Book a Discovery Call
Hero background

Helping international brands grow in Japan

At ABC, we offer consulting, import support, and logistics services for brands looking to enter or scale in the Japanese market with clarity and control.

Book a Discovery Call

Trusted by global brands

  • Erat Sense
  • Dr fischer
  • Evolve organic beauty

20+

Years of experience

3k+

Unique SKUs handled

About ABC

About A Better Communication (ABC)

A Better Communication (ABC) helps international brands enter and grow in Japan through expert consulting, structured import support, and reliable logistics.

Japan is a high-opportunity market, but it can be difficult to navigate without local knowledge. Regulations, product requirements, and buyer expectations can slow progress quickly if they aren’t handled correctly from the start, without mentioning the language and mentality barriers.

ABC exists to make that process simpler and easier. We support brands with clear direction, hands-on execution, and smooth communication between international teams and Japanese partners.

Book a Discovery Call

What we do

ABC provides practical support across three core service areas.

Book a Discovery Call

Consulting

Consulting helps you plan your Japan entry or improve an existing operation, with work on strategy as well as hands-on tactics.

  • Strategy
  • Positioning
  • Execution

How we work

ABC helps international brands grow in Japan by combining clear consulting for various unique opportunities and challenges each brand presents, with practical import, logistics and after care.

Our process is designed to reduce delays, prevent avoidable issues, and make Japan operations run smoothly from the start. Whether you already have sales in Japan or you are still searching for your first buyer, we will find a suitable solution to meet your goals.

We focus on what matters most in Japan: preparation, market positioning, compliance, timing, and reliable delivery.

Book a Discovery Call
01.

Product Definition

We begin by understanding your product in full detail and confirming how it should be defined for Japan. Product definition impacts compliance requirements, paperwork, and whether additional steps are needed before import.

We can help you choose the correct pricing and find out the competition and the size of the market for your brand. In some cases you might find out the time and original idea would work better with suitable correction.

02.

Requirements and Import Readiness

Once the product is defined, we confirm what is required for your specific category. In some products a laboratory test is needed, and in others packaging check. Once confirmed, the labelling requirement is defined, testing workflows are created, we take the registration steps and take out the licenses when needed.

If samples are needed for laboratory check or package compliance, we review them and coordinate any required checks before full shipment. We also support documentation preparation for various procedures so the import process is handled properly.

03.

Import and Customs Coordination

Once the product is ready for import, ABC supports the import workflow from pickup and forward by sea or air to customs coordination. This ensures your goods enter Japan correctly and without unnecessary delays. We have an outstanding import score which allows us a smooth and quick action when entering Japan.

04.

Logistics, Storage, and Fulfilment

After clearance, ABC supports the operational setup inside Japan. We will safely deliver your goods directly to the client or to our mid term logistic centre for further process. This can include warehousing, labelling, repacking, fulfilment, shipping, inventory reporting, and integration with various systems depending on your needs.

05.

Market Entry, Market Research, Pop up Sales, Exhibitions

If you are still new to Japan and want to find out how your brand will perform and be accepted, we have a few solutions that can help you get a better understanding of the opportunity. We can research the market for you, adding valuable insight to the size of the market and the competition.

We can enter a local exhibition with/for you, and follow up to find a suitable distribution, or present your brand in local pop ups, letting Japanese customers see, touch and purchase your product without you stepping in Japan. We also help build the strategy according to the desired outcome, budget and timing to ensure a successful market entry.

Why work with ABC

Why work with ABC

ABC is a boutique, diversified team, composed of members from different cultures and backgrounds, that works closely with a select group of clients. This allows us to stay responsive, move quickly, and deliver high-quality outcomes, solving challenges as they come.

We focus on the details that protect your precious time, your budget, and your reputation in Japan, while making the work fun and hassle free.

Book a Discovery Call
Why work with ABC

  • 20

  • 3k

  • 100

  • Years of experience guiding brands

  • Unique SKUs handled

  • Brands successfully imported to Japan

Why work with ABC Why work with ABC

Who we work with

ABC supports international brands that want Japan to become a serious growth market. We work best with teams who want a structured plan with flexibility and quick action, reliable and clear execution, and a long-term operational setup inside Japan.

If you want to reduce uncertainty, avoid expensive delays, and build stable operations in Japan, ABC provides the guidance and support to help you move forward confidently, with a true partner in the field.

Book a Discovery Call

Product categories we support

ABC supports brands across a range of categories, including cosmetics and beauty products that require a special license in Japan, food and beverage, daily goods, and regulated product types. Each category has different expectations in Japan, and ABC helps you handle them correctly with ease and in your language.

Global clients, Japan-focused support

ABC works with companies worldwide, including brands based in the UK, Europe, the US, and Israel. Regardless of where your team is located, ABC’s team and partners are based in and outside of Japan, which helps support the process inside Japan so you can enter the market with more control and clarity.

Who ABC is best for

ABC is best for brands who want a boutique partner and prefer working with specialists rather than a generic provider. We help businesses that value detail, responsiveness, and smooth communication across international stakeholders. We are aware that each and every business has its unique structure and culture and so requires a bespoke solution, that we are proud of finding out together and help executing it smoothly.

Japan market Q&A

  • Do foreign brands need to adapt their products or brand for the Japanese market?

  • What are the biggest mistakes foreign companies make when entering Japan?

  • What is the very first step a foreign brand should take before trying to enter Japan?

  • How can foreign brands reduce risk when entering a complex market like Japan?

  • What is the real value of working with a local partner when entering Japan?

  • Why do many successful international brands fail when they enter Japan?

For over two decades, ABC has supported brands import from the UK, US, Europe, Israel, Australia & beyond into Japan's thriving market.

UK USA EUROPE Israel Australia

+
more

We partner closely with select brands, blending hands-on guidance with experienced know-how to unlock Japan’s potential, transforming complex challenges into seamless success, one trusted relationship at a time. Our boutique approach ensures you navigating regulations, cultural nuances, and logistics with finesse earned serving global clients.

Book a Discovery Call
UK USA EUROPE Israel Australia

+
more

20+

Years of experience
guiding brands

3k+

Unique SKUs
handled

100+

Brands successfully
imported to Japan

95%

Client retention
partnership rate

What sets us apart

What sets us apart

ABC is a boutique consultancy that supports international brands operating in Japan with care, precision, and long-term commitment.

We work closely with a small number of clients so we can stay responsive, take ownership of complex challenges, and deliver outcomes that protect your business in Japan.

Book a Discovery Call

Licensed cosmetics importer in Japan

Japan is one of the only countries in the world that requires a specific licence to import cosmetics. ABC holds this licence and has deep experience handling the strict compliance processes required for cosmetics and other regulated categories.

Exceptional client retention

ABC maintains long-term partnerships with its clients. Brands continue working with ABC because problems are solved properly, operations run smoothly, and support remains consistent as the business grows.

Hands-on, end-to-end support

ABC takes full responsibility for the import and operational process in Japan. From defining products correctly and managing customs, to ensuring reasonable tax handling and compliance, ABC works through each challenge carefully and lawfully so clients don’t have to worry about the details.

Our success stories with clients

  • Scaling Dr. Fischer’s growth in Japan through trusted local partnership

    Dr. Fischer partnered with us to navigate Japan’s complex market with confidence. From securing a reliable importer to managing logistics, marketing, and local connections, we supported every step. The result: steady brand growth, expansion into clinics and pharmacies, and a flexible, responsive partnership that continues to drive success.

  • Overcoming Japan’s challenges with reliable local support

    When Paladin Knight expanded to Japan, they faced language barriers and trust issues finding dependable partners. Our team bridged that gap with constant reliability, logistics support, and hands-on assistance. CEO Zachary Castle credits us as a key ally who turned Japan’s challenges into smooth operations.

  • Turning market barriers into growth for coffee brand expanding into Japan

    Rosso Caffe faced complex import rules and logistics challenges entering Japan. With our deep local expertise, we cleared every regulatory hurdle, built a smooth supply chain, and enabled fast market entry. Today, Rosso Caffe leads coffee capsule sales on Amazon Japan—proof of how the right partner turns obstacles into growth.

  • Testimonial Background

    Client testimonial

    “Professional, friendly, and highly responsive. Your team is available, proactive, and supportive, addressing every challenge, from small day-to-day issues to more complex situations. In addition, the warehouse and fulfillment services you provide are a key part of our day-to-day operations, helping us maintain a reliable supply and smooth ongoing activity in Japan.”

    Reli Yosef & Odelya Stern

    Dr. Fischer

  • Testimonial Background

    Client testimonial

    “It has been positive. Once I could remove the middle person (my translator) and communicate directly with your staff, it has been very efficient. You guys are lovely people, and I enjoy that. I can also separate my personal feelings from business. I am confident if I had some business issue in Japan, you could assist and help resolve, but of course it comes with a price”

    Zachary Castle

    Paladin Knight

  • Testimonial Background

    Client testimonial

    “ABC has been our logistics and market entry partner for over five years, and honestly, without them we would not have been able to enter—let alone succeed—in the Japanese market. Every shipment has been handled smoothly and efficiently. Their management, regulatory handling, logistics, communication, timelines, and cost control are all at the highest level.”

    Yehuda Itzhaki

    Rosso Cafe

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

  • What is A Better Communication (ABC)?

    A Better Communication (ABC) is a team of Japan market specialists supporting international brands growth with consulting, import services, and logistics inside Japan.

  • What services does ABC offer?

    ABC offers Japan market consulting, Japan import support, and Japan logistics and fulfilment services. All for the purpose of growing your brand awareness and sales in Japan.

  • Do you only support businesses outside Japan?

    ABC mainly supports international brands entering Japan, but we also work with companies already operating in Japan, improving their operation with our bi-lingual consulting and local partners and services.

  • What are the challenges when expanding to Japan?

    Japan can be complex due to strict compliance standards, very specific import rules, and high expectations around delivery and reliability, in addition to differences in language and business common sense.

  • Can ABC support us long-term after launch?

    Yes, ABC aims to support long-term growth in Japan through ongoing import, suitable logistics support and consulting when needed. Some of our clients, though, have reached a growth stage where they shifted to a complete in- house process and didn’t need our direct services. We were happy to see them go and we are still in contact, sharing knowledge and referrals.

  • Do you work with multiple product categories?

    Yes, ABC supports multiple categories including cosmetics, which requires special license, food, beverage, daily goods, and other regulated product types. Some require registration and some are simpler.

  • What types of companies do you work with?

    ABC works with international brands that want to grow in Japan and need expert support and creative solutions across consulting, import, and logistics.

  • Do you work with cosmetics brands entering Japan?

    Yes, ABC supports cosmetics brands entering Japan and has extensive experience in that field. ABC has the licenses needed to complete the compliance steps needed for importing and selling cosmetics, including the needed tests, labelling, documentation and certifications.

  • Do you support food and beverage imports into Japan?

    Yes, ABC supports food and beverage imports into Japan, including testing and labelling, food import permits, documentation and preparation steps based on various category requirements. As well as tariff and taxes support.

  • Can ABC help businesses already operating in Japan?

    Yes, ABC supports businesses already in Japan by understanding and improving operations, finding and fixing communication issues, negotiations and strategy correction, and strengthening the import and logistics setup to achieve better costs and efficiency.

  • Do you work with UK, European, and US brands?

    Yes, ABC commonly supports UK, European, and US brands that are expanding into Japan. Our team is based in Japan as well as Europe which helps us with quicker response time to clients all over the globe.

  • Do you support regulated product categories?

    Yes, ABC supports regulated products where correct paperwork, testing, or preparation is required before import and sale. In some cases the category definitions are different across borders and necessary adjustments are needed.

  • How does ABC support brands entering Japan?

    ABC helps international brands grow in Japan by combining clear consulting for various unique opportunities and challenges each brand presents, with practical import, logistics and after care.

  • What is the first step to importing products into Japan?

    The first step to importing products into Japan is defining the product correctly and confirming the requirements for that category, as well as understanding the opportunity in the market.

  • Do all products need testing to be imported into Japan?

    Not all products need testing to be imported into Japan, but some categories require checks depending on safety and regulations. It can be a basic test or a laboratory examination.

  • Do we need Japanese labelling for our products?

    Japanese labelling may be required depending on the product category, and ABC supports labelling creation and preparation workflows to add it to the product when needed.

  • Can ABC support both import and fulfilment in Japan?

    Yes, ABC supports both import and fulfilment in Japan, including clearance, warehousing, and shipping operations, both B2B and B2C.

  • Can ABC help if our Japan operation is already running?

    Yes, ABC can help improve an existing Japan operation by identifying issues and strengthening the process, as well as find suitable partners and initiate local activities.

  • What is Japan market consulting?

    Japan market consulting helps international brands plan and execute growth in Japan with the right strategy, structure, and local insight. Starting with the planning and moving to execution.

  • Can ABC help us enter Japan for the first time?

    Yes, ABC helps brands enter Japan by advising on the right steps and supporting the process through consulting, import, and logistics. With options such as market research and real time Pop up sales.

  • Can ABC help us fix slow growth in Japan?

    Yes, ABC helps fix slow growth in Japan by identifying operational gaps, mentality differences, and by improving communication and execution.

  • Does ABC support go-to-market planning for Japan?

    Yes, ABC supports go-to-market planning for Japan including market readiness, brand positioning, channel planning, and overall strategy and detailed product import flow.

  • Can ABC support negotiation with Japanese partners?

    Yes, ABC supports negotiation with Japanese partners by helping align expectations, bridging the mentality gap and keep partnerships moving forward with win-win-win solutions.

  • Is consulting separate from import and logistics services?

    Consulting can be separate, but ABC often supports consulting alongside import and logistics for end-to-end delivery and smoother operation.

  • What is included in a Japan import service?

    ABC import support typically includes product definition according to the Japanese law, compliance planning that can be completely different from the country of origin, documentation guidance that will be in Japanese, coordination of required checks and lab examinations, and support through customs and the tax handling.

  • Can ABC help us import cosmetics into Japan?

    Yes, with the special needed license, ABC helps brands import cosmetics into Japan, by supporting the compliance and import process required for cosmetics.

  • Can ABC help us import food and beverages into Japan?

    Yes, ABC helps brands import food and beverage into Japan by supporting the required documentation and preparation steps, including communications with the quarantine office and the needed lab examinations.

  • How do we know if our product can be imported into Japan?

    To confirm if your product can be imported into Japan, ABC reviews the product category and checks Japan’s requirements before shipment. ABC will also share the relevant taxes applied so you can better evaluate your opportunity.

  • Do we need a Japanese company to import into Japan?

    Some categories require specific structures or compliance steps, and ABC can guide what is needed for your product. With cosmetics and food, a local Japanese importer is required, though in many other cases, ABC can support you being your own importer without having a local company.

  • Can ABC coordinate customs clearance in Japan?

    Yes, ABC supports customs clearance in Japan through coordination and compliance preparation, for shipments arriving both by air or sea.

  • What is included in Japan's logistics and fulfilment services?

    ABC provides Japan logistics and fulfilment services for international brands that need reliable storage, order processing, and delivery inside Japan controlled in their own language.

  • Can ABC store our products in Japan?

    Yes, ABC can store your products in Japan using logistics setups suited to your category and operational needs. With various options that fit your requirements and budget.

  • Can ABC handle labelling and repacking in Japan?

    Yes, ABC can handle the design, creation, labelling and repacking in Japan depending on what your product category requires.

  • Do you support both B2B and B2C fulfilment in Japan?

    Yes, ABC supports both B2B and B2C fulfilment in Japan including shipping workflows across Japan in a speedy and a reliable manner.

  • Can you support fulfilment for marketplaces like Amazon Japan?

    Yes, ABC can support fulfilment for marketplaces like Amazon Japan, Rakuten and more, depending on your operational setup and your goals.

  • How do we monitor stock levels in Japan?

    Stock levels in Japan are monitored through reporting and inventory tracking according to your needs. It can be with reports or real life views with a WMS or integration with your system.

Insights

Browse all Insights
  • Imports
    Importing Cosmetics into Japan: What Brands Need to Know

    10 Feb 2026

    Importing Cosmetics into Japan: What Brands Need to Know

    2:00 min read

    Read Post
  • Imports
    Importing Cosmetics into Japan: What Brands Need to Know

    10 Feb 2026

    Importing Cosmetics into Japan: What Brands Need to Know

    2:00 min read

    Read Post
  • Imports
    Importing Cosmetics into Japan: What Brands Need to Know

    10 Feb 2026

    Importing Cosmetics into Japan: What Brands Need to Know

    2:00 min read

    Read Post
  • Imports
    Importing Cosmetics into Japan: What Brands Need to Know

    10 Feb 2026

    Importing Cosmetics into Japan: What Brands Need to Know

    2:00 min read

    Read Post
  • Imports
    Importing Cosmetics into Japan: What Brands Need to Know

    10 Feb 2026

    Importing Cosmetics into Japan: What Brands Need to Know

    2:00 min read

    Read Post
  • Imports
    Importing Cosmetics into Japan: What Brands Need to Know

    10 Feb 2026

    Importing Cosmetics into Japan: What Brands Need to Know

    2:00 min read

    Read Post
Let's discuss Let's discuss Let's discuss Let's discuss Let's discuss Let's discuss Let's discuss Let's discuss Let's discuss Let's discuss
Ready to get started with ABC?

Let’s discuss your plans for Japan

Whether you are preparing to enter the Japanese market or looking to improve an existing operation, ABC provides clear guidance, practical support, and reliable execution inside Japan.

Book a Discovery Call