Japan Market Management
Japan is the third-largest economy in the world after the United States and China. Japan has high-income levels and a large customer base lucrative for products and services looking for a new market.
Language and cultural differences
An entry into the market in Japan poses unexpected challenges to foreign organizations. Some can be expected before starting the business and operations. And more will come once you are on-site and running the business.
The first thing to note is the difference in written and spoken language. Communication in English is much more difficult than expected. And much gets lost in translation.
The second is the cultural difference including business customs and consumer expectations. The Japanese high-speed railway system, the shinkansen, is famous for its high speed, high level of safety and comfort, efficiency, and punctuation. It's amazing to see and ride in it as a user. And it's beyond your imagination if you had to be the service provider.
Globalization and localization
Japan has actively taken in Western culture, especially since late 1800, and people are open to new ideas and cultures. At the same time, the localization of services and products have led to many success. The balance between globalization (unified operation, common products) and localization to appeal to its market is the key to success.
