We also assist companies wishing to enter the Japanese market with the following services;
For more details, please contact us via Form anytime.
When foreign companies aim to expand their products or services into the Japanese market, there are several key points they should consider beforehand. Understanding the unique market environment, culture, and legal regulations in Japan and crafting an appropriate strategy are crucial for success.
1. Market Research and Segmentation
Identifying the Target Market: Japan has regional differences in consumer preferences, making it important to decide which area(s) to target.
Competitive Analysis: Understanding how your product or service can differentiate itself from local competitors is essential through comparative analysis.
2. Cultural Adaptation and Localization
Language and Culture: It's crucial not just to translate product packaging or marketing materials into Japanese but also to adjust messages to respect and align with Japanese culture and values.
Consumer Behavior: Japanese consumers are highly sensitive to quality and service, necessitating attention to detail.
3. Legal Regulations and Standards
Import Regulations: Ensure your products meet Japan's unique safety standards and certification requirements,
obtaining certification if necessary.
Taxes and Duties: Understanding the Japanese tax system and tariff rates is essential for cost calculations.
4. Business Practices and Networking
Business Etiquette: Understanding and respecting Japan's unique business practices and manners is required.
Partnerships: Building relationships with local partners or agents is crucial for market access and establishing sales channels.
5. Marketing Strategy and Sales Channels
Digital Marketing: With a high internet penetration rate, social media and search engine marketing are effective in Japan.
Logistics and Distribution: Understanding Japan's unique distribution standards and logistics systems is necessary to establish efficient delivery methods.
6. Product/Service Adaptation
Product Adaptation: Customizing products for the Japanese market may be necessary, including adjustments in size, design, or functionality.
IT Consultant, Marketing Consultant and Startup Mentor
Startup Advisor at Start up Hub Tokyo@Tokyo Metropolitan office, Tokyo
Global Innovation with STARTUPS Mentor, Tokyo STEAM@Tokyo
Startup Advisor at Kawasaki NEDO Innovation Center@Kawasaki city, Kanagawa prefecture
Business Judge for Shonan Business Contest@Fujisawa city, Kanagawa prefecture
Business Judge for Women's Entrepreneurship Challenge Contest@Tokyo
After working 15 years in the IT industry as a sales, marketing and global project manager at Equant France Telecom and Cisco Systems, I resigned and started my company in 2012. In addition to being a company CEO, I also work as a part-time consultant in the government sector、such as an Advisor at Startup Hub Tokyo’s of Tokyo Metropolitan Office. I also similar roles in Yokohama-city and Kawasaki city. I have experience advising many startups and small businesses Recently, I also work as a as a judge for business contests.