What to Check Before Sourcing Green Tea for Overseas Sales: Labels, Packaging, and Export Compliance

If you're planning to sell green tea internationally, you can't simply use the same wholesale products made for the Japanese domestic market. Exporting requires attention to labeling laws, packaging durability, ingredient regulations, and more. Here’s a guide to what small businesses should check when sourcing green tea for overseas sales.

1. Importance of English Labels and Ingredient Listings

Many countries legally require food products to include ingredient lists, allergen warnings, and nutritional information in English or the local language. Before choosing a supplier, confirm:

Are ingredients listed in English?
Is the net weight, manufacturer name, and expiration date clearly printed?
Is there an export-ready label with nutritional facts and analysis values?
Is the product properly classified, such as “Sweetened Green Tea Powder”?

Some Japanese suppliers may offer custom packaging with English labeling, especially those with OEM services or prior export experience. Partnering with such vendors is often safer and more efficient.

2. Packaging and Shelf Stability for Shipping

International shipping takes time and exposes products to varying temperatures and humidity levels. Look for green tea products that:

Come in lightproof, moisture-resistant packaging like aluminum pouches
Are formulated to withstand heat and humidity (important for sea freight)
Have a shelf life of 6 to 12 months or more
Are available in export-friendly carton sizes and unit packaging

Vacuum sealing or oxygen absorber packets can also help maintain quality during transit.

3. Regulatory Differences by Country

Each country has its own food regulations—what’s allowed in Japan might be banned elsewhere. Common issues include:

United States: Follows FDA rules; ingredients like stevia or artificial sweeteners may face restrictions
European Union: Requires additive labeling using E-numbers, with extra care needed for flavoring and coloring agents
Southeast Asia: Countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia may have unique food classifications or customs codes

For smoother clearance, natural, additive-free products with simple ingredient lists are often the best option for export.

4. Choosing the Right Sales and Export Partners

Successfully selling green tea abroad also requires setting up a reliable export workflow. Consider these steps:

Source from domestic suppliers that can provide export support
Adapt product labels and documents to meet local legal requirements
Work with a freight forwarder or export agent familiar with food logistics
Secure local distribution channels, such as cafés, supermarkets, or e-commerce platforms

If your product is positioned as “Japanese-style green tea,” it helps to include usage instructions and cultural context—many customers abroad may not know how to prepare it properly.

Conclusion

When sourcing green tea for overseas sales, flavor and cost are just part of the equation. You'll also need to ensure:

English or bilingual labeling
Export-ready packaging
Compliance with local food laws
Durable, long-life storage
A solid network of logistics and sales partners

By planning ahead and working with experienced suppliers, you can avoid regulatory setbacks and confidently expand your green tea business to international markets.