11 - Network access - building trust in Japan
In Japan, trust is everything. Success in the Japanese market often depends not only on what you sell, but also on who introduces you, how you approach a company, and whether the right decision-makers see you. This is where Japan Trade Advisor offers a unique advantage.
With nearly 30 years of experience working across a wide range of industries in Japan, we have built a deep and trusted network that can open doors faster, shorten lead times, and help you avoid the common struggles foreign companies face.
Why network matter in Japan
There are many ways to enter the Japanese market: through exhibitions, direct outreach, "cold calls" or local agents. However, without a solid network, most approaches are slow and uncertain and no guarantee for volume, long-term relation or a fair profit. Even when you meet companies at trade shows or receive inquiries online, it often takes significant effort and time to identify the right contact person—especially when dealing with complex corporate structures. For smaller importers it might work, but then you will most likely lack the volume you are looking for anyway.
By contrast, our network approach starts at a higher level. Through personal introductions and industry trust, we help you reach the people who make decisions. This dramatically increases your chances.
A powerful combination: network and action
We do not rely on networking alone. Our success comes from combining methods that reinforce each other:
we activate our existing trusted network where appropriate
we participate in trade fairs to identify new prospects
we conduct targeted outreach based on market data
we follow up directly with decision-makers using cultural and strategic insight
This combination allows us to expand your reach quickly, gain early market feedback, and move efficiently from introduction to negotiation.
What makes our network unique
Japan Trade Advisor has spent decades working directly with Japanese companies. Through business, consultancy, and collaboration across industries, we have built a network that includes:
manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers
importers, distributors, and trading companies
industry groups, sector experts, and consultants
executives and senior managers across multiple fields
C-level Japanese and even retired staffs (ask why this is important...)
Our background, fluent Japanese skills, and cultural understanding allow us to build trust with local companies and gain access to discussions that most foreign entrants cannot reach on their own. Our network also allows you to establish a local branch run by local "old boys" who knows the entire industry better than any younger Japanese. No matter the industry...
Our service includes:
identifying key people in your target market
making introductions where trust is already established
advising on how to approach specific companies
supporting communication with local businesses
following up through appropriate Japanese business etiquette
strengthening your network over time for long-term success
We reduce Japan market access from years to months Japan market fast-track access, thats what we do
Without the right connections, breaking into the Japanese market can take years. With our support, it can take weeks. We bring not only contacts, but a proven method for building relationships that lead to business.
Whether you're just entering the market or looking to expand, we can help you connect with the right people and accelerate your journey in Japan.
Want to learn more about Japan, & doing business in Japan?
Don’t forget to explore our blog “Looking into the Japanese Mind.” This blog gives you essential insights into Japanese business culture, communication norms, and the decision-making style of Japanese companies. Understanding these elements will help you build trust, avoid misunderstandings, and succeed in the Japanese market. You can read the blog here: Inside the Japanese mind.
You should also take advantage of our advanced data service at JapanTradeStatistics.com. This platform provides the fastest and most precise way to analyze Japan’s import and export movements, updated directly from official Japanese trade data. With just a few clicks, you can filter thousands of HS4 codes, compare markets, and understand complex trade developments in seconds, giving you a competitive advantage that traditional spreadsheets or slow databases cannot offer. All dashboards run in Power BI, allowing you to embed live, automatically updated charts directly into your PowerPoint presentations, ensuring that your reports always contain the latest information without you ever have to update it manually.
JapanTradeStatistics.com is an invaluable tool for:
Trading companies evaluating market shifts
Journalists and analysts covering economic or geopolitical developments
Public institutions and embassies tracking bilateral trade
Exporters and importers identifying new opportunities
Consultants and researchers needing reliable, real-time data
Investors monitoring changes in the markets.
If you work with Japan, or plan to, this tool will save you hours of research while giving you insights that help you act faster, identify opportunities earlier, and make better, data-driven decisions.
Price: Ask for a quotation