Market guide / JP
How to import Korean cosmetics to Japan
Licensed local operators, notifications and Japanese ingredients.
Notification & local responsibility
Commercial cosmetic imports require the relevant licensed operator. Arrange the Japanese marketing authorisation holder and confirm the manufacturing/import setup and product notification or approval route with the competent authority before ordering. [1] [2]
Labels & language
MHLW guidance requires Japanese ingredient names. Have the local marketing authorisation holder review all mandatory label details, including its name and address, under the applicable law. [3] [4]
Ingredient checks
Use MHLW’s Standards for Cosmetics and current notices to check prohibited and restricted ingredients. Confirm whether the intended formula and claims put a product into the separate quasi-drug category. [5]
Duties & taxes
Use the official customs resource below as a starting point. Ask your customs broker to confirm the product classification, origin documents, customs value and applicable duties, taxes and fees for this shipment before you accept the quote. [6]
No duty rate is assumed in this guide. Include your receiving city and the importer of record in the quote request so destination costs can be discussed.
Categories needing extra care
- Food & supplements
Send these as a separate product list for classification, ingredient, label and permit review. This cosmetics guide does not determine their import requirements.
- Aerosols & perfume by air
Flag these products before choosing air shipping. Request a safety data sheet and a carrier acceptance review, including packaging and documentation, before confirming transport.
Ordering with VANVIOR
From Korea to your receiving address
Request a quote
Send the product names, sizes, quantities, destination and sales channel. Discuss any documents or label information your importer needs before confirming the order.
Confirm and prepay
Review the written quote with shipping listed separately. Accepted orders are paid in advance.
Purchase and check
VANVIOR purchases the agreed goods, checks counts, expiry dates and condition, and shares photos before shipping.
Pack and ship from Incheon
Small orders can use express courier; larger orders can use air or sea freight from Incheon. The method and cost are confirmed in the quote. Import duties and destination taxes are paid by the buyer unless the quote states otherwise.
Sources
Official government and regulator resources. Check the linked page for amendments and product-specific details before ordering.
- Japan Customs — Commercial and personal cosmetic importsChecked
- MHLW — Licensing and notification proceduresChecked
- MHLW — Full ingredient labelling guidanceChecked
- MHLW — Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices ActChecked
- MHLW — Cosmetics and quasi-drugs, standards and noticesChecked
- Japan Customs — Current tariff schedulesChecked
Build your request
Sourcing for Japan?
Share your product list, quantities, destination and importer’s document requirements. We will discuss sourcing and a written quote for your order.