Week 24, 2026

June 15 – June 19, 2026 5 stories

MHLW Issues First Official Guidance on CBG Import Documentation Requirements

The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare released comprehensive documentation standards for CBG product imports following increased market interest after CBN's designation as a Specified Drug. New requirements include mandatory third-party COAs with sub-0.01% THC verification, botanical source declarations, and enhanced chain of custody documentation. The guidance establishes CBG as explicitly exempt from Specified Drug controls when derived from hemp stalks and seeds, providing regulatory clarity for overseas manufacturers. Import applications must now include detailed extraction method descriptions and facility GMP certifications.

📰 Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare · mhlw.go.jp

Tokyo Customs Reports 40% Increase in CBG Product Import Applications

Tokyo Port Customs announced that CBG product import applications have surged 40% since June 1, coinciding with CBN's classification as a Specified Drug. The majority of applications originate from US and European manufacturers seeking to capture market share previously held by CBN products. Processing times have extended to 3-4 weeks due to enhanced documentation review procedures. Customs officials report high compliance rates with the new THC residue testing protocols implemented in December 2024.

📰 Japan Customs · customs.go.jp

Kyoto University Study Confirms CBG Safety Profile for Japanese Consumer Market

Researchers at Kyoto University's Graduate School of Medicine published peer-reviewed data supporting CBG's safety profile in the Journal of Japanese Pharmaceutical Sciences. The study examined CBG metabolism in Japanese population samples and found no significant adverse interactions with common medications. Lead researcher Dr. Tanaka noted that CBG shows favorable pharmacokinetic properties compared to previously available cannabinoids. The research provides scientific backing for regulatory agencies evaluating CBG's consumer safety status.

📰 Journal of Japanese Pharmaceutical Sciences · jstage.jst.go.jp

Major Japanese Retailers Announce CBG Product Sourcing Partnerships

Three leading Japanese health product retailers confirmed exclusive partnerships with overseas CBG manufacturers to fill market gaps left by CBN prohibition. The retailers emphasized strict adherence to enhanced THC testing requirements and accelerated compliance protocols. Industry analysts project CBG market value could reach ¥2.8 billion by year-end as consumers seek alternatives to discontinued CBN products. Retailers report consumer education initiatives are essential due to limited CBG awareness compared to CBD.

📰 Nikkei Business Daily · nikkei.com

National Police Agency Updates Cannabinoid Testing Protocols for CBG Products

The National Police Agency revised its laboratory testing procedures to specifically address CBG product analysis following increased market activity. New protocols require enhanced chromatography methods to distinguish CBG from potential controlled substances and verify THC absence below detection limits. The updated procedures standardize testing across prefectural laboratories and establish uniform evidence collection protocols. Training for law enforcement personnel on CBG identification begins next month to ensure consistent enforcement of current regulations.

📰 National Police Agency · npa.go.jp
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