One of the most common frustrations overseas companies face when working with Japanese partners is decision-making speed. Meetings feel productive, feedback seems positive, yet decisions take weeks—or even months—to materialise. This is rarely a sign of disinterest. More often, it reflects a fundamentally different decision-making structure . Understanding how decisions are made in Japanese companies is critical for building successful partnerships. Decision-Making in Japan I

Japan is one of the most unique music markets in the world. Despite the global shift towards streaming, Japan has maintained a distinctive industry structure that continues to favor physical formats, strong domestic labels, and deeply rooted fan culture. For international companies, understanding this structure is essential before entering the market. Market Size: The World’s Second-Largest Music Market Japan is the second-largest music market globally , after the United Stat

When reaching out to Japanese companies for the first time—whether by email, chat, or LinkedIn message —the initial communication carries more weight than many overseas teams expect. In Japan, the first contact  often sets the tone for the entire relationship. A poorly framed message may be ignored, while a thoughtful one can open doors to long-term collaboration. 1. First contact is about trust, not speed In many markets, first outreach focuses on efficiency: who you are,

When international companies partner with Japanese firms, challenges rarely come from technology, pricing, or product quality. More often, friction arises from differences in working culture —how teams communicate, make decisions, manage time, and define responsibility. Understanding these cultural fundamentals is essential for building sustainable, productive partnerships in Japan. 1. Consensus Over Speed Japanese organisations prioritise consensus and risk management  over

When working with Japanese companies, meetings are not just places to exchange information — they are critical trust-building mechanisms . Many international firms underestimate this, leading to frustration, slow progress, or missed opportunities. Understanding how meetings function in a Japanese business context can dramatically improve the chances of successful collaboration. 1. Meetings Are for Alignment, Not Debate In many Western business cultures, meetings are used to d

Japan remains one of the most important markets in today’s global economy. Despite discussions about its ageing population and slower growth compared to emerging markets, Japan is still the world’s third-largest economy, with unmatched stability, advanced infrastructure, and strong purchasing power. For international companies looking to expand, Japan provides both unique challenges and unparalleled opportunities. One of Japan’s key strengths lies in its culture of innovation