What do I need to list products on Amazon Japan?
📋 Direct Answer
[Figure withdrawn] Check the official page: https://vat-one-stop-shop.ec.europa.eu/one-stop-shop_en. Public compilation, not tax advice.
Check the official pageAmazon Japan requirements: () Japanese JCT registration (if selling taxable goods), (2) Product safety certifications (PSE for electronics, PSC for cosmetics, etc.), (3) Japanese language product descriptions, (4) Japanese address for returns (can use Amazon FBA), (5) JIS compliance marks where applicable. Amazon Japan has strict product safety requirements. Cost: varies. Timeline: 2-8 weeks. (Reference values: , 00) (¥; ¥00)
📝 Step-by-Step Guide
Prerequisites
- •Amazon Japan seller account
- •Products compliant with Japanese regulations
- 1
Register as Amazon Japan seller
Create an Amazon.co.jp seller account. You can use your existing Amazon credentials or create a new account. Accepts international bank accounts.
- 2
Prepare Japanese product compliance
Japan requires: PSE mark for electrical products, PSC for specific consumer goods, Japanese-language labels, and JCT (Japanese Consumption Tax) registration if selling B2C.
- 3
Set up Japanese-language listings
Create Japanese-language product titles, descriptions, and bullet points. Consider hiring a native Japanese copywriter for accuracy.
- 4
Configure shipping and fulfillment
Options: Amazon FBA Japan (recommended for Prime eligibility), third-party fulfillment, or direct shipping. Understand Japan's import customs and duties.
💰 Cost Breakdown
| Item | Cost | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon (FBA + VAT collection) | 15-30% referral + FBA fees | one-time |
| TikTok Shop (DDP shipping + tax) | 5-8% commission + shipping | one-time |
| Shopify (independent store + tax apps) | $29-299/month + 2.9% payment processing | monthly |
| JCT Registration | ¥50,000-200,000 | one-time |
| Product Safety Certifications | Varies | one-time |
| Japanese Language Listing | Free-$500 | one-time |
| Total Estimate | $50522 – $200837 | Per JP filing |
Japan has specific tax requirements for Amazon sellers
Non-compliance can lead to listing removal and penalties
🛡️ Prevention Steps
- ✓Register for Japanese consumption tax if required
- ✓Understand JCT invoice requirements
Item by Item
If applicableJCT Registration¥50,000-200,0002-3 months
- 1Register for JCT if taxable sales >¥10M
- 2Apply to NTA (National Tax Agency)
- 3Receive JCT number for invoicing
RequiredProduct Safety CertificationsVaries1-3 months
- 1Electronics: PSE mark required
- 2Cosmetics: PSC notification
- 3Food: Food Sanitation Act compliance
- 4Upload certificates to Amazon
RequiredJapanese Language ListingFree-$5001-2 weeks
- 1Product titles and descriptions must be in Japanese
- 2Use Amazon Translate or hire translator
- 3Customer support in Japanese preferred
Comparison
| Amazon (FBA + VAT collection) | TikTok Shop (DDP shipping + tax) | Shopify (independent store + tax apps) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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| Best For | Sellers wanting hands-off logistics with built-in tax compliance | Sellers targeting younger demographics with visually appealing products | Brand-focused sellers with marketing budget and tax infrastructure |
| Est. Cost | 15-30% referral + FBA fees | 5-8% commission + shipping | $29-299/month + 2.9% payment processing |
Compliance Checker
After comparing options, check your own case in the free tool.
Open Compliance Checker →Common Mistakes
❌ Underestimating JCT (Japanese Consumption Tax) registration requirements
💥 Consequence: Since October 2023, Amazon Japan requires qualified invoice system compliance. Without JCT registration, you cannot issue qualified invoices and lose B2B customers.
✅ Fix: Register for JCT if annual sales exceed ¥10 million (or voluntarily for B2B). Use Amazon Invoice Manager.
❌ Not preparing for PSE (Product Safety Electrical) marking
💥 Consequence: Electrical products sold in Japan require PSE marking. Non-compliant products can be seized by customs.
✅ Fix: Obtain PSE certification through accredited testing lab before shipping to Japan.
Seller Paths
Amazon Japan FBA Path
- 1. Register Amazon Japan seller account
- 2. Apply for JCT registration (if required)
- 3. Obtain PSE marking for electrical products
- 4. Ship inventory to Amazon Japan FBA
- 5. Set up Japanese language product listings
Next Steps
Get a free compliance assessment
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Related Questions
Sources
- • Amazon Japan Seller Central
- • Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry
Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Consult a professional for your specific situation.