Browse Data and Analysis

The Consumer Affairs Agency (CAA) of Japan proposed revisions of Japan’s maximum residue levels for four agricultural chemicals (Butachlor, Etofenprox, Spinetoram, and Prallethrin) for various agricultural commodities.

On April 1, 2025, Japan formally lifted the mandatory aflatoxin testing requirements on U.S. almonds compliant with the new almond export protocol.

This report highlights the harmonization of specific liquor taxes on alcoholic beverages that took effect on Oct.1st, 2024. U.S. exports of these products are not directly affected, but exporters should be aware of these changes.

Japan's vegetable oil and protein feed markets are mature and stable. While surging commodity prices and the shipping crisis impacted Japan's oilseed and product imports in the past, the situation has normalized.

The Consumer Affairs Agency (CAA) of the Government of Japan (GOJ) convened a meeting of the “Food Sanitation Standards Council, Newly Developed Food Investigation Committee” on February 21, 2025, to discuss the establishment of food safety standards for cell cultured foods.

In 2024, Japan's food processing sector had a 3.9 percent increase in the value of food produced, totaling $174 billion. Production increases occurred in dairy, alcoholic beverages, tea, coffee and cocoa, and health foods.

This report highlights trends and recent statistics for U.S. origin wine imported into Japan, consumption trends, and opportunities for U.S. exporters.

From August 5, 2023, Japan will begin to strictly require phytosanitary certificates (PC) for a broad range of previously exempted agricultural imports. This report aims to provide further details of Japan’s new PC requirements.

In 2022, the total value of all retail food and beverage (F&B) sales in Japan totaled $327 billion. As the market continues to transition to a post-COVID-19 environment, retailers and food and beverage manufacturers have implemented broad price increases on most food and beverage products, due to high inflation.

Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) proposed revisions to Japan’s maximum residue levels for 8 agricultural chemicals (Dimethomorph, Fenamiphos, Fluxapyroxad, Prothioconazole, Clostebol, Cyphenothrin, Ormetoprim, Tribromsalan) for various agricultural commodities.