What is Japan’s consumption tax?

The following domestic and import transactions, except for certain transactions deemed non-taxable, are subject to consumption tax. As of 2021, the consumption tax rate is 10% in principal (inclusive of local consumption tax rate of 2.2%); a reduced tax rate of 8% (inclusive of local consumption tax rate of 1.76%) is applied to food and beverages, except for alcoholic drinks and dining out.

Overview of consumption tax

1.Domestic transactions: the transfer or rental/lease of assets or the provision of services as a business in Japan by an enterprise for consideration.

2.Import transactions: cargo retrieved from a bonded zone.

Financial transactions, capital transactions, and certain transactions in the areas of medical care, welfare and education are deemed non-taxable. Export transactions and export-like transactions such as international communications and international transport are exempt from consumption tax.