U.S.-Japan Trade

What most Americans don’t realize is that Japan’s markets are wide open. Arrogant CEOs who are too proud to learn how to do business the Japanese way are the only ones claiming the markets are closed.

I work for a Japanese government organization that promotes trade between Japan and the United States. It is apparent that the Japanese government has recently thrown a ton of money into promoting U.S. exports. The Japanese are doing all they can to accommodate import products that would be useful to them.

My suggestion to American exporters: First, ask any Japanese whether or not they think the product might sell in Japan (i.e., do some market research) and second, take some time to learn about their business procedures and customs. It’s not as difficult as many imagine.

HIROMI IWASE, Los Angeles