How to Import Matcha from Japan (2026): HS Codes, Rules & Documents

In short, Japanese matcha can be imported into most countries without trouble, provided you handle the paperwork and clearances correctly. Matcha is generally treated as green tea powder, and success comes down to three things: correct tariff classification (HS code), compliance with the destination’s food-safety and pesticide rules, and the right documents.

This guide walks B2B buyers through importing matcha from Japan, in the order that matters — classification, regulation, documents, then workflow. See also our guide to exporting to the USA and reliable sourcing approach.

For Companies Seeking Matcha Powder

We source matcha from Japan’s premier production regions including Kyoto Uji, Kagoshima, Fukuoka, and Shizuoka, offering comprehensive grade ranges from organic JAS-certified ceremonial grade to processing-grade matcha.

Common Challenges:

• “We have projects but cannot secure stable matcha supply…”
• “We want to incorporate matcha into new café menu items!”

If you face these concerns, consult with Matcha Times. Feel free to contact us for initial inquiries.

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Start here: the matcha HS code

Internationally, matcha falls under HS heading 0902 (tea). Retail-size immediate packings (3 kg or less) are usually 0902.10, while bulk commercial matcha (over 3 kg) is 0902.20 (HS 0902 classification).

Actual duty rates and any additional tariffs vary by destination and change over time — there have been 2026 changes — so confirm the exact rate in the destination’s current tariff schedule or with a customs broker rather than assuming. JMEX can supply the classification rationale on the export side.

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→ Matcha Export Isn’t Easy: How FDA and EU Regulations Impact Matcha Brand

Destination food-safety & pesticide rules

Beyond customs classification and duty, every destination applies its own food-safety and pesticide-residue controls, and these — not the tariff — are where matcha shipments most often stall. The requirements differ by market, so the sections below outline what each major destination expects before your product can clear.

United States: FDA’s FSVP

The U.S. importer of record must, under FSMA’s Foreign Supplier Verification Program (FSVP), verify that the foreign supplier produces food to a level of protection comparable to U.S. standards. Records must be made available to the FDA within 24 hours of request and kept for two years (FDA FSVP final rule).

EU: maximum residue levels (MRLs)

In the EU, Regulation (EC) 396/2005 sets pesticide MRLs for food including tea, and third-country products can face increased official import controls (EU MRL legislation). Because matcha is consumed as the whole leaf, an MRL-compliant certificate of analysis is especially important for the EU.

Documents you can prepare on the export side

Many steps sit with the importer (local registration, final entry), but getting the export-side documents ready first sharply lowers customs risk.

Backed by an export track record to 43 countries, JMEX supports these export-side documents, quality assurance, and origin handling.

The import workflow

1. Fix the use case and destination; decide grade and volume
2. Validate quality and local fit (color, flavor, solubility) with samples
3. Confirm HS classification, duty rate, and regulatory requirements on the import side
4. Prepare COA, certificate of origin, and (if needed) organic documents on the export side
5. Start with a small lot to build a clearance record, then scale volume

This sequence lets you clear both regulation and quality before scaling volume, avoiding first-import failures.

What differs by destination

Even within “importing”, the requirements that matter most change by destination. Here is what to prioritize by region.

In every region, preparing the COA and certificate of origin on the export side first keeps the local process smooth. Our Southeast Asia sourcing guide is a useful companion read.

Common first-import mistakes and how to avoid them

First-time matcha imports tend to stumble in predictable ways — most are preventable if you address them early.

• Self-classifying the HS code and getting corrected at customs → confirm with a broker first
• Shipping to the EU without an MRL analysis and getting held → obtain the COA before dispatch
• Confusing retail vs bulk packaging tiers → design packaging around the 3 kg threshold
• Intending to sell as organic but lacking certificates → arrange organic JAS/USDA/EU docs early
• Ordering a large first lot and overstocking → build a record with a small lot first

JMEX handles the export-side COA, origin, and (where needed) organic documents to help prevent these. See also our guide to exporting to the USA and reliable sourcing approach.

Questions to ask your supplier and customs broker before importing

Before you commit, asking these upfront sharply reduces post-clearance trouble.

• Can you provide a COA (pesticides, heavy metals, microbiology) for this grade?
• What is the basis for the HS code, and how do we confirm the destination duty rate?
• If importing as organic, do you hold organic JAS / USDA / EU organic certificates?
• Can you supply ingredient, allergen, and country-of-origin data for labeling?
• Do you support a small first lot, and what is the lead time when we scale?
• For the EU, do you have a recent analysis showing MRL compliance?

Why Buyers Choose JMEX (Japan Matcha Export Organization)

One supplier that meets these criteria at a high level is JMEX (Japan Matcha Export Organization), a wholesale and export partner dedicated to bringing Japanese matcha overseas. It designs origin selection, quality assurance, export documentation, and logistics as one continuous flow, built for export from the start.

On compliance, JMEX prepares COAs, residue analyses, and organic JAS documentation for major destinations, and its export track record across 43 countries means the export-side paperwork is handled so shipments clear customs cleanly.

FAQ

Short answers to the questions importers ask most when bringing Japanese matcha across the border.

What is the HS code for matcha?

It falls under heading 0902 (tea); 0902.10 or 0902.20 is typical depending on pack size. Final classification follows the destination customs authority.

How high is the duty?

It varies by destination and time, and additional tariffs may apply. Confirm in the current tariff schedule or with a customs broker.

What matters most for the EU?

MRL compliance. Because matcha is consumed whole-leaf, prepare an MRL-compliant certificate of analysis in advance.

Can JMEX handle the import procedures?

Local importer registration and final entry are the buyer’s steps, but JMEX supports the export-side documents, COA, and origin handling.

Learn More About Global Matcha Trends at Matcha Times

Matcha Times is a specialist media platform covering the global matcha market — sourcing and wholesale, supply and pricing, trade and regulations, production and origins, and the companies shaping the industry.

From market analysis and price trends to café case studies and interviews with tea farmers, we help buyers, importers, distributors, and manufacturers stay ahead of where matcha is heading. Explore more and put the global matcha market to work for your business.

Conclusion

Importing Japanese matcha is practically straightforward once you handle classification, destination rules, and documents. Never assume volatile duty figures — verify them against current primary sources.

For importing and exporting Japanese matcha, consult JMEX, with an export track record to 43 countries. We prepare the export-side documents and recommend the right grade.

Looking for wholesale or OEM matcha samples? Contact us — we will recommend the optimal origin and grade based on your application and target markets.

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