Please describe in detail procedures for import/export and port related procedures, etc.

With regard to importing and exporting procedures, up to the present, while systems such as the Pre-Arrival Examination System and the Instant Import Permit Upon Arrival System have been in effect, procedures for importing, exporting and customs clearance have been further simplified and shortened in recent years. Main developments are shown as follows.

1. Introduction of a "Single-Window" system for import/export and port related procedures.
This system was introduced in July 2003 to enable single input and single transmission of administrative application for the relevant multiple agencies, by linking Nippon Automated Cargo Clearance System (NACCS), Port EDI System and Crew Landing Permit Support System etc. Further details can be obtained the website of Japan Customs.

2. Simplified Declaration System and Specified Export Declaration System
The Simplified Declaration System was introduced in March 2003 to enable an importer approved by the Chief of Customs prior to the importation, to receive imported goods designated as continuous imported goods before declaration under certain conditions. Furthermore, the Specified Export Declaration System was introduced in March 2006 to enable an exporter approved by the Chief of Customs prior to the exportation, to declare and obtain permission without passing exporting goods through the Hozei Area under certain conditions Further details can be obtained the website of Customs.

3. Measures for 24-hour Port Service
To realize with 24-hour port service, the customs clearance system with custom officers on duty was set up by the Ministry of Finance and Customs at customs offices of the principal ports in July 2003.,. Furthermore, at quarantine stations of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, contact counters are open beyond regular working hours. Open hours have been extended also at the main plant quarantine stations and animal quarantine stations.

4. FAL Convention came into effect.
The Convention on Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic, 1965(FAL) came into force in November 2005 regarding Japan, thereby the forms for clearance have been standardized to that of FAL simplifying and rationalizing clearance processes.

Customs (website): http://www.customs.go.jp/
Quarantine Station, Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (website): http://www.forth.go.jp/
Plant Quarantine Station, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (website): http://www.pps.go.jp/
Animal Quarantine Station, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (website): http://www.maff-aqs.go.jp/