Japan ACP - Attorney for Customs Procedures (ACP) professional company, supporting non-resident companies to become Japan IOR - Japan Importer of Record
Customs and International Trade Consulting, FTA/EPA Services
Customs and International Trade Consulting, FTA/EPA Services
(1) Customs and International Trade Consulting Services
Customs duty is a tax levied on imported goods at the time of importation, and it is considered as part of the cost of sales. However, the actual amount of customs duty incurred is often overlooked and not properly understood, as it is included in the cost of sales and cannot be readily identified from financial statements.
Many companies delegate customs duties to their procurement staff without establishing a comprehensive understanding of customs costs throughout the organization. We believe that there is significant room for companies to enhance their competitiveness by effectively managing customs duties. Our dedicated team is committed to assisting you in visualizing your customs costs and establishing an appropriate compliance system within your company.
Our services
Customs Consultation Service
We provide comprehensive consultation services on all matters related to customs duties.
Import Compliance Support
We offer support for overall import compliance, including risk assessment services.
We assist in preparing the necessary documentation for customs clearance, ensuring compliance with import regulations, customs valuation, and HS codes.
Visualization of Customs Costs
We help you assess the payment status of customs costs, analyze customs laws and regulations from various perspectives (HS, Customs Valuation, Origin, etc.), and propose appropriate measures to achieve cost reduction and ensure compliance.
In principle, Japan Customs does not permit a foreign entity to act as the Importer of Record (IOR) or Exporter of Record (EOR). However, foreign entity can overcome this restriction and act as a non-resident IOR or EOR by appointing an Attorney for Customs Procedures (ACP) who can handle the customs procedures on your behalf. At SK Advisory, we have extensive experiences in supporting numerous non-resident customers by acting as their ACP.
HS classification
Our team supports you in classifying HS codes in accordance with the laws and regulations of each destination country. Proper HS code classification is crucial as it affects tariff rates and rules of origin.
First, we analyze the facts/risk assessment related to the payment of transfer pricing adjustments and confirm the necessity of filing an amended customs declaration. If we decide to file an amended return, we will consult with customs to confirm the most optimal way to proceed with the procedure.
In addition, if transfer pricing adjustments will continue to occur in the future, we will apply for a blanket declaration and incorporate the amount of transfer pricing adjustments into the import declarations that are made on a regular basis, thereby eliminating the need for future amendment filings.
Customs Valuation
We assist in accurately calculating the customs value of imported goods, ensuring compliance with customs-related laws and regulations. The invoice price may not always reflect the customs value, and our services help establish the appropriate customs value.
Customs Audit Assistance
We provide guidance and develop strategies for Japan Customs audits, facilitating effective communication and negotiation with customs and trade authorities.
Our research services cover customs/import duty rates (tariff rates) for Japan and other countries worldwide.
Utilizing trade statistics databases, we can provide insights into the volume and value of imports and exports for specific items (HS codes) in target countries.
To enjoy preferential tariff rates under FTA/EPA agreements, companies need to establish a compliance system that adheres to the rules of each agreement and involves document preparation related to the country of origin. However, due to the time and cost required to understand and manage these rules, many companies have chosen not to utilize FTAs/EPAs.
While it is understandable for companies to make a business decision based on the economic rationale of tariff benefits and the cost of origin control, the reality is that many companies struggle to accurately assess the economic viability of such decisions.
Our team is here to assist you in making informed go/no-go decisions regarding the application of FTAs/EPAs. If you decide to proceed, we will work closely with you to maximize tariff benefits and introduce management systems and methods that minimize administrative costs.
Our services
FTA/EPA Consultation Service
We provide comprehensive answers to any questions regarding FTAs/EPAs, even for minor queries.
Impact Study on Customs Cost
We analyze your current supply chain, assessing the possibility of utilizing FTAs in existing transactions.
We research and propose the potential utilization of new FTAs due to changes in commercial logistics and quantify the impact of cost reductions resulting from such changes.
Support Preparation of Certificate of Origin
We assist in the preparation of certificates of origin and related documents required by each FTA.
We ensure compliance with the rules set forth in each agreement and provide guidance on documenting product origin.
Our team provides assistance, guidance, and strategies for Japan Customs audits, facilitating effective communication and negotiation with customs and trade authorities.
FTA/EPA Origin Compliance Review
We review your current practices from an Origin Compliance perspective to prepare for FTA verification audits.
Our "Mock audit" service helps ensure readiness for official audits.
Supplier Training
We offer training programs for your suppliers, enabling them to accurately submit Certificates of Originating Materials.
FTA/EPA Cost-Saving Review
By reviewing your current business model and supply chain, we measure potential cost savings achievable through the utilization of existing FTAs.
