Companies that wish to supply goods and services to Japanese government organisations need to obtain qualifications to participate in tender procedures. Many organisations operate their own qualification system, but national government organisations also have a common qualification system, called ‘tou-itsu shikaku shinsei’ (unified qualification application system).

The qualification obtained here allows companies to participate in tenders at all national government organisations such as ministries and their attached regional and local equivalents. Obtaining this unified qualification will save you the administrative hassle of having to apply at each government organisation individually.

The unified supplier qualification is valid for a maximum of 3 years and runs over a set number of years. 2016 marks the start of a new period running until March 2019.  The application period starts at January 6, 2016 and runs until January 29, 2006. The new qualification will be valid from April 1^st, 2016.  Application after this period is also possible, but then the qualification will be valid from the date of issuance. 

Information and support 

The Japanese government does not information in foreign languages on how to apply for this qualification. Information in Japanese with links to the application documents can be found here. The JTTP Helpdesk also provides more information on how to apply and also offers a support service arranging the application for you.  

Webinar 

JTTP Helpdesk organized a webinar on obtaining supplier qualifications. Details.