Japan has the world's second largest GNP and is the world's second largest market accounting for 60-70% of the economy of Asia. Japan is also one of the world’s most culturally distinct advanced societies and understanding it is key for success.

The Japanese approach to business involves tireless preparation and meticulous attention to detail. Foreign companies should do their best to match this, and have clear objectives and a well thought out strategy.

Formality and formal politeness are all important and observing the basics of etiquette is essential, namely the formal exchange of business cards.
Japanese companies are collective organisms, and decisions are made after an exhaustive period of information gathering, consultation and discussion. Business is relationship-based and relationships require time, patience and perseverance.
 
Being able to speak and do business in Japanese is always an advantage. When doing business in English, foreign businessmen should make the effort to learn some “courtesy” Japanese. Relevant printed information should be produced in Japanese and an interpreter, properly briefed, should be used at all important meetings.