A Japanese national has pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiring to export firearm components and tactical accessories from the United States to Japan without the necessary licenses. Shota Yamamoto, 29, of Tokyo, entered his plea before a judge in Honolulu, with sentencing scheduled for June 1, 2026.
Court documents state that between March 2024 and July 2025, Yamamoto worked with another individual to obtain and send firearm parts from the U.S. to Japan. The exported items were intended for use in modifying airsoft equipment for sale to enthusiasts in Japan who sought highly realistic gear. Airsoft is a recreational activity involving replica firearms that shoot non-metallic pellets.
Yamamoto used an address in Hawaii to receive shipments of these components from American dealers. He then either transported them in checked luggage or shipped them through commercial carriers to Japan. He admitted to exporting or attempting to export more than 900 firearm components and accessories—including AR-15 lower receiver parts kits, upper receivers, magazines, and similar items—all requiring an export license he did not possess.
United States Attorney Ken Sorenson stated: “Shota Yamamoto, 29, of Tokyo, Japan, pled guilty today in federal court to conspiring to violate the Export Control Reform Act. Sentencing is set for June 1, 2026, before United States District Judge Micah W.J. Smith.”
If convicted at sentencing, Yamamoto could face up to 20 years in prison as well as a fine of up to $1 million and three years of supervised release.
The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations and the U.S. Department of Commerce – Bureau of Industry and Security. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael F. Albanese is handling the prosecution.
