Key Facts
• On August 1, 2025, the U.S. will impose a 25% tariff on Japanese imports.
• A sake brewery in Aomori, Japan, exports nearly 10% of its sake overseas.
• Approximately 50% of the brewery’s exports are sent to the U.S. market.
• The brewery fears higher prices may reduce sales and revenue in the U.S.
• The brewery plans to expand distribution to other countries as a countermeasure.
• In 2023, Aomori exported $90.6 million worth of agricultural and food products to the U.S.
• Over 80% of these exports were seafood, such as scallops.
• JETRO Aomori predicts gradual impacts on exports due to potential U.S. market cooling.
• JETRO advises companies to prepare for unpredictable tariff developments.
Summary
The U.S. will impose a 25% tariff on Japanese imports starting August 1, 2025, raising concerns for Japanese sake exporters. A sake brewery in Aomori, which exports nearly 10% of its products overseas-half of which go to the U.S.-fears reduced sales due to higher prices. To mitigate risks, the brewery plans to expand its distribution to other global markets. In 2023, Aomori exported $90.6 million worth of agricultural and food products to the U.S., with over 80% being seafood. JETRO Aomori anticipates gradual impacts on exports and advises businesses to prepare for potential market changes.
