Compliance · PSE + MIC + JCT
Japan
PSE for electrical appliances, MIC/Giteki for radio, Japanese labelling, 10% consumption tax and the ¥10,000 exemption limits.
Key facts
| Currency | JPY |
|---|---|
| Electrical | PSE mark for specified electrical appliances |
| Radio | MIC/Giteki certification for radio equipment |
| Labelling | Japanese importer, contents and warnings |
| Consumption tax | 10%; JCT registration above the threshold |
| Customs | ¥10,000 exemption, with category exclusions |
| Last verified | 2026-10-17 |
Certification is per model and per category
Japan's PSE system distinguishes specified and non-specified electrical appliances, with different conformity routes and marks. Radio equipment needs MIC/Giteki certification. Both are product- and model-specific, so a new variant can trigger a new filing even when the change looks cosmetic.
The importer or seller named on the label is the party that holds the obligation. A foreign seller usually works through a Japanese importer or a fulfilment arrangement, and the label has to reflect that structure.
The ¥10,000 exemption is not universal
Goods with a total customs value of ¥10,000 or less are generally exempt from duty and consumption tax, but the exemption applies to the consignment as a whole and excludes categories such as leather shoes and some knitted apparel. A low-value parcel in an excluded category is dutiable from the first yen.
Handling fees can exceed the tax on a small parcel. Include the carrier charge in the landed cost, or the unit economics will look better than the bank account.
Frequently asked questions
Does PSE apply to every electrical product?
It applies to the categories designated under the Electrical Appliances and Materials Safety Act. Check whether the product is specified or non-specified, because the conformity route differs.
Can I sell in Japan without a local entity?
A foreign seller can sell, but the importer and the label need a responsible Japanese party, and tax registration can require a representative. Distribution through a Japanese importer is the usual route.
Is the ¥10,000 threshold per item?
It applies to the total customs value of the consignment. Several items below the line individually can push the shipment above it.
Ask a compliance question
Free first answer by email. Tell us the destination, the product and the channel — we will point you to the rule and the official source. No obligation, no sales sequence.