U.S. Frozen Potato Tariffs Eliminated in Japan

On April 1, Japanese tariffs on U.S. frozen potato products, such as French fries, were eliminated, down from 8.5% originally. “The elimination of this tariff puts our industry back on a level playing field with foreign competitors in accessing this vital market. Thanks to all the work of USDA Secretary Vilsack, USTR Ambassador Tai, USDA Japan, and USDA’s Foreign Ag Service for supporting the long-term health of the U.S. potato industry,” said NPC VP of Trade Affairs Jared Balcom and potato grower from Pasco, Washington.

According to USDA, in 2020, the United States exported over USD342m of potatoes and potato products to Japan, making Japan the largest overseas market for U.S. potatoes. U.S. potato products accounted for nearly 70% of Japan’s total potato product imports. According to the National Potato Council, given a competitive tariff regime and reasonable market access agreements, it is believed that this market can grow by another USD150m annually (42%) in the very near future.