Doing business across India & Japan

The unwritten rules, etiquette, and practical know-how for working between the two countries.

Working with Japan — where trust is slow to build and lasts for decades.

Expect several meetings before any commitment. Patience and consistency matter more than a slick pitch.

Exchange business cards with both hands, read it, and place it carefully on the table — never in your back pocket.

Much is agreed before the meeting, one-on-one. Bring key people along early rather than surprising them.

Arrive early and over-prepare. Thorough, well-organised documents signal that you can be relied on.

Basic Japanese and a trusted bilingual partner open doors that English alone often cannot.