ORIGIN VERIFICATION

(1) Purpose of verification
“Verification” is a process of confirming the originating status of goods which have already been imported under preferential tariff treatment of Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) or Generalized System of Preferences (GSP). Customs conducts verification of origin in accordance with the provision of each EPA and Customs-related laws and regulations.
In order to benefit from the preferential tariff under an EPA or GSP, the imported good must qualify as originating in accordance with the applicable rules of origin of the EPA or GSP. Through verification, Customs ensures the proper application of preferential tariff treatment under EPAs or GSP.

(2) Methods of verification
As for the verification with the importer, Customs sends a written request for information on the originating status of the imported good(s). Customs determines whether the good qualifies as originating on the basis of the information and documents provided by the importer.
If the originating status of the good is not confirmed through the verification with the importer, Customs may carry out verification with the exporter or producer. Customs sends a written request for information to the exporter or producer, or conducts a verification visit to the premises (e.g. factories or offices) of the exporter or producer.
If Customs cannot confirm the originating status of the good through the above process, preferential tariff treatment would be denied. Furthermore, depending on the cases, the good may be subject to an additional tax/penalties for underpayment of Customs duties.

(Download Files)
Form - REQUEST FOR INFORMATION ON THE ORIGIN OF GOODS
Japan Customs sends this form to request information regarding the originating status of the imported goods. This form may be sent to the exporter, producer or the competent authority of the exporting party of an EPA or a GSP beneficiary country, depending on the preferential duty rate claimed by the importer. The addressee of this form is requested to promptly fill out and send back the form to Japan Customs.

Reference
・Reminder for the users of Japan-EU EPA and Japan-UK EPA