aims to protect domestic industries from unfair competition, aligning with Japan’s commitment to fair trade practices and international agreements. Governed under the Customs Act (Kanzei-hō) and the Anti-Dumping Act (Fukōdō Shōhi-hō), these laws have been amended to enhance transparency in trade.

How This Affects Your Business in Japan

Item	Cost (JPY)	Cost (USD approx)	Notes
Company Registration	¥150,000	$1,000	Standard registration fee
Notary Fee	¥50,000	$350	For document notarization
Visa Application	¥4,000	$30	Standard application fee

1. Foreign Residents Already Operating a Business in Japan
If you are importing goods into Japan, familiarize yourself with the new anti-dumping guidelines. Review pricing strategies and ensure compliance to avoid tariffs. Consult with a trade lawyer or customs expert to assess risk exposure and prepare documentation for investigations. Non-compliance could lead to financial penalties and business disruptions.

2. Foreign Nationals Planning to Establish a New Company
Understanding these guidelines is essential if your business model involves importing goods. Conduct market research to identify anti-dumping risks and prepare documentation for the Customs and Tariff Bureau. Engaging a local consultant familiar with Japanese customs can aid in navigating these complexities.

3. Foreign Investors Who Are NOT Residents of Japan
Understand how anti-dumping duties may affect investment returns. Conduct due diligence on companies, focusing on import practices and anti-dumping investigation history. Consult legal experts in Japan to understand guideline implications on investment strategy, as ignoring regulations could lead to unforeseen costs.

Step-by-Step: What You Need to Do

Step 1: Review the New Guidelines
Visit the Customs and Tariff Bureau’s website to read the full guidelines on anti-dumping duties. English support is available.
Office: Customs and Tariff Bureau (English Support: Yes)
Cost: Free (¥0)
Time: 1-2 hours
Pitfall: Not reviewing all sections thoroughly

Step 2: Assess Your Current Import Practices
Analyze pricing strategies and product sourcing to identify risks related to anti-dumping duties. Consult a trade lawyer if needed.
Office: Legal Consultant (English Support: Yes)
Cost: Varies based on legal fees
Time: 1-2 days
Pitfall: Overlooking minor pricing discrepancies

Step 3: Prepare Necessary Documentation
Gather all required documents for compliance, including invoices, contracts, and pricing information.
Office: Customs and Tariff Bureau (English Support: Limited)
Cost: Varies
Time: 1 week
Pitfall: Missing critical documents

Step 4: Submit Documentation to Customs and Tariff Bureau
If facing an investigation, submit your documentation as per the guidelines. Contact the Bureau for assistance if needed.
Office: Customs and Tariff Bureau (English Support: Yes)
Cost: Free (¥0)
Time: 1-2 weeks
Pitfall: Late submission

Step 5: Monitor Changes in Regulations
Stay updated on amendments to anti-dumping guidelines or related laws. Subscribe to newsletters from the Customs and Tariff Bureau.
Office: Customs and Tariff Bureau (English Support: Yes)
Cost: Free (¥0)
Time: Ongoing
Pitfall: Not subscribing to updates

Key Contacts
www.jetro.go.jp/en/
www.moj.go.jp/isa/
www.customs.go.jp/english/
www.nta.go.jp/english/

Expert Analysis: Japan vs. Regional Competitors

Metric	Japan	Singapore	Hong Kong	South Korea
Incorporation Time	14 days	3 days	5 days	10 days
Minimum Capital Requirement	¥1	$1	$1	₩100,000
Corporate Tax Rate	30%	17%	16.5%	22%
Visa Processing Time	2 weeks	1 week	1 week	2 weeks

What to Expect Next

Foreign entrepreneurs should monitor potential legislative changes that may refine anti-dumping regulations. The Japanese government is likely to continue aligning with international trade standards, potentially leading to more streamlined processes. Updates from the Customs and Tariff Bureau are expected within the next year.

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Sources & References

This article is based on the following source and enhanced with professional analysis for foreign business owners.
Source: 不当廉売関税等に関する手続等についてのガイドラインの掲載について

⚠️ This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a qualified Japanese attorney (bengoshi) or judicial scrivener (shiho shoshi) for advice specific to your situation.