Your short guide to Importing Organic Matcha from Japan to the USA

So you're thinking about starting your own matcha brand or stocking up for your café? That's awesome! Matcha has been having such a moment lately, and there's never been a better time to get into the business.

But here's the thing: before you start dreaming about those Instagram-worthy matcha lattes, there's some not-so-glamorous paperwork you need to tackle. Trust us, we've been through this journey with countless clients, and we're here to make it way less intimidating than it sounds.

The Document Checklist You Actually Need for Organic Matcha

Let's cut through the confusion and talk about what you'll really need when importing organic matcha from Japan to the USA.

The JAS Organic Certificates (Your Golden Tickets)

When it comes to organic certification, Japan uses the JAS (Japanese Agricultural Standard) system. You'll need a few different JAS certificates, and yes, they're all important:

1. The Main Organic Certificate – This is your product's JAS seal of approval. Look for that official JAS mark.

2. Annual Review for the Factory/Producer – This demonstrates that the tea producer is keeping up with organic standards year after year.

3. Processing Facility Certificate – Because where and how your matcha gets processed matters just as much as how it's grown.

4. Foreign Grade Labeler Certificate – This one's specifically for products being exported and labeled for foreign markets.

Think of these JAS certificates as a family – they work together to prove your matcha is legitimately organic from field to package.

The Technical Stuff (But Still Super Important)

Beyond the organic certificates, you'll need:

Tea Component Analysis – This document breaks down what's actually in your matcha. It's not just about proving quality; it's about transparency with customs and the FDA.

Health Certificate – This certifies that your matcha is safe for consumption and meets health standards. Pretty straightforward, but essential.

FDA Prior Notice Filing: Don't Skip This Step!

Here's where many first-timers hit a snag. The FDA requires advance notice before any food product enters the US – and yes, that includes your beautiful organic matcha.

The Prior Notice filing tells the FDA what's coming, when it's arriving, and who's responsible for it. One key detail that catches people off guard? You might need the DUNS number for your factory or producer in Japan. It's basically a unique identifier for businesses, and having it ready can save you a lot of headaches at customs.

File your Prior Notice too late or with incomplete information, and your shipment could get held up at the border. Nobody wants their matcha sitting in a warehouse while they scramble to fix paperwork.

The Reality Check: Every Shipment Can Be Different

Here's something important we need to mention: depending on various factors – the port of entry, the specific customs officer, current FDA priorities, or even random inspections – you might be asked for additional documentation.

We've seen it happen. Sometimes customs want extra verification. Sometimes there's a new form to fill out. It's not meant to be difficult; it's just part of ensuring food safety.

Ready to Start Your Matcha Journey?

Whether you're launching a full-blown matcha brand, planning a pop-up café, or need bulk supply for your established business, having the right partner makes all the difference.

At Omakase Japan Wholesale Platform, we've navigated these waters many times. We work directly with certified organic matcha producers in Japan and can help guide you through the import process, including paperwork

Get in touch with us at info@omakasejp.com and let's talk about:

• Sourcing the perfect organic matcha for your brand

• Understanding the documentation process

• Securing a reliable bulk supply for your café or business

• Building a partnership that grows with you

Check out our Matcha Page 

We're here to help you skip the headaches and get straight to serving amazing matcha.

Disclaimer: The information in this guide is based on our experience shipping organic matcha from Japan to the United States. However, import requirements can vary based on numerous factors including specific products, ports of entry, and changing regulations. We strongly recommend conducting your own due diligence and consulting with customs brokers or import specialists for your specific situation. When in doubt, verify directly with US Customs and Border Protection or the FDA.