Goods imports:
~US$ 800 billion per year (world top 7)
Japan
Japan — Global Import Market
Japan is one of the world's largest importers, bringing in roughly US$ 800 billion in goods each year. As a mature, high-income economy, Japan imports large volumes of energy, raw materials, and food to support a domestic market with strong purchasing power.
Market overview — imports by volume
Global share of imports:
~3%
Import reliance:
very high on energy and raw materials
Notable:
one of Asia's wealthiest consumer markets; strong demand for quality goods
Top 10 imported items by value
1. Mineral fuels & oils
(crude, LNG)
2. Electrical machinery & electronics
3. Machinery & mechanical appliances
4. Chemical products
5. Iron ore & ores
6. Food & beverages
7. Precision & measuring instruments
8. Plastics & articles
9. Medical & pharmaceutical products
10. Motor vehicles & parts
What this means for Canadian exporters
Japan is a high-value market for Canadian exporters of energy, minerals, food, and advanced materials. Many Japanese buyers source through local-language channels that English-only tools miss — exactly where local-language buyer discovery adds real value. Japan is a quality-focused market that rewards consistent, well-managed supplier relationships.