How to Start Importing Japanese Food – A Guide for First-Time Buyers

1. Introduction

The global popularity of Japanese cuisine continues to rise.
Beyond well-known dishes like sushi and ramen, Japanese ingredients are now being used in high-end restaurants across Europe and North America, as well as in local cuisine in various countries. Once considered premium and rare, Japanese ingredients are increasingly becoming mainstream in international food culture. As a result, importers, restaurants, and retailers around the world are paying close attention to sourcing quality Japanese food products.

This guide is designed to help first-time importers understand the basic steps and key points involved in starting a Japanese food import business.

2. Basic Steps to Start Importing Japanese Food

2-1. First, Contact TSUJISHO
Building trust is essential when dealing with international trade.
At TSUJISHO, we have extensive experience in exporting Japanese food products and provide friendly, professional support for first-time buyers.
Feel free to reach out via our contact form, email, or sns — we are happy to help.

2-2. Get a Product List and Pricing from TSUJISHO
We will provide you with a list of available products and reference pricing based on your desired categories (e.g. seafood, meat, processed foods) and logistics preferences (air or sea freight). Custom proposals can also be prepared based on your business needs.

2-3. Understand Import Regulations
Each country has different import regulations concerning food safety, customs clearance, and required documentation (such as certificates of origin or health certificates).
TSUJISHO has experience exporting to a wide range of countries and can help ensure compliance by proposing suitable products and assisting with necessary documentation.

2-4. Online or On-Site Meetings
We offer online or in-person meetings to discuss product details, logistics, and potential sales strategies.
If needed, product samples can also be arranged.
For first-time business partners, our team may travel to your country for face-to-face meetings to build mutual understanding and trust.

2-5. Contract Agreement and Shipping Arrangement
Once trade terms (Incoterms), payment methods (e.g. T/T), and logistics details (refrigerated or frozen transport, etc.) are finalized, we move on to contract signing and arrange international shipping accordingly.

2-6. Product Arrival, Customs Clearance & Start of Sales
After your goods arrive, they will go through customs clearance, and you can begin selling and distributing the products in your local market.
If needed, we can also assist with marketing support.

We understand that potential risks in international shipping can be a concern.
At TSUJISHO, we take pride in responding to any issues sincerely, transparently, and promptly.

3. What TSUJISHO Offers

TSUJISHO provides full support from product selection to customs procedures and international logistics — a true one-stop service.
Even first-time importers can feel confident with our professional assistance, including:

• A wide range of high-quality Japanese food products
• Flexible orders available — small quantities and a wide variety of products (starting from 1 pallet)
• Multilingual support (English, Japanese, etc.)

4. Contact Us – Take the First Step

Feel free to get in touch — whether you’re looking for specific Japanese food products or wondering if importing is possible in your region.
We welcome all inquiries, including those who are just starting out.

Use the contact form or email us directly, and our experienced team will provide detailed guidance tailored to your needs.

At TSUJISHO, we promise step-by-step support with honesty and speed to help you confidently start your Japanese food import business.