Quick Answer: Japan’s December 2024 cannabis amendments introduced the world’s strictest THC limits (10ppm for oils, 1ppm for edibles, 0.1ppm for beverages), eliminating 90% of CBD products. However, pure cannabis-derived terpenes remain legal as they’re classified as aromatic compounds, not controlled substances.
Japanese importers need comprehensive documentation proving zero cannabinoid content, including ISO-certified lab certificates and manufacturer declarations.
Terpene Belt Farms provides Fresh Never Frozen® terpenes with complete cannabinoid removal through solventless steam distillation, capturing 60+ distinct terpene compounds. Every batch undergoes rigorous third-party testing and documentation that meets Japanese customs requirements, providing formulators with a compliant alternative to restricted CBD ingredients.
Key Takeaways
- Japan’s December 2024 cannabis law amendments redefined THC as a narcotic under the Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Act, introducing strict detection limits of 10 ppm for oils, 1 ppm for edibles, and 0.1 ppm for beverages.
- These limits eliminated most CBD imports, but pure terpenes remain fully legal because they contain no cannabinoids and are classified as aromatic compounds, not controlled substances.
- Importing terpenes requires documentation that clearly distinguishes them from cannabis-derived ingredients, including certificates of analysis proving zero cannabinoids, manufacturer declarations of non-cannabis origin, and Japanese-translated safety data sheets.
- Japan enforces identical regulations across all 47 prefectures, with stricter inspections in major ports like Tokyo, Yokohama, and Osaka. Using precise language such as “aromatic compounds” rather than “terpenes” helps prevent customs delays.
- Terpene Belt Farms provides Japan-compliant terpene oils with verified zero-cannabinoid certification, ISO-accredited lab testing, and full documentation accepted by customs nationwide, helping manufacturers maintain supply continuity under the world’s toughest THC restrictions. Partner with us for our wholesale services today or purchase a sample kit for your initial R&D.
Japanese formulators face unprecedented market disruption following the enforcement of amended cannabis regulations on December 12, 2024. While these changes finally clarified CBD’s legal status after years of ambiguity, the world’s strictest THC limits, 10ppm for oils, 1ppm for edibles, 0.1ppm for beverages, eliminated over 90% of previously available products overnight.
R&D teams now struggle with supplier exits, testing variability at such low detection thresholds, and procurement uncertainty for cannabis-derived ingredients.
Pure terpenes operate with entirely different regulations from cannabinoids. The amended Cannabis Control Act specifically targets products containing THC and other controlled cannabinoids, not isolated aromatic compounds used in fragrance and flavoring applications.
Here’s everything you need to know about Japan’s regulations, their policies on terpenes, and how Terpene Belt Farms can help add compliant terpenes to your product formulations.
Cannabis Regulations in Japan
Japan has some of the world’s most stringent cannabis regulations, rooted in the 1948 Cannabis Control Act. The December 2024 amendments marked the first major revision in 75 years, introducing criminal penalties for cannabis consumption while simultaneously creating pathways for medical cannabis pharmaceuticals.
This dual approach reflects Japan’s complex relationship with cannabis, acknowledging its potential medical benefits while maintaining zero tolerance for recreational use.
The amended law shifts from regulating plant parts to regulating chemical compounds. Previously, products derived from mature stems and seeds were legal, regardless of the method of processing. Now, any detectable THC triggers prohibition, irrespective of the source.
Cannabis possession and cultivation face strict penalties in Japan. These penalties apply regardless of the quantity, as the authorities do not distinguish between personal use amounts and trafficking volumes. For businesses, this means a single contaminated batch could result in criminal prosecution of company executives, making supplier verification absolutely critical.
The Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Act now classifies THC and its isomers as narcotics alongside heroin and cocaine. This means that any product containing even microscopic THC amounts is regulated as such under the NPSCL, adding layers of complexity that most importers cannot work with.
In 2023, Japan processed 6,482 cannabis-related arrests, with 70% involving individuals under 30. The government attributes this to the proliferation of synthetic cannabinoids through “loophole herbs”, designer compounds mimicking THC effects without containing actual THC. Each new synthetic variant requires individual prohibition, creating an endless cat-and-mouse chase that keeps authorities constantly behind market innovations.
Our terpene oils undergo rigorous purification, ensuring complete cannabinoid removal, essential for Japanese compliance, where even 0.001% THC means criminal liability. Every batch includes comprehensive analytical documentation from ISO-certified laboratories, providing the legal protection Japanese importers need.
Recent Legislative Attempts in Japan
The path to Japan’s cannabis reform began with international pressure and domestic advocacy. International recognition of cannabis’s medical applications, including the UN’s 2020 reclassification of cannabis to acknowledge its medical utility, combined with clinical trials of Epidiolex, a CBD-based medication for severe epilepsy, prompted MHLW to convene an expert panel in 2021.
The panel’s recommendations, published in their report, proposed three fundamental changes:
- Criminalizing cannabis consumption to strengthen deterrence
- Shifting from part-based to compound-based regulation
- Permitting cannabis-derived pharmaceutical development
These proposals faced intense debate, with the amendments ultimately passing the Diet in December 2023. The resulting laws allowed medical cannabis while strengthening recreational controls, creating an environment where medical pathways exist theoretically but remain practically limited.
In May 2024, MHLW released draft THC limits for public comment. The proposed thresholds, initially set at 1 ppm for raw materials, triggered an immediate backlash from the CBD industry.
Industry groups argued these limits would destroy the emerging market, estimated to reach approximately $575-630 million by 2025. Dr. Yuji Masataka of Green Zone Japan noted the limits were 1,000 times stricter than international standards, making compliance technically impossible for natural products.
The revised guidance raised the raw material limits to 10 ppm but maintained ultra-low thresholds for finished products: 0.1 ppm for beverages and 1 ppm for foods.
Japan’s Regulations: Cannabis vs Hemp vs Terpenes
| Product Category | Legal Status | Required Permits | Testing Requirements | Commercial Sale |
| Cannabis Plant | Illegal | N/A | N/A | Criminal offense |
| Medical Cannabis | Restricted | MHLW approval | Pharmaceutical standards | Prescription only (pending) |
| CBD Products | Legal with limits | Import confirmation | THC <10ppm (oils) | Restricted |
| Hemp Fiber/Seeds | Legal | Cultivation license | No THC testing | Industrial only |
| Hemp Flowers | Illegal | N/A | N/A | Prohibited |
| Pure Terpenes | Unrestricted | Standard import | Zero cannabinoids | Legal |
| Synthetic Cannabinoids | Variable | N/A | N/A | Ban-by-compound |
There is a difference between hemp and cannabis in Japanese law. Licensed hemp cultivation for fiber and seeds continues under strict oversight, with farmers required to grow government-approved Tochigishiro varieties containing negligible THC.
THC-free CBD products occupy a precarious middle ground. They face constant scrutiny from customs, police, and health authorities. The Regional Bureaus of Health and Welfare now require pre-import confirmation, including certificates of analysis from MHLW-registered laboratories. Even approved products face random retesting, with detection of any THC above limits triggering immediate recalls and potential criminal charges.
Pure terpenes avoid these complications. Classified as aromatic compounds for fragrance and flavoring use, they fall under general chemical import regulations rather than cannabis-specific laws.
This regulatory separation remains in place despite the December 2024 amendments, providing a reliable pathway for businesses seeking THC-free terpenes without legal risk. Our premium terpene collections include comprehensive documentation distinguishing them from controlled substances, with each certificate explicitly stating the absence of all cannabinoids.
Import Requirements and Documentation
Importing terpenes into Japan requires meticulous documentation distinguishing them from cannabis-derived products. Japan Customs applies intense scrutiny to anything potentially related to cannabis, making clear labeling and certification essential for smooth clearance.
A single documentation error can trigger weeks of delays and thousands of dollars in storage fees at warehouses.
Required Import Documents
- Commercial invoice specifying “aromatic compounds” or “flavor ingredients” with HS code 3301.90
- Laboratory certificates showing non-detect levels for THC, CBD, and all cannabinoids
- Manufacturer’s declaration explicitly stating zero cannabis content and industrial-only applications
Furthermore, these products require certificates of analysis from accredited laboratories, which must demonstrate zero THC/CBD content using validated methods with detection limits of less than 0.01 ppm. The manufacturer’s declaration must explicitly state that the products contain no controlled substances and are derived from non-cannabis botanical sources.
Safety data sheets require Japanese translation by certified translators, as machine translations are rejected.
Customs clearance normally takes 3-5 business days at major ports like Narita, Haneda, and Kansai airports. Maritime shipments through Yokohama or Kobe may require 5-7 days. Any mention of “cannabis,” “hemp,” or “CBD” on documentation triggers additional inspection, potentially adding weeks to clearance time.
Even company names containing these terms can cause delays, making supplier selection critical for smooth operations.
The Plant Protection Act requires phytosanitary certificates for plant-derived materials. While pure terpenes are typically exempt as processed products, some customs officers still request these certificates.
Including a statement that products are “fully refined aromatic compounds not subject to plant quarantine” helps avoid delays. The Japanese Industrial Standards (JIS) don’t specifically address terpenes; however, general chemical import requirements apply. Products must include proper hazard labeling in accordance with Japan’s GHS implementation, storage and handling instructions in Japanese, and batch numbers that enable traceability.
Regional Consistency Across Prefectures
Unlike federated nations, Japan maintains uniform national regulations across all 47 prefectures. From Hokkaido to Okinawa, uniform import rules, testing requirements, and enforcement standards apply nationwide. This consistency simplifies compliance, but it also means that there are no regional variations, making market entry easier. However, enforcement and business culture vary significantly by region, affecting practical operations.
- Tokyo leads in enforcement intensity due to the concentration of importers and distributors. The Tokyo Metropolitan Police’s Pharmaceutical Crime Division conducts regular inspections of CBD shops, with any product testing above THC limits triggering immediate closure.
- Osaka and Nagoya follow similar patterns, with dedicated units monitoring cannabis-adjacent businesses. These major cities also process the majority of imports, making relationships with local customs brokers essential for navigating increased scrutiny.
- Rural prefectures like Shimane or Tokushima see less frequent enforcement, but apply identical standards when inspections occur. Local police often lack sophisticated testing equipment, so they send samples to regional centers for analysis. This can delay investigations, but doesn’t reduce penalty severity. For businesses considering regional distribution strategies, rural areas offer no regulatory advantages, but may result in slower enforcement response times.
- Okinawa’s proximity to U.S. military bases creates a unique set of dynamics. While military personnel can legally use CBD under U.S. regulations on base, Japanese law applies immediately outside base boundaries. This has led to several high-profile arrests of service members and heightened local enforcement. Businesses in Okinawa face additional scrutiny due to concerns about products crossing between jurisdictions.
- Port cities process the majority of terpene imports, with Yokohama handling ~40% of chemical imports, Kobe managing distribution in the Kansai region, and Nagoya serving central Japan’s manufacturers.
Each port maintains identical documentation requirements, although processing times vary based on volume and the inspector’s familiarity with terpene products. We provide consistent documentation accepted at all entry points, with established relationships at major ports, ensuring predictable clearance times.
Best Practices for Japanese Businesses
Success in Japan’s terpene market requires meticulous attention to regulatory boundaries, documentation standards, and cultural business practices that distinguish compliant operations from cannabis-associated activities.
Operational Separation and Documentation
Japanese companies importing terpenes must maintain clear separation from CBD or cannabis-related operations. Even sharing warehouse space with CBD products can trigger enhanced scrutiny from authorities. Successful importers establish dedicated supply chains with no cannabis associations, treating terpene operations as distinct from cannabinoid-related business lines.
Proper documentation is key. Every shipment requires certificates explicitly stating “contains no cannabinoids,” “THC-free and CBD-free aromatic compounds,” and “for fragrance/flavoring use only.” Avoid any cannabis imagery, strain names, or references to effects on packaging or marketing materials.
Quality Control and Internal Procedures
Quality control protocols should extend beyond regulatory requirements to build trust with Japanese partners who value consistency above all else. This includes:
- Retention samples from every batch are stored for a minimum of two years
- Third-party testing for cannabinoid absence using multiple methodologies
- Stability studies confirming no THC formation over shelf life
Japanese businesses typically test incoming materials even with supplier certificates, as liability remains with the importer if prohibited substances are detected. Terpene Belt Farms supports this verification process by providing split samples for testing and analysis.
Staff training on regulatory distinctions helps prevent costly mistakes that can damage business relationships and reputations. Employees must understand that terpenes (unrestricted aromatic compounds) differ from CBD (restricted with THC limits) and THC (prohibited narcotic). Clear operational procedures should separate terpene handling from any cannabis-derived materials, with different staff managing each product category when possible.
Language Precision and Relationship Building
Language precision matters critically in Japanese business culture. Use “香料成分” (kōryō seibun – fragrance components) or “芳香族化合物” (hōkōzoku kagōbutsu – aromatic compounds) rather than “テルペン” (terupen), which may be associated with cannabis. Marketing materials should emphasize industrial applications rather than any physiological effects, focusing on fragrance, flavor, and technical properties.
Building relationships with Japanese partners requires patience and consistency that often exceeds Western business norms. Provide detailed technical data, including extraction methods, demonstrate long-term supply stability through multi-year contracts, and offer gradual payment terms.
Japanese businesses value suppliers who understand local compliance requirements without requiring education, and who can provide solutions to problems before they’re explicitly identified.
Closing Thoughts — The Way Forward With Terpene Belt Farms
Japan’s cannabis regulations, with THC limits 1,000 times stricter than international standards, demand more than compliant ingredients. They require a partner who understands the stakes.
Terpene Belt Farms is your ideal partner to source cannabis-derived terpenes with zero cannabinoids. Our vertically integrated operation, owning farms, genetics, and processing, ensures consistency and compliance from seed to bottle.
Our Fresh Never Frozen® (FNF) terpene oils capture over 60+ distinct terpenes through solventless steam distillation, preserving volatile compounds that synthetic recreations miss entirely. Every batch undergoes rigorous third-party testing specifically for cannabinoid absence, providing the documentation Japanese authorities require.
For products requiring indirect enhancement, NEU Bag infusion packs deliver up to 5% terpene increases in 48 hours without equipment or spray application. Independent testing confirmed 4.18% improvements with prominent aroma enhancement. Available in five profiles, including Candy Gas and Dessert, NEU Bags use natural diffusion for uniform results.
We provide comprehensive formulation support, technical documentation, and split samples for verification, everything Japanese partners expect.
Request terpene samples to experience how we can support your formulation needs in Japan with verified purity and comprehensive documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Import Cannabis-Derived Terpenes without Special Permits?
Yes, if they contain absolutely zero THC, CBD, or other cannabinoids. Products must be pure isolated terpenes with comprehensive analytical certification. Any trace cannabinoid content requires narcotics handling licenses. Terpene Belt Farms’ isolation processes ensure the complete removal of cannabinoids, verified by multiple analytical methods.
Do The December 2024 Amendments Restrict Terpene Sales?
No. The amendments target THC and cannabinoid-containing products. Pure aromatic compounds, excluding those containing controlled substances, remain unrestricted under general chemical regulations. This separation has been explicitly confirmed by MHLW guidance.
What Documentation Do Japanese Customs Require?
Commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of analysis showing zero cannabinoids, manufacturer’s declaration of non-cannabis origin, and Japanese safety data sheets. Additional certificates may be requested at the discretion of the customs officer. Our documentation packages exceed the minimum requirements to prevent delays.
Are Prefectural Regulations Different?
No. All 47 prefectures follow identical national laws. Enforcement intensity varies by location, but legal requirements remain uniform nationwide. This consistency means successful import procedures in Tokyo work the same way in Osaka or Fukuoka.
What Happens If THC Is Detected in My Terpene Products?
Any THC detection triggers criminal investigation. Products are seized, businesses face immediate closure, and responsible parties risk prosecution, with penalties including up to five years’ imprisonment. This is why our zero-cannabinoid guarantee is essential for Japanese operations.
Sources Used for This Article
- Japanese Law Translation: “Cannabis Control Act” – japaneselawtranslation.go.jp/en/laws/view/2594/en
- Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare: “令和７年３月１日に「大麻取締法及び麻薬及び向精神薬取締法の一部を改正する法律」の一部が施行されます” – mhlw.go.jp/stf/newpage_43079.html
- The Asahi Shimbun: “Cannabis busts exceed stimulant cases in 2023 for the first time” – asahi.com/ajw/articles/15205590
- VICE: “A Loophole in Japan’s Weed Laws Is Getting Tens of Thousands High” – vice.com/en/article/88qamk/japan-weed-law-thc-thco-cannabis-ban
- Japan Compliance: “New Laws in Japan: Key Legislation from the 212th Diet Session” – japancompliance.com/new-laws-in-japan-key-legislation-from-the-212th-diet-session/
- DIA Global Forum: “Cannabis-Derived Drugs in Japan: New Legislation and Outlook” – globalforum.diaglobal.org/issue/february-2025/cannabis-derived-drugs-in-japan-new-legislation-and-outlook/
- Hemp Today: “Recommendation from Japan’s health ministry could open door for medical CBD” – hemptoday.net/recommendation-from-japans-health-ministry-could-open-door-for-medical-cbd/
- Business of Cannabis: “Japan Publishes Details of Newly Proposed THC Limits For Incoming Cannabis Market” – businessofcannabis.com/japan-published-details-of-newly-proposed-thc-limits-for-incoming-cannabis-market/
- CannaReporter: “Strict 0,0001% THC limit could isolate Japan from international CBD markets” – cannareporter.eu/en/2024/07/23/rigoroso-limite-de-00001-de-thc-pode-isolar-japao-dos-mercados-internacionais-de-cbd/
- GVB Biopharma: “Japanese CBD Industry Growth Forecast: Now to 2025” – gvbbiopharma.com/japanese-cbd-industry-growth-forecast/
- Euromonitor: “The Evolution of Japan’s Cannabis Market in 2024 and the…” – euromonitor.com/article/the-evolution-of-japans-cannabis-market-in-2024-and-the-impact-of-legal-regulations
