What support exists for foreign companies investing in Japan?
The Japan External Trade Organization provides information and practical support services to foreign companies setting up or expanding in Japan, covering topics such as market research, regulation and business setup procedures. Its services are informational and supportive rather than a substitute for legal or tax advice.
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How it works
A foreign company can approach the organization's offices in Japan or abroad for guidance on sector-specific regulation, incorporation procedures and introductions to relevant contacts. Certain investments may also fall under notification requirements administered separately by financial and industry regulators.
Commonly mixed up with
Support services from a trade promotion organization are sometimes assumed to include legal representation. The organization provides information and referrals, and formal legal, tax and regulatory work is handled by licensed professionals.
What support exists for foreign companies investing in Japan?
| Knowledge, Tokyo | Business and finance |
|---|---|
| Short answer | The Japan External Trade Organization provides information and practical support services to foreign companies setting up or expanding in Japan, covering topics such as market research, regulation and business setup procedures. Its services are informational and supportive rather than a substitute for legal or tax advice. |
| How it works | A foreign company can approach the organization's offices in Japan or abroad for guidance on sector-specific regulation, incorporation procedures and introductions to relevant contacts. Certain investments may also fall under notification requirements administered separately by financial and industry regulators. |
| Commonly mixed up with | Support services from a trade promotion organization are sometimes assumed to include legal representation. The organization provides information and referrals, and formal legal, tax and regulatory work is handled by licensed professionals. |
| Last reviewed | 2026-08-08 |
Short questions
- Is the support free of charge?
- Core information services are generally provided without charge, though this should be confirmed with the organization.
- Does foreign investment require prior notification?
- Certain sectors and investment types are subject to notification requirements under Japanese law.
- Can the organization help with incorporation paperwork?
- It provides guidance and referrals, though filings are made through the relevant registries.
- Does it cover specific industries?
- It publishes sector-specific information relevant to different industries.
- Where can I find current programmes?
- The Japan External Trade Organization publishes its current services for investors.
Sources
More in this track
- What is the difference between a KK and a GK company in Japan?
- What are the main steps to incorporate a company in Japan?
- Should a foreign company open a branch or a subsidiary in Japan?
- When does a business have to register for Japanese consumption tax?
- How does corporate tax work for a company in Japan?
- What must an employer set up before hiring staff in Japan?
- What is Japan's qualified invoice system for consumption tax?
- What should a new business know about office space in Tokyo?
- What business support does the Tokyo Metropolitan Government provide?
These pages explain how the rules work and link the authority that owns them. They are not legal, tax or immigration advice, and amounts and thresholds change, so open the source before you act.
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