Turkish Companies Set Their Sights on Japan
Japan General Trade Delegation B2B Matchmaking Held in Tokyo
A business networking event, the Japan General Trade Delegation B2B Matchmaking, which brought together Turkish companies aiming to expand into the Japanese market, was held on December 9, 2025, at Hotel New Otani Tokyo.
The event featured a diverse group of Turkish companies from the food, textile, and industrial sectors, creating a platform for B2B meetings with Japanese companies to explore new business opportunities.
Organized by the Türkiye Exporters Assembly (TİM) under the coordination of the Ministry of Trade of the Republic of Türkiye, the event gathered Turkish companies seeking to strengthen their presence in Japan alongside Japanese importers, distributors, and industry professionals. Throughout the day, the venue was filled with active discussions and dynamic networking.
A Day of Active Business Engagement
The program began at 10:00 a.m. with opening remarks and presentations by the organizers, followed by B2B meetings with Japanese companies. After a networking lunch, business discussions continued into the afternoon, with concrete negotiations taking place throughout the day.
TİM, Driving Force Behind Türkiye’s Exports
The event was led by the Türkiye Exporters Assembly (TİM), the highest representative body of Türkiye’s export sector. Representing approximately 150,000 companies across 27 sectors and 61 exporters’ associations, TİM plays a central role in shaping the country’s export strategy.
Tracing its origins back to 1937 and formally established in 1993, TİM has been instrumental in promoting exports, diversifying markets, and strengthening international competitiveness. Working closely with government institutions, the organization supports innovation, fosters startups, and develops overseas markets. Its global activities include partnerships with chambers of commerce and trade organizations worldwide, with the Tokyo event forming part of these ongoing international initiatives.
Diverse Participation Across Key Industries
The delegation included 10 companies from the food sector, 4 from textiles, apparel, and carpets, and 1 from the industrial sector.
In the food category, a wide range of products representing Türkiye’s rich culinary culture was showcased, including hazelnut spreads, peanut butter, olive oil, canned foods, hummus, seasonings, spices, dried fruits, and frozen fruits. Additional offerings, such as paprika powder, confectionery ingredients, molasses, and nuts, were also introduced, along with seafood products such as trout and salmon, all of which have strong potential for the Japanese market.
In the textile and apparel sector, Türkiye’s globally recognized products, including towels, bathrobes, textile materials, carpets, and area rugs, attracted strong interest from Japanese companies, highlighting the high quality of Turkish textiles.
From the industrial sector, a company specializing in AI, IoT solutions, and smart manufacturing participated, exploring potential collaboration in digital transformation fields.
Productive B2B Meetings with Japanese Companies
Throughout the event, Turkish companies held one-on-one meetings with Japanese importers, food companies, and distributors. They presented their products’ strengths, quality standards, and supply capabilities while exploring opportunities for entering the Japanese market.
While Japan is known for its high standards in quality and reliability, it is also a market where companies offering exceptional products and consistent supply can establish long-term, trusted relationships. The event provided a valuable opportunity for both sides to connect directly and deepen mutual understanding.
Expanding Opportunities Through Cross-Border E-commerce
In conjunction with the delegation, TİM also organized a Japan-focused e-commerce business mission in Tokyo from December 8 to 12, 2025, in coordination with the Ministry of Trade of the Republic of Türkiye.
The program included meetings and site visits with major e-commerce platforms such as Rakuten, Amazon Japan, and Yahoo Shopping, as well as industry associations, logistics companies, and payment service providers. These activities offered Turkish companies valuable insights into Japan’s digital commerce ecosystem and market environment.
Cross-border e-commerce is gaining attention as an effective entry point into the Japanese market, becoming an increasingly important channel for enhancing brand visibility and expanding sales opportunities.
Strengthening Business Ties Between Japan and Türkiye
Japan and Türkiye have maintained friendly relations for a long time, and in recent years, economic exchanges have grown across various sectors, including food, textiles, and digital business.
This trade delegation mission and B2B matchmaking event marked a significant step for Turkish companies aiming to enter the Japanese market and helped advance bilateral business relations.
Through ongoing engagement and collaboration, new business opportunities and products connecting Japan and Türkiye are expected to emerge in the coming years.
