In today's global market, understanding and utilizing Free Trade Agreements (FTA) and Economic Partnership Agreements (EPA) is crucial for businesses importing goods into Japan. These agreements, which have historically required a Certificate of Origin (COO), are evolving. Recent FTAs and EPAs now allow for a more streamlined process through self-declaration, making it easier for businesses to benefit from preferential tariff treatment.

 

Key Agreements Allowing Self-Declaration

Several significant FTAs and EPAs now support the self-declaration system, including:

  • Japan - EU EPA: A significant partnership bridging Japan and the European Union.
  • Japan - UK CEPA: Tailoring trade benefits specifically between Japan and the United Kingdom.
  • RCEP (Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership): A comprehensive agreement among Asian and Pacific nations.
  • TPP11 - CPTPP (Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership): A landmark agreement among Pacific Rim countries.
  • Japan - US Trade Agreement: Fostering closer economic ties between these two major economies.
  • Japan - Australia EPA: Strengthening the economic relationship between Japan and Australia.

 

How SK Advisory Can Assist You

At SK Advisory Inc., we specialize in guiding clients through the application of FTA/EPA preferential tariff treatments. Our services are designed to simplify the process and reduce customs duties as mandated by Japan Customs.

Our Process:

  • Client’s Responsibility: Provide us with detailed information about your imported products.
  • Our Role at SK Advisory Inc: We lead the preparation of all necessary documentation for your FTA/EPA application, ensuring compliance and accuracy.

 

By partnering with SK Advisory, you entrust your FTA/EPA applications to seasoned customs professionals. This not only ensures peace of mind but also enhances your trade compliance and operational efficiency.

 

Clients SK ADVISORY
1. HS Code Confirmation for Import Products
  • Provide product information.
  • Verify the appropriate HS Code.
2. Duty Rate Confirmation -
  • Check the standard duty rate.
  • Compare with EPA/FTA preferential duty rates.
3. Rule of Origin Confirmation -
  • Confirm the Product Specific Rule (PSR).
4. Documentation for FTA/EPA Preferential Tariff Treatment [Overview]

  • Bills of Materials for finished goods.
  • Manufacturing flow and assembly documents.

[CTC - Change in Tariff Classification]

  • Bill of material, parts information, and purchase price (if De minimis applies).

[VA - Value Added]

  • FOB price for exported goods.
  • Purchase price for used materials.

[Supplier Declaration]

  • Communication with suppliers
 [Overiew]

  • Planning of best approach

[CTC - Change in Tariff Classification]

  • Planning for grouping of materials.
  • HS classification for used materials.
  • Evidence documentation (HS Comparison Sheets).

[VA - Value Added]

  • Verify sales price for import goods and purchase price for materials.
  • Evidence documentation (Calculation Sheets).

[Supplier Declaration]

  • Preparation of Supplier Declaration format and explanatory notes for submission to Manufacturer or Exporter.
5. Application of FTA/EPA Preferential Tariff Treatment
  • Send prepared application documents to Forwarder or Customs Broker in Japan.
  • Support in responding to inquiries from Japan Customs on behalf of the client.

 

 

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