Tokyo Government's Free Business Support Services for Non-Japanese

Tokyo Business Entry Point

Starting a business is always a risk and it may be especially daunting in Japan if you are unfamiliar with the legalities, logistics and language. This doesn't mean it is impossible or you shouldn't dive in, but where do you start?

The Bureau of Industrial and Labor Affairs launched Tokyo Business Entry Point on August 31st last year. This free service aims to help foreign companies establish themselves in Tokyo and acts as a resource for start-up companies. Through their network of organizations this service provides comprehensive information and support on both business matters to foreign firms and daily life of foreign nationals in Tokyo.

Tokyo Business Entry Point is often referred to as a 'one-stop portal' for business advice and needs. Offering support mainly for small- to medium-sized enterprises, business information is given on how to obtain approvals and licenses, as well as office leasing, exhibitor or trade association information, introduction to research institutes and referrals to other business professionals such as attorneys and accountants. Although Tokyo Business Entry Point does not fund new projects directly, they are able to direct supporting information from public funding bodies and public grants, as well as conduct business matching.

Information for foreign residents is on hand, including medical services that have multilingual practitioners and international educational institutions. Queries about housing and daily needs are taken and if necessary, referrals can be given for further consultations or services.

To use their services, firstly go to the Tokyo Business Entry Point website to fill in and submit an inquiry to the counseling service. You will receive a reply from them within three working days of submission. If your question is fairly straightforward you will receive some advice via e-mail. If you need to speak to a counselor in person you can make an appointment by e-mailing them. The services provided are available in English, Japanese, Mandarin and Cantonese.

Who can the service help? In short, anyone. From sole traders starting from scratch to established foreign affiliated companies wanting to enter the Japanese market. Professional consulting on issues such as tax and law will also be provided via teleconferencing. For those living outside of Tokyo counseling can be done via e-mail.

"Since the establishment of Tokyo Business Entry Point, we have received many enquiries regarding business and daily-life from the people of many countries," says business counselor, Dr. Xiaojian NI. "For example, some of them are successfully setting up their companies in Tokyo by using our information and assistance. Moreover, some of our clients are expanding their business together with local business partners we introduced."

With information available for no charge and support at hand, Tokyo Business Entry Point makes staying firmly in Tokyo and setting up a business an achievable goal.

Tokyo Business Entry Point
www.tokyo-business.jp

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