Exporting to Japan | Seafish

Exporting to Japan

This page provides guidance on how to export seafood products to Japan, including navigating the unique regulatory requirements for trade.



General guidance  

Requirements for exporting to the Japanese market include: 

  • Commercial invoice: A commercial invoice must be provided including the Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number, agreed international commerce terms, transaction value, product quantities, and detailed descriptions of the goods.
  • Packing list: Providing an itemised breakdown of the contents, including weights, dimensions, and packaging details.
  • Bill of lading, consignment note, or airway bill: Acts as proof of shipment and provides details about the transportation method and consignment.
  • Illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing documentation: Includes a validated catch certificate (CC) to confirm compliance with the illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing regulations. catch certificates must specify the fishing vessel, species, volume, and fishing zones.
  • Certificates of origin: Where applicable, these documents establish the origin of the goods.
  • Customs declaration: all information about your shipment and the documentation will be evidenced on your export declaration. 

Import notification process for Japanese authorities 

UK seafood exporters do not need to register their establishments with Japanese authorities before exporting.  

  • The Japanese importer must submit an import notification to Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) for each shipment from the UK.
  • Import notifications require details about the product, processing methods, and safety measures taken during production. Exporters should work closely with their Japanese import partners to ensure all required information is provided.  
  • More details on Japan’s import procedures can be found on the MHLW website.

Export health certificate (EHC) requirements 

All seafood exports to Japan must be accompanied by an export health certificate (EHC).  

  • EHCs are issued by the UK Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) and must confirm that products meet Japanese food safety and import requirements.
  • Japan enforces strict microbiological, chemical residue, and heavy metal limits for seafood imports. Exporters should verify that their products comply with Japan’s food safety standards before shipment. 
  • In some cases, Japanese importers may request additional testing or certification based on specific product types.  

Trade agreements with Japan 

UK seafood exporters can benefit from tariff reductions or exemptions, enhancing their competitiveness in the Japanese market. 

  • The UK-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) allows preferential tariffs on eligible seafood products meeting the Rules of Origin requirements. 
  • Japan and the UK are members of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) which improves market access for UK seafood exporters. 

Advice and support from Seafish 

Our regulation experts can provide bespoke advice and support to your business. They have been responding to issues raised with us by businesses and individuals throughout the seafood supply chain and are working with government, local authorities and industry groups to find solutions. 

For further assistance email regulation@seafish.co.uk.

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