The introduction of the Japan-Australia Economic Partnership Agreement (JAEPA) has seen that Australian exporters of vegetables to Japan reaping the benefits.
The JAEPA entered into force on the 15 January 2015 with the second round of tariff reductions following on the 1st April 2015. These tariff eliminations, or reductions, have been the key instrument in exports of vegetables to Japan hitting an all time high.
Catherine Taylor, Austrade’s Senior Trade Commissioner based in Osaka, said most of the key vegetables Australia exports to Japan have immediate tariff reductions under JAEPA. Early indications are that the majority of Japanese importers are claiming reduced import duties, which helps make trade with Australia more attractive and our products more competitive,’ said Taylor.
‘For those vegetable exporters not yet accessing the preferential tariffs, keep in mind that preferential JAEPA tariffs are not applied automatically and you need to submit the correct certification of origin to start the process. Also, have a conversation with your importer and make sure they are doing their part to claim the reduced tariff at their end,’ she added.
The Japanese love their vegetables! According to Euromonitor data Japanese people eat about 96 kilograms of vegetables and 34 kilograms of fruits per person per year. Australia has some of the best produce around, making this agreement and match made in heaven.
‘JAEPA is Australia’s chance to develop new business for vegetable exports – don’t miss out of the benefits simply because of paperwork.” Catherine Taylor advises “Use it as an opportunity to have a conversation with your importer about not just claiming the reduced tariffs but about expanding business in this important export market. I am keen to see all Australian vegetable exports coming into Japan over the next few months utilise the JAEPA preferential tariffs where they apply.”
Want to know more on the JAEPA? You can send us an email or contact a team member in Japan by emailing enquiry.Japan@austrade.gov.au or jaepa@austrade.gov.au.
Do you have an export from Australia to be organised? Contact us today.
