Doing Business in Japan
Venturing into international markets often presents challenges, but perhaps none as distinctive as conducting business in Japan, especially when compared to more familiar and nearby markets.
Below, you will find a brief overview of Japanese business organizations and their contact information to aid your endeavors.
Japanese Business Organizations
Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO)
“JETRO, or the Japan External Trade Organization, is a government-related organization that works to promote mutual trade and investment between Japan and the rest of the world. Originally established in 1958 to promote Japanese exports abroad, JETRO's core focus in the 21st century has shifted toward promoting foreign direct investment into Japan and helping small to medium size Japanese firms maximize their global export potential.“
Japan Institute of Labour policy and training
“The objective of the Japan Institute for Labour Policy and Training is to contribute to the planning of labor policies and work toward their effective and efficient implementation, as well as to promote the livelihood of workers and develop the national economy by conducting comprehensive research projects on labor issues and policies, both domestically and internationally, and capitalize on the findings of such research by implementing training programs for administrative officials.“
Manufactured Imports Promotion Organization (MIPRO)
“In addition to distributing information on manufactured imports, the organization now also collects, analyzes and disseminates a wide range of information on investment in Japan with the view to developing related businesses and thereby contributing to the balanced expansion of international trade.“
Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry
“The mission of OCCI is to contribute to realization of a revitalized economic society, reconversion of industrial structure, enhancement of international competitiveness, renovated business management by member companies and creation of business opportunities.”
Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry
“Our goal is to encourage the full flowering of individual inspiration by helping member companies, their employees, and each community ceaselessly foster bold innovation, making the most of their own unique characteristics.”
Tokyo Chamber of Commerce and Industry
“We work to achieve better business activities in Tokyo, using the advantages of scale that come with a member base of approx. 80.000.“
Starting a Business in Japan?
Innovation Norway
“Innovation Norway is the Norwegian Government's most important instrument for innovation and development of Norwegian enterprises and industry.
We support companies in developing their competitive advantage and to enhance innovation.Norwegian enterprises have access to a broad business support system as well as financial means. Innovation Norway provides competence, advisory services, promotional services and network services. The marketing of Norway as a tourist destination is also considered one of the organizations important tasks. By combining local industry knowledge and international networks with the business ideas and the motivation of entrepreneurs, the foundation for new successful businesses is created. Innovation Norway is the Norwegian government's official trade representative abroad. We aim to assist Norwegian businesses grow and find new markets. Local presence is therefore of crucial concern to us.”
Tokyo One-Stop Business Establishment Center (TOSBEC)
“The Tokyo One-Stop Business Establishment Center unifies the procedures that foreign companies and start-ups need to complete to establish a business. This is a first for our country. Through personalized service provided by staff knowledgeable in administrative procedures and experts, the center helps to facilitate the prompt completion of various filing procedures required when starting a business, including those for certification of articles of incorporation, company registration and notification of incorporation, taxes, social security, and immigration. Furthermore, to meet the needs of companies, the center also offers support for electronic applications as well as interpretation and translation services in several languages.”