Important Information for U.S. Customers Regarding Tariffs and Import Charges
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At KIREAJI, we believe that customers deserve transparency before making a purchase.
Because Japanese knives are shipped directly from Japan, orders delivered to the United States may be subject to import duties, tariffs, taxes, or customs-related charges assessed by U.S. Customs and other authorities.
This page explains what we currently know, what we do not know, and how we strive to keep our customers informed.
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Why We Cannot Provide an Accurate Estimate
One of the most common questions we receive from U.S. customers is:
"How much will I pay in tariffs or import charges?"
Unfortunately, we are unable to provide an accurate estimate.
The final amount is determined by U.S. Customs and related authorities, and may vary depending on factors such as:
- Current U.S. trade regulations
- Product classification
- Customs assessment procedures
- Shipping carrier processes
- Changes in laws and regulations
Because these decisions are made outside of our control, we cannot predict the final amount that may be charged.
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Recent Changes to U.S. Import Regulations
In recent years, U.S. tariff regulations affecting imported products have changed several times.
As a result, duties and import charges that may apply today could differ from those applied in the past.
We occasionally receive feedback from customers regarding customs charges; however, we do not receive official information about how those charges were calculated and therefore cannot guarantee that one customer's experience will be the same as another's.
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Our Commitment to Transparency
Some businesses choose not to mention tariffs until after an order is placed.
We believe a different approach is better.
Even when the information is incomplete or uncertain, we believe customers should be aware that additional charges may apply before making a purchase.
For this reason, we share the information available to us and update our guidance whenever significant changes become known.
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Learn More
Customers who would like to learn more about recent changes to U.S. tariff regulations may find the following reference article helpful.
The article discusses recent tariff developments involving steel, aluminum, and copper products and may provide useful background information regarding ongoing regulatory changes in the United States.
Please note that this article is provided for general informational purposes only.
KIREAJI cannot confirm whether the information discussed in the article applies to any specific knife, shipment, or customs assessment.
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Questions?
Questions about specific tariff assessments should be directed to the appropriate U.S. customs authorities or import professionals, as KIREAJI is unable to determine or estimate customs charges on behalf of customers.
While we cannot determine the final customs charges that may be assessed by U.S. authorities, we will always do our best to provide clear and honest information so that you can make your decision with confidence.
Thank you for your understanding and support.
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Historical Customer Report (November 2025)
In November 2025, one U.S. customer informed us that their shipment was assessed a tariff of approximately 50%.
We have chosen to share this information in the interest of transparency. However, this was a single customer experience and should not be interpreted as representative of future shipments.
Tariff assessments may vary significantly depending on applicable regulations, customs classification, shipping methods, and other factors determined by U.S. authorities.
Because these decisions are made outside of our control, we cannot predict whether similar charges would apply to any future order.
We encourage customers to view this report as historical reference information rather than as an indication of what they should expect to pay.
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Experience the sharpness trusted by professional chefs across Japan — handcrafted in Sakai City
Through our exclusive partnership with Shiroyama Knife Workshop, we deliver artisan-crafted Sakai knives worldwide. Each knife comes with free Honbazuke sharpening and a hand-crafted magnolia saya. Optional after-sales support is also available to help you care for your knife with lasting confidence.
KIREAJI's Three Promises to You
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1. Forged in the Legacy of Sakai
From Sakai City—Japan’s renowned birthplace of professional kitchen knives—each blade is crafted by master artisans with over six centuries of tradition. Perfectly balanced, enduringly sharp, and exquisitely finished, every cut carries the soul of true craftsmanship.
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2. Thoughtful Care for Everyday Use
Every knife includes a hand-fitted magnolia saya for safe storage. Upon request, we offer a complimentary Honbazuke final hand sharpening—giving you a precise, ready-to-use edge from day one.
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3. A Partnership for a Lifetime
A KIREAJI knife is more than a tool—it is a lifelong companion. With our bespoke paid aftercare services, we preserve its edge and beauty, ensuring it remains as precise and dependable as the day it first met your hand.