Japan
The USDA has Agricultural Trade Offices (ATO's) in both Tokyo and Osaka to provide assistance in marketing foods in Japan, http://www.atojapan.org/intro.html.
The ATO has developed the following market reports and guides:
- U.S. Food Exporter's Guide to Japan
This guide is the best single source of information on the world's largest overseas market for imported consumer food products. For U.S. companies seeking to learn how to do business in Japan, it provides practical tips and information on local business practices, consumer preferences and trends, food standards and regulations, import and inspection procedures, distribution structure and, best high-value product prospects. - Food Processing Sector Study
A detailed look at Japan's food processing sector, identifying key trends and leading Japanese manufacturers. - Retail Food Sector Report
A comprehensive report on the Japanese retail food market detailing the structure, size, and areas of growth of this sector, its key industry players and prospects for various U.S. products. - Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) Report
The FAIRS report is a comprehensive guide to Japan's food and beverage regulations, standards and requirements for importation. - Procedures for Importing Foods and Related Products into Japan under the Food Sanitation Law
JETRO report summarizing specific technical import procedures for food products. - Red Meat Export Requirements for Japan
USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) summary of red meat export requirements for Japan. - The National Organic Program - Export Arrangement with Japan
USDA Agricultural Marketing Service useful information on National Organic Program and Export arrangement with Japan. - U.S. Organic Export to Japan: Export Procedures
Regulations on sending foods to Japan
The Japanese import regulations require testing of foods entering Japan. You can become certified for ongoing imports to Japan with the JAS mark (Japan Agricultural Standards) that can be certified by the Oregeon Department of Agriculture.
The Oregon Department of Agriculture's Export Service Center (ESC) assists companies with pre-export analysis and certification of food products. The ESC is a certified customs laboratory for U.S. foods shipped to Japan, Korea and Taiwan. In addition, seventeen other countries accept ESC analytical results in lieu of testing at the destination port.