How to export to Japan

As the world’s third largest economy and fourth largest e-commerce market, Japan should absolutely be on your radar. Yet, many foreign e-commerce brands are struggling to engage with consumers there correctly. So, what should you be doing to get it right and cash in?

Overshadowed in the past by California’s Silicon Valley giants, it can be easy to forget that Japan is a technological superpower in its own right. Just think for a moment of the impressive number of household names that originate from Japan: Sony, Toyota, Panasonic, Toshiba, Fujitsu, Nissan, Honda…the list goes on and on.

But what about the e-commerce landscape? Unfortunately, it does not come without challenges for international businesses wishing to sell to consumers there. A lack of understanding of the Japanese e-commerce market amongst foreign sellers means that many fail to hit the mark with Japanese consumers, and as a result, only 10% of them shop from foreign websites¹.

Yet, all is not lost. It’s just a question of learning about the market there in order to attract and engage with consumers. Once you do that, you’ll have access to a thriving economy, with low competition from other foreign brands.

Read on to learn how to get it right…