Corporate Information

The Japan Tariff Association was established in October 1949 as the “Japan Tariff Association Foundation,” with the aim of actively cooperating in the development of Japan’s customs policies and tariff system, and contributing to the smooth and proper administration of customs operations.

Since its founding, the Association has undertaken a wide range of activities. These include making proposals and recommendations for the improvement of tariff policies and their implementation; conducting research, studies, and public awareness initiatives related to tariffs and trade; providing timely and accurate information on trade trends; publishing journals and books that feature policies on customs administration, relevant laws, regulations, and commentaries; and organizing seminars and briefings on customs operations and procedures.

Over the years, Japan’s economy and trade have grown and expanded significantly, while the surrounding environment has also undergone major changes in recent years. In response, the Association has made every effort to serve as a vital link between government and the private sector, advancing activities in line with the times and contributing to the development of Japan’s economy and trade. In recognition of these steady efforts, the Association was officially authorized by the Prime Minister in April 2011 and launched anew as the “Japan Tariff Association, a Public Interest Incorporated Foundation.”

Today, with more than 4,000 members nationwide, the Association will continue to vigorously promote its activities in unity between its headquarters and branches, working toward the further advancement of Japan’s economy through the promotion of trade. We are deeply grateful for the generous support that has enabled us to take this new step as a Public Interest Incorporated Foundation, and we remain committed to meeting the expectations of our members and the wider public. We sincerely ask for your continued guidance and support.

Since the resumption of private trade, the development of Japan’s foreign trade has been truly remarkable, and it is no exaggeration to say that the revival of the national economy depends entirely upon it.

In response to this situation, it is essential to actively cooperate with the government in the establishment of customs policies and the tariff system, while also contributing to the smooth and proper administration of customs operations. These operations include the inspection and licensing of import and export cargo, the enforcement against the increasing incidence of smuggling, and the management of bonded warehouses and bonded factories, which serve as measures to promote intermediary trade and processing trade, and which in recent years have grown in importance.

At the same time, there is a need to collect accurate and detailed trade statistics, improve and organize them for the reference of traders and others, gather and disseminate information on trade conditions, promote awareness, and provide explanations of trade practices and procedures, thereby further encouraging the sound development of trade.

It is with this intent that the Japan Tariff Association has been newly established as a foundation.

October 1949
Japan Tariff Association (Incorporated Foundation)