How Much Are Wine Taxes in Asia? A Country-by-Country Breakdown

Japan, with its refined taste for wine, presents a more straightforward tax system. Wine taxes in Japan include both tariffs and liquor taxes. Still wines are subject to a general tariff rate of 15% or JPY 125 per liter (whichever is lower), with a minimum customs duty of JPY 67 per liter. A simplified tariff rate of JPY 70 per liter applies to imports with a total value less than JPY 200,000. Liquor tax on still wines is calculated at JPY 100 per liter. The customs duty rate on sparkling wines varies on a case-by-case basis, accompanied by a liquor tax rate ranging from JPY 80 to 181 per liter, depending on the weight.

Finally, South Korea, with its booming wine consumption, offers a mix of tariffs and taxes on imported wine. The customs duty averages 8% excluding agricultural products, with an additional 30% liquor tax, 10% education tax, and 10% VAT. However, several major wine exporters, including the EU, US, and Chile, benefit from FTAs that reduce tariffs to zero, making South Korea an increasingly attractive market for international wine traders.

For more detailed information on wine taxes, policies and growth opportunities in each Asian market, read it in our Asia’s Top 50 Wine Importers report here.