Cultural differences play a decisive role in doing business with Japan. Japan places great value on politeness, patience and respect. Business decisions in Japan are usually made through lengthy in-house consensus procedures. Moreover, negotiations can take longer because linguistic peculiarities might slow down the communication. A simple “Yes!” (jap.: Hai), for example, often only means “We are listening” – but this is far from being an agreement yet.

Punctuality, appropriate dress and commitment must always be observed, and it is customary to give the business partner a gift – we tell you which one is appropriate!

It is undeniable that excellent intercultural preparation is an essential prerequisite for your success when working with Japanese business partners.