Entering the market in Japan

What to expect in Japan?

Cultural bridge: Throughout their stay, start-ups receive support from a local team that is familiar with both Swiss and Japanese cultures. They provide support with preparing for the camp and help to develop awareness of cultural differences.

Network of local experts and talent: The local team provides networking and introduction services, enabling start-ups to meet the most relevant potential business partners in Japan, such as tech firms, corporate venture, open innovation consortia and accelerators. Introductions made by Swissnex in Japan opens doors for dialogue.

Follow-up: A long-term relationship is key to establishing trust and to business development in Japan. This is why support is provided beyond the end of the camp to help consolidate business activities and cement relationships.

Learn more with Carlos Correa, Startup & Innovation Manager at Swissnex in Japan.

Why expand into Japan?
Japan is the 3rd largest economy in the world. Over recent years, the governmenthas been continually stepping up its efforts to attract start-ups and entrepreneurial talent from abroad. Its great credibility can be used as a springboard to achieve growth in areas such as ageing (HealthTech), sustainability (energy, infrastructure) and digital transformation.

What’s the Japanese market like?
At first glance, the Japanese market appears self-contained and hard to penetrate. But with the right partners, it can prove a lucrative market and an exciting place to forge R&D partnerships. Successful operations generally tend to lead to long-term partnerships.

What is the state of innovation?
Japan is committed to remaining at the cutting edge of innovation to maintain its economic dynamism and improve quality of life. To achieve these goals, not only the private sector, but also academia and the government have launched initiatives to support start-ups and talented young entrepreneurs.

How easy is it to find qualified employees and partners?
Japan’s education system is of very high quality. The recruitment of qualified workers is ideal for Swiss start-ups who wish to establish a local subsidiary. Engineers, scientists, doctors and manufacturers are all guaranteed to be of world class lever. Japanese are very keen to learn about international business cultures and can easily learn from new technological developments.

What are the advantages of Japan?
Like Switzerland, Japan enjoys good quality of life and high standards. In 2009, Switzerland concluded a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with Japan, underlining the strength of economic ties. Patents and trademarks are also respected in Japan which has one of the highest literacy rates and is one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world. New trends and technologies are frequently emerging, highlighting Japanese people’s curiosity.

What opportunities does Japan offer?
Opportunities include a market of 126 million people who expect high standards and trusted partners for long-term collaboration. Commercial success in Japan can provide a platform for further expansion in Asia.

What are the challenges?
Foreign start-ups may have to overcome challenges such as the language, corporate culture and psychological barriers. But with the right partner, this is easily achievable.