| Some Japanese barriers to trade | |||
| Japan is the U.S.'s second-largest
export market, despite having some of the most complex
trade barriers of all developed economies. The U.S. finds
some of these barriers unacceptable and has lodged
complaints with the World Trade Organization. Sometimes the range of the Japanese barriers can present novel difficulties for travellers. For example, American over-the-counter decongestants are classed as prescription narcotics in Japan. Tourists have frequently found their Drixoral, Excedrin Extra-Strength, or Vicks inhalers confiscated by customs officers. Furthermore, all food supplements and vitamins are also classed as drugs, so carrying them into Japan can be tricky. Most peculiarly, the Japanese classify more than 24 condoms as a “commercial quantity", and tourists have sometimes found their supplies confiscated by customs officers. The U.S. Trade Representative has published a detailed document concerning Japanese trade barriers. Read it at: |
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