EN
©2001-2026 Atumi & Sakai
This newsletter is primarily addressed to overseas businesses and foreign investment funds considering entry into, or investment in, Japan’s seishu (sake) manufacturing industry. Entry structures vary - from acquiring an existing sake brewery through an acquisition, to establishing a new brewery which is established exclusively for export - but in all cases, an understanding of Japan’s unique regulatory framework is indispensable.
This newsletter is published in two parts. Part I begins with outlining the current state of the sake market and industry, as well as covering the basic structure of the licensing system, focusing on the sake manufacturing license. Part II will address institutional factors which have a direct bearing on investment decisions (geographical indications and liquor tax), together with operational regulatory requirements following acquisition (labeling and hazard analysis and critical control point ("HACCP") compliance), entry structure options, and investment restrictions under the Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Act ("FEFTA").
Please click here for the full article.
[Contents]
1. The Current State of the Sake Industry
1-1. Export Growth Trend and Market Internationalization
1-2. The Domestic Market Structure and the Value of Entry Barriers Created by "Bedrock Regulation"
1-3. Rising Sake Rice Prices — A Cost Risk Affecting Investment Decisions
2. The Basic Structure of the Alcoholic Beverage Licensing System
2-1. Overview of the Licensing System and License Categories
2-2. Entry Restrictions on Sake Manufacturing Licenses
2-3. Requirements for License Acquisition by Foreign Nationals and Foreign Corporations
2-4. Retail/Wholesale Business Licenses — Options for Non-Manufacturing Operations
[Related Links]
Japanese:
「日本酒市場の規制環境と参入スキーム（前編）」：食料・農林水産法務プラクティスチーム
「日本酒市場の規制環境と参入スキーム（後編）」：食料・農林水産法務プラクティスチーム
Simplfied Chinese： 《日本清酒市场的监管环境与市场准入模式（上篇）》
《日本清酒市场的监管环境与市场准入模式（下篇）》
Newsletter