FAQ

June 13, 2022

What laws govern contracts in Japan?

Japan does not have a separate code of law for contracts to determine what laws govern contracts in Japan. Instead, contract law is governed by various laws contained in the Civil Code, the law of torts, the law of property, the law of succession and family law. While these codes contain the basic rules governing contract formation and execution in Japan, special rules relating to contracts between merchants are contained in the Commercial Code. Furthermore there are many other laws relating to protection of consumers and regulation of business operators.
June 10, 2022

Representative Office or Branch Office

The choice between a representative office or branch office is important to understand before making the decision to establish a base of operations in Japan. Establishing a Representative Office is perhaps the simplest way to establish your company’s presence in Japan. A Representative Office allows a foreign company to conduct market surveys, collect information, purchase goods and conduct PR campaigns. However, Representative Offices are not allowed to engage in sales activities. Forming a Representative Office does not require registration but many aspects of business, such as opening a bank account or renting office space, must be conducted by the head […]
June 10, 2022

Establish a subsidiary in Japan

There are several choices for foreign companies wishing to establish a subsidiary in Japan: 1. Establishment of a Subsidiary Company 2. Establishment of a Branch Office 3. Registration of a Representative Office. If you are planning on conducting business in Japan, the best choice is often the Joint-Stock Corporation (Kabushiki Kaisha). Kabushiki Kaisha are publicly traded companies and hence, the representative need not be a member of the Kabushiki Kaisha. The liability of members is limited to their contributions in capital, and transfers of shares may be made freely, notwithstanding restrictions in the Articles of Incorporation.
June 9, 2022

International Inheritance in Japan

International inheritance in Japan can be a very difficult process to navigate. Generally, inheritance procedures in Japan are subject to the law’s of the deceased person’s home country. However, Japanese laws may apply in exceptional cases.