Export to Japan | Where to get started

I want to start this article by explaining the interconnected nature of global trade: Imports and exports are two sides of the same coin. Without exports, there are no imports, and vice versa.

First Steps Towards Export

Before you start exporting to Japan, you will need to find yourself an importer inside of Japan. The importer will carry responsibility for the due diligence, ensuring that the products imported into Japan are in line with Japanese law and regulations. The importer has to collect the evidence from the manufacturer and run this evidence by various governmental bodies to receive approval for import. Ultimately, the importer will be liable for mistakes, violations, and any damages caused by the products after import.

Target Buyers

Buyers do not equal importers. While many buyers might be interested in purchasing your product, they will refrain from importing simply because it is not in their business model and they do not want to become liable for the products.

The Risk for Your Importer and Distribution Partner

The most common offers we get as an import and distribution company is

• You can sell our products for us, and you get X% of the revenue

• We send you free products to sell, and you pay us after you sell them.

• Please buy our products.

• Can you introduce me to an importer?

For export managers, it might be worth considering that their products without import history pose a risk to importers and distributors as the clearance procedure is time-consuming and expensive. If products get rejected by customs, the importer has to either arrange for disposal or transport them back to their country of origin, making the entire deal quite risky and, quite frankly, a gamble.

Be prepared

To get ahead of the competition, it is recommended that you have this work done in advance by a specialized company such as JML Group. This company can help your business prepare all the import documentation in advance and obtain the permits and certifications you will need to prove that your company is import-ready.

Language barrier

Another obstacle most exporters face is the language barrier. Having additional documents and pamphlets specifically designed for sales and marketing can help your brand leap miles ahead. Not to mention, having pre-prepared packing designed for the Japanese market and Japanese labels, which are in line with the Food-Labeling Law, will demonstrate how serious you are without saying a single word.

Test and Demonstrate

By setting up popups, you can go the extra mile by demonstrating your sales potential to any potential partner. If your products perform well, you have proof of concept, which will have buyers crawling over coal to get a deal with you.

Conclusion

Don't make the importers and distributors do all the work for you by having them pay all the costs for getting you into Japan. Instead, demonstrate how serious you are and get prepared.