Japan’s small retailers gain global e-commerce platform presence

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The Japan External Trade Organisation is offering free international e-commerce site access to small-scale domestic retailers to help them sell products in 18 markets abroad.
The initiative is expected to bolster exports for small and medium-sized businesses, taking advantage of the global popularity of Japanese products as international online trade remains on course to reach US$994 billion next year – up from $530 billion two years ago.
Twenty four e-commerce sites, including Japan’s Rakuten; China’s Alibaba, Red and JD; and Singapore’s Redmart are signed up to participate in the program, featuring selected Japanese products on their platform without charging listing fees.
Walmart’s Seiyu and British retailer Ocado will bring Japanese products into markets outside of Asia.
Questions & Answers
Q.Which specific e-commerce platforms are involved in this initiative?
Which specific e-commerce platforms are involved in this initiative?
Twenty-four e-commerce sites are participating, including Japan’s Rakuten, China’s Alibaba, Red and JD, and Singapore’s Redmart. Also, Walmart’s Seiyu and British retailer Ocado are also involved.
Q.How does this initiative support small Japanese retailers directly?
How does this initiative support small Japanese retailers directly?
The Japan External Trade Organisation is providing small domestic retailers with free access to international e-commerce sites. This allows their selected products to be featured on platforms without incurring listing fees.
Q.What is the expected growth for international online trade mentioned in the article?
What is the expected growth for international online trade mentioned in the article?
International online trade is projected to reach US$994 billion next year. This represents a significant increase from the US$530 billion recorded two years ago, indicating strong market growth.
Q.Are there specific markets outside of Asia where Japanese products will be sold through this programme?
Are there specific markets outside of Asia where Japanese products will be sold through this programme?
Yes, Walmart’s Seiyu and British retailer Ocado are responsible for bringing Japanese products into markets outside of Asia. The overall initiative covers sales in 18 international markets.