Leadership Insights

Winning in Japan: The German Way

10 min read

What does the Japanese market look like through the lens of German companies?

In this second instalment from our Winning in Japan insights series shared by international executives, we look at the contributing factors, approaches and practices that have enabled German businesses to thrive in Japan.

The Japan Market Opportunities and it's Perceptions

Japan, the only G7 country in Asia, presents significant opportunities for German enterprises. Executives consistently view Japan as a lower-risk market than China, citing its resilient economy, transparent governance, and legal infrastructure resembling Germany's.

Resilience and Similarities

Despite Japan's slow GDP growth, the country has shown economic resilience to global market shocks. Drawing parallels with Germany, both nations share a similar industrial structure characterised by a scarcity of natural resources but rich high-tech manufacturing capabilities.

Strategic Considerations

Strategic considerations for success in the Japanese market emphasise the importance of understanding and navigating challenges. It explores talent and leadership management strategies, providing a roadmap for companies seeking a foothold in Japan.

Learning, Benchmarking, and Collaboration

Executives from German companies regard Japan as a market for expansion and a source of learning, benchmarking, and potential collaboration.

Intellectual Property Landscape

A notable insight is that Japan poses fewer intellectual property challenges than most other Asia-Pacific markets, especially in sectors like automotive. This factor enhances the attractiveness of Japan for companies aiming to protect their innovations and technologies.

Japan will continue to be a challenging place to do business. Still, it remains a key global market, and companies that deal with the challenges positively and progressively will find significant opportunities to win.

Even though Japanese companies may be the dominant players in such markets, it is advantageous for partner companies and customers to have operations close to these Japanese headquarters’ decision-makers.

Vijay Deol Partner

Winning in Japan: The German Way

Read the importance of Japan as a market, its challenges, strategies for managing talent and leadership, and potential brand advantages for companies of different origins.

DOWNLOAD NOW

To learn more, please contact Vijay Deol, Industrial Partner at Odgers Berndtson Japan at vijay.deol@odgersberndtson.com or contact your local Odgers Berndtson contact here.

Stay up to date: Sign up here for our global newsletter OBSERVE, and receive the latest news in leadership and top talent, industry insights, and events directly to your inbox.