1112 Customs Inspection on Imported Goods (FAQ) : Japan Customs

  Any person intending to import the relevant cargo shall file a declaration with the Director-General of Customs and must obtain an import permit after the inspection of the goods when necessary.

  Customs inspection is carried out to prevent the inflow of the commodities which will negatively affect society, maintain trading order, and ensure appropriate collection of customs duties, etc.

  The specific purpose of the customs inspection is to make sure the declared paperwork matches with the actual commodity, from the following perspectives;


(1)	To make sure no illegal commodities are imported: for example, commodities which have a negative effect on society such as stimulants and psychotropic substances, and commodities infringing intellectual property rights;
(2)	To make sure necessary procedures are carried out based on various laws and regulations related to banned goods for the purpose of food hygiene and plant protection;
(3)	To make sure the origin of goods is not falsely or mistakenly indicated; and
(4)	To make sure duty payment is declared appropriately.

  Particularly, illegal drug (such as stimulants and narcotics) abuse has been a growing problem among young people, and gun-related crimes involving innocent citizens have increased in recent years. It is therefore increasingly important to interdict commodities with a negative affect on society at the border.

  The Customs Office performs necessary cargo inspections in order to meet such social needs.

  Even in this case, the Customs Office makes concerted efforts to carry out smooth customs inspections so as to facilitate international logistics. Therefore, we ask your understanding regarding the intention and purpose of the customs inspections and your support for effective and efficient customs inspections.

(Article 67 of the Customs Law)