Export Your Products to Japan

With its refined culture and appreciation for quality products, Japan has seen its consumption of wine and spirits increase over the years. Even though Japan has a strong demand, entering the Japanese market requires a deep understanding of the regulations in place and local consumption preferences. Here's how to succeed in exporting your products to Japan.

Imports and Exports in Japan: What Regulations?

Exporting to Japan can be challenging due to the strict standards imposed by the government, especially regarding food products and alcoholic beverages. However, the establishment of a partnership agreement between the European Union and Japan in 2019 helped alleviate some customs duties.

In addition to this agreement, it is crucial to comply with product requirements and sanitary measures.

Regulatory Labeling: Alcoholic beverages imported into Japan must have a specific label indicating their alcohol content, net weight, components, origin, and a health warning. Additionally, this label must be translated into Japanese, which sometimes requires adaptations.
Licensing System: Exporting wine and spirits to Japan requires prior authorization. Typically, the local Japanese distributor handles these formalities. Therefore, it is crucial to select an experienced partner capable of efficiently managing this process.

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Wine and Spirits Consumption in Japan: Key Figures

Traditionally a country that consumes sake, beer, and rice spirits, Japan is showing a growing interest in wine and spirits. With more than 30% market share, France is the leading supplier of wine to Japan, followed by Italy, Chile, and the United States.

In major cities, wine is becoming increasingly popular. In 2022, wine imports to Japan accounted for approximately 300 million liters per year. The Japanese primarily consume red wine, which holds about 60% of the market share, followed by white and rosé wines.

To meet the growing demand from the Japanese, industry professionals prioritize quality wines that offer excellent value for money. Organic wines and Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) wines are becoming more recognized.

Export Your Products to Japan with a Gilbert & Gaillard

Marco Volpi - Manager - CANTINE VOLPI, Italy

"The Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge is recognized as prestigious, offering producers great visibility and the opportunity to be tasted throughout the year. The Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge medal is a way to promote wines and boost sales. We use the medals mainly in Japan and Sweden, where we have the most success."

Le marché japonnais est par excellence un marché qui nécessite un appui commercial pour se différencier en linéaire, et séduire le consommateur final. Le Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge jouit d’une grande renommée au pays du Soleil Levant et récompense nombre de références importées par les importateurs les plus importants du pays, comme Belluna, Royal of Japan, Cordon Vert, Mikuni...

Using Gilbert & Gaillard medals for wine exportation means leveraging an internationally recognized wine competition with a 35-year history. Want to register your wines? Log in to your winemaker space for access to our database of over 10,000 importers and distributors, including a specialized list of Japanese importers.

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