Challenges & Motivations (Japanese market)
Challenges
Here are a few notes about the challenges one will face when doing business in Japan and, also, about the motivations which, sometimes, will help to better handle the challenges!
Very demanding country
Japan is an extremely demanding country. It is true not only for the quality but also regarding the support and the very high expectations Japanese have. Japanese will always want to improve products and services. Their expectations can naturally become much higher when buying products from non-Japanese manufacturers.
Words do not impress
Japanese peoples will trust words if they are backed by concrete facts. One concrete fact is much more valuable than hundred words in Japan.
“Language barrier”
The misconception that English could be understood and used locally (also for a classic PPT presentation) can lead to big disappointments and, even, a waste of time.
Motivations
Japan is the 3rd biggest economy in the world and is known for its quality. This means, on one hand, that Japan is a very competitive market but, on the other hand, this also means opportunities for innovative products.
The technical level is very high and Japanese are eager for “high-tech” products.
A development strategy based on a long term commitment will also be seen as an asset.