Which items need to pay customs duties when shopping in Japan?

Japan is a shopper’s paradise, and travel shopping is the yearning of many tourists. However, you need to know which products will be subject to tariffs when shopping in Japan. Tariffs, simply put, are taxes and fees levied by the government on importers when importing goods in order to protect domestic industries. While enjoying the fun of shopping, you need to pay special attention to the following points:

1. Cosmetics and health products: Most exported goods will indicate whether tariffs are involved on the packaging, so be sure to pay attention when purchasing. If you're unsure about a particular brand or type of product, remember to ask a store associate.

2. Clothing and shoes: When your total single purchase exceeds 50,000 yen (approximately US$400), you will face an 8% consumption tax and a 2.2% tariff. Therefore, it is necessary to control the shopping budget and avoid exceeding the limit.

3. Watches, jewelry and department store products: Similarly, when a single purchase exceeds 50,000 yen, in addition to consumption tax, an additional 2.2% is required for items with a unit price of more than 200,000 yen (approximately US$1,600). of tariffs.

If your shopping involves customs duties, it is best to go to the airport or customs to complete the declaration procedures before leaving Japan. Some stores also provide joint declaration services to facilitate departure. In order to simplify the procedure, it is recommended to consult the store clerk before purchasing, check the product label, or choose a large specialty store, which will usually follow the regulations to avoid missed payment of customs duties.

In short, there are specific regulations for goods that are subject to tariffs when shopping in Japan. By understanding them in advance and planning appropriately, you can better enjoy the shopping experience while avoiding unnecessary tax burdens.