Classification
Product TypeIngredient
Product FormGreen (unroasted), decaffeinated
Industry PositionFood ingredient / processing input (roasting and beverage manufacturing)
Market
Decaffeinated green coffee beans are an import-dependent input in Japan, used by domestic roasters and beverage manufacturers to supply decaf retail coffee and coffee beverages. Market access is shaped less by tariffs (Japan’s tariff schedule lists HS 0901.12-000 as duty-free) and more by compliance with food import controls under the Food Sanitation Act and plant quarantine procedures for green coffee beans. Importers should expect document examination at MHLW quarantine stations and plant quarantine inspection by MAFF Plant Protection Stations. Availability is generally year-round because green beans are storable and supplied through continuous maritime import programs.
Market RoleNet importer and domestic processing/consumption market
Domestic RoleImported decaffeinated green coffee beans are used as inputs for domestic roasting and coffee/beverage manufacturing, including decaf product lines.
SeasonalityYear-round availability via imports; timing is influenced by origin harvest calendars and shipping schedules rather than Japan-side seasonality.
Risks
Food Safety HighNon-compliance with Japan’s Food Sanitation Act controls—especially pesticide residue exceedances under the positive list system or inadequate import-notification documentation—can lead to import rejection and measures such as disposal or shipping back.Pre-screen suppliers with residue testing aligned to Japan MRL requirements, maintain complete import-notification dossiers (manufacturer, processing method, additives if any), and use importer checklists aligned to MHLW quarantine-station review criteria.
Plant Quarantine MediumGreen coffee beans are subject to MAFF plant quarantine import inspection; detections of quarantine pests, soil, or other non-compliance can cause delays and remedial measures at the border.Implement origin-side cleaning/sieving and strict foreign-matter controls, keep consignments free of soil/extraneous material, and confirm whether phytosanitary certificate attachment is exempt for the specific form/shipment while preparing for mandatory inspection.
Logistics MediumOcean freight disruptions (capacity tightness, port delays) can affect arrival timing and landed cost for bulk green coffee shipments into Japan.Use forward booking, maintain buffer inventory for decaf programs, and align shipment windows with domestic production plans to reduce stockout risk.
Documentation Gap LowMisclassification (e.g., failing to declare decaffeinated status) or inconsistent documentation across customs, plant quarantine, and food import-notification filings can trigger clearance delays.Align commercial invoices, product specs, and customs declarations to the Japan Customs statistical code and ensure consistent product description as 'not roasted, decaffeinated coffee' where applicable.
Sustainability- Responsible sourcing expectations for coffee may include sustainability certification or farm-level assurance programs (e.g., Rainforest Alliance coffee-related certification programs).
Labor & Social- Coffee is identified by the U.S. Department of Labor (ILAB) as a good associated with child labor and/or forced labor risks in some source countries; Japan-focused supply chains may face buyer and stakeholder scrutiny requiring supplier due diligence and traceability.
FAQ
What is Japan’s tariff rate for importing decaffeinated green coffee beans (HS 0901.12-000)?Japan’s tariff schedule lists HS 0901.12-000 (coffee, not roasted, decaffeinated) at a general tariff rate of Free (no duty).
Do green coffee beans need a phytosanitary certificate to enter Japan?MAFF indicates that green coffee beans are subject to plant quarantine import inspection, but the attachment of a phytosanitary certificate has been exempt for specified low-risk plant products (including coffee green beans) since August 5, 2020; inspection is still required.
What is the key MHLW requirement to import coffee beans for sale or business use in Japan?Importers must submit a notification for each importation to an MHLW Quarantine Station under Article 27 of the Food Sanitation Act; the quarantine station conducts document examination and may require inspections, and non-compliant cargo cannot be imported for sale or business use.