Guide for U.S. Companies: Import Regulations When Sourcing Products from Japan

A practical, category-by-category overview for American buyers

Introduction: Why Importing products from Japan Feels Complicated

Japan is known for high-quality products, exceptional craftsmanship, and reliable manufacturing. But for many U.S. companies, sourcing from Japan feels intimidating because:

• Regulations differ by product category

• Multiple U.S. agencies may be involved (FDA, USDA, CPSC, FCC, CBP)

• Documentation requirements are strict

• Japanese suppliers often lack export experience

• Language and communication barriers slow down the process

This guide provides a clear, practical overview of what U.S. companies need to know before importing Japanese products.

The Two Layers of Regulation You Must Understand

When importing from Japan, U.S. companies must comply with:

(1) U.S. regulations

These are enforced by agencies such as:

• FDA – food, cosmetics, some tableware

• USDA – agricultural products

• CPSC – toys and consumer goods

• FCC – electronics

• CBP – customs and tariff classification

(2) Japanese export requirements

These include:

• Export documentation

• HS code classification

• Certificates (if required)

• Dangerous goods rules for air shipments

Both sides matter. Even if a product is legal in Japan, it may not be legal in the U.S.

3. Category-by-Category Import Requirements (U.S. Side)

A. Food & Beverages

Food is one of the most regulated categories in the U.S.

Key U.S. Requirements

• FDA registration (for the foreign facility)

• FSVP (Foreign Supplier Verification Program) – mandatory for U.S. importers

• Nutrition Facts label (must follow U.S. format)

• Allergen labeling (FALCPA)

• Ingredient compliance (no prohibited additives)

• Prior Notice before shipment

Common Issues

• Japanese suppliers rarely provide U.S.-compliant labels

• Ingredient lists may be incomplete

• Nutrition Facts must be reformatted

  
  

B. Tableware & Kitchenware

Tableware is easier than food, but still regulated.

Key U.S. Requirements

• FDA regulates food-contact materials

• Lead & cadmium limits for ceramics and glass

• Country of origin marking (“Made in Japan”)

• Material labeling (recommended)

Common Issues

• Traditional Japanese ceramics may require lead testing

• Some artisans cannot provide documentation

C. Toys & Baby Products

The U.S. has strict safety standards for children’s products.

Key U.S. Requirements

• CPSC compliance

• ASTM F963 testing

• CPC (Children’s Product Certificate)

• Lead & phthalate limits

• Tracking labels

Common Issues

• Small Japanese makers rarely know U.S. toy regulations

• Testing costs can be high

  
  

D. Fragrance & Home Scents

Two categories exist:

1. Home Fragrance (Diffusers, Candles, Room Sprays)

→ Usually not regulated as cosmetics

→ Treated as consumer goods

→ Must comply with:

• Flammability rules

• Hazardous materials rules (for air shipments)

  
  

2. Perfume / Body Mist

→ Cosmetics under FDA

→ Requires:

• Ingredient compliance

• Labeling rules

• No prohibited claims

E. Cosmetics

Cosmetics are regulated by FDA and MoCRA (2023).

Key U.S. Requirements

• Ingredient compliance

• Labeling rules

• No drug-like claims

• Facility registration

• Product listing

Common Issues

• Japanese INCI names may not match U.S. requirements

• Claims like “whitening” or “medicated” are prohibited

  
  

F. Electronics

Electronics must comply with:

• FCC (radio frequency)

• UL (safety; not mandatory but expected by retailers)

• Battery shipping regulations (IATA)

  
  

G. General Consumer Goods (雑貨)

This is the easiest category.

• No FDA

• No CPSC (unless for children)

• No FCC

• Simple labeling

4. Common Challenges When Sourcing from Japan

U.S. companies often struggle with:

• Japanese suppliers not providing English documentation

• Lack of export experience

• Missing ingredient lists

• No U.S.-compliant labels

• Slow communication

• Small makers not understanding U.S. regulations

• Difficulty shipping small quantities

  
  

5. How IRODORI Lab Supports U.S. Companies

We bridge between U.S. buyers and Japanese makers. Include:

• Identifying suitable Japanese suppliers

• Collecting required documentation

• Translating ingredient lists & technical sheets

• Advising on labeling compliance

• Managing communication with Japanese manufacturers

  
  

Importing products from Japan is absolutely possible and often highly rewarding, but the regulatory landscape can be confusing without local support.

With the right partner in Japan, you can source high-quality Japanese products smoothly, safely, and efficiently.