Japan Revises Import Declaration and Preliminary Review System

2026年5月12日

A significant update to Japan’s import declaration process has been announced, impacting foreign entrepreneurs engaged in trade. The revision of the preliminary review system will streamline the customs inspection process, potentially reducing delays and improving efficiency for businesses importing goods into Japan. Understanding these changes is crucial for foreign business owners to navigate the regulatory landscape effectively and ensure compliance.

📋 Quick Summary for Foreign Business Owners
Category: Regulatory Update

Background & Context

The Japanese customs framework is governed by the Customs Act (Zeikan-ho), which outlines the procedures for import declarations and inspections. The preliminary review system allows importers to receive advance notifications regarding the necessity of customs inspections. This system has been in place to facilitate smoother trade operations but has undergone revisions to enhance its efficiency. The recent update, effective from May 12, 2026, aims to improve the timing of notifications regarding inspection requirements, thereby expediting the import process. The Japan Customs (Nihon Zeikan) is the issuing authority responsible for these updates, ensuring that the importation process aligns with international trade standards and practices.

How This Affects Your Business in Japan

Item	Cost (JPY)	Cost (USD approx)	Notes
Company Registration	¥150,000 to ¥300,000	$1,000 to $2,000	One-time fee
Notary Fee	¥50,000	$350	Per document
Visa Application	¥4,000	$30	Per application

1. Foreign Residents Already Operating a Business in Japan
For those currently importing goods, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the revised notification timelines. Ensure that your import declarations are submitted promptly to benefit from the expedited review process. Failure to comply may result in delays and increased costs. Keep records of all communications with Japan Customs to ensure transparency and accountability.

2. Foreign Nationals Planning to Establish a New Company
If you are considering starting a business that involves importing goods, understanding the new preliminary review system is crucial. Prepare your import documentation in advance and consult with a customs broker to navigate the complexities of the revised system. This proactive approach will help mitigate risks associated with delays in customs clearance.

3. Foreign Investors Who Are NOT Residents of Japan
For investors looking to enter the Japanese market, awareness of the import declaration process is vital. Engage with local partners or customs experts to ensure compliance with the new regulations. This will not only facilitate smoother operations but also enhance your reputation in the Japanese market. Delays in understanding these changes could result in financial losses or missed opportunities.

Step-by-Step: What You Need to Do

Step 1: Review the New Guidelines
Visit the Japan Customs website to understand the updated preliminary review system. English support is available.
Office: Japan Customs (English Support: Yes)
Cost: Free (¥0)
Time: 1 hour
Pitfall: Not reviewing all relevant updates

Step 2: Prepare Import Documentation
Gather all necessary documents for your imports, including invoices and shipping documents.
Office: Customs Broker (English Support: Yes)
Cost: Varies
Time: 2-3 days
Pitfall: Missing documents

Step 3: Submit Import Declaration
File your import declaration with Japan Customs electronically.
Office: Japan Customs (English Support: Yes)
Cost: Free (¥0)
Time: 1 day
Pitfall: Incorrect data entry

Step 4: Await Notification
Monitor your email for notifications regarding the necessity of customs inspections.
Office: Japan Customs (English Support: Yes)
Cost: Free (¥0)
Time: 1-3 days
Pitfall: Ignoring notifications

Step 5: Respond to Inspection Requests
If notified of an inspection, prepare your goods for examination.
Office: Japan Customs (English Support: Yes)
Cost: Varies
Time: 1 day
Pitfall: Unprepared goods

Step 6: Complete Customs Clearance
Once inspections are completed, finalize your customs clearance.
Office: Japan Customs (English Support: Yes)
Cost: Varies
Time: 1 day
Pitfall: Delayed response

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	¥0	S$1	HK$1	₩1
Annual Filing Cost	¥150,000	S$300	HK$2,000	₩200,000
Visa Processing Time	3 months	1 month	1 month	2 months

What to Expect Next

Looking ahead, businesses should monitor any further legislative changes that may arise from ongoing discussions within the Ministry of Finance (Zaimu-sho) regarding trade facilitation. Key timelines to watch include potential updates to the Customs Act and related regulations, which could further streamline the import process. Keeping abreast of these developments will be crucial for foreign entrepreneurs aiming to establish or expand their operations in Japan.