Interviews -
Market Entry

How temporary dispatch workers can help your business thrive in Japan’s market A key aspect of establishing a successful business in Japan is ensuring the right personnel are in place to support operations, particularly during the early stages. However, there may not be an immediate need to recruit full-time permanent employees. For companies not yet prepared to hire full-time staff, Japan’s dispatch (派遣, haken) system offers a flexible solution. The dispatch system provides access to specialized talent on a short-term basis without the long-term commitment associated with permanent hires. Whether assistance is needed in IT support, general affairs, accounting, or sales, dispatch workers can deliver critical expertise essential for successfully launching operations. Understanding the dispatch (haken) system in Japan Japan’s dispatch system allows companies to hire skilled workers from specialized agencies for specific roles temporarily. This flexibility is valuable during the initial phases of market entry or for projects requiring […]

Japan’s highly educated workforce, strategic location in Asia, and infrastructure make it an attractive base of operations for expanding internationally. However, underlying demographic shifts, labor market dynamics, and economic policies necessitate a strategic approach. Foreign investors, particularly from ASEAN countries, can benefit from Japan’s sophisticated market and its openness to international partnerships. Labor Market Challenges and Opportunities Japan faces a severe labor shortage, driven by its aging population and low birth rates. According to a 2024 survey by JETRO, the country’s declining population, particularly in regions like Tohoku, is contributing to a stagnating R&D workforce. Despite policy interventions, many regions are seeing accelerated population declines. This creates an interesting environment for international expansion—while the labor force is shrinking, companies that focus on automation, technology, and productivity improvements can help fill the gaps. Additionally, Gartner’s 2024 survey of Japanese firms reveals significant shortages in IT talent. Over 40% of surveyed companies […]

As Japan continues to evolve its economy, foreign investors have fresh opportunities to tap into one of Asia’s most sophisticated markets. With government reforms, innovative industries, and shifting consumer behaviors, the Japanese market holds promising potential, but there are also risks that savvy investors must carefully navigate. A Strong Push for Investment Japan is actively seeking foreign investment, as highlighted by a 2023 survey from the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO). The government’s Invest Japan initiatives, combined with policies encouraging innovation, are creating a favorable business climate. This is particularly visible in technology, manufacturing, and green energy sectors. Additional sectors that have seen growth over the past year include tourism-related services, which increased by 3.4%.  Overall, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Japan has seen substantial growth, jumping from ¥6 trillion in 2000 to ¥49.6 trillion in 2023. Raising Japan’s FDI target to ¥100 trillion by 2030. Furthermore, 60.6% of Asian […]