Starting an international business: 7 tips for e-commerce in 2025

The international business landscape constantly evolves, shaped by technological advancements and shifting consumer preferences. With online shopping remaining a constant habit among consumers, e-commerce continues to open doors for businesses to connect with customers across the globe. As such, the new year promises exciting opportunities for businesses to tap into new international markets and leverage the growing global demand for Japanese goods.

If you're setting up an e-commerce company in Japan, navigating this dynamic environment presents a unique set of opportunities to innovate and expand your reach. This blog provides practical guidance on how to start a resilient and innovative international export business, equipping you with the knowledge and strategies to thrive in the global marketplace.

Export opportunities for businesses in Japan

The international market presents several enticing opportunities for you to grow and expand your business:

• Favorable exchange rates: The current volatility in exchange rates can work to your advantage when exporting¹. A weaker yen makes Japanese products more affordable for overseas buyers, potentially boosting your sales and competitiveness in international markets.
• Growing international demand: With rising global demand for high-quality Japanese goods, particularly in categories like electronics, beauty products, and traditional crafts, exporting these products can significantly expand your market reach and unlock new revenue streams.

By seizing these opportunities and venturing into international markets, you can unlock a wealth of benefits for your e-commerce business:

• Expanded revenue streams: Branching out into international markets allows you to diversify your revenue streams and reduce reliance on the domestic market, providing greater financial stability and resilience against economic fluctuations.
• Enhanced business agility: Diversifying your customer base and operations in new markets can make you more agile and adaptable to change. In turn, you become less susceptible to fluctuations in any single market.
• Increased innovation: Exposure to new markets and customer preferences can drive innovation and encourage you to develop new export products and services that cater to the needs of customers outside Japan.
• Global brand recognition: Exporting your products from Japan to international markets can enhance your brand's visibility and reputation on a global scale. Establishing your presence in overseas markets can increase brand awareness and recognition, attract new customers, and strengthen your brand image.

7 tips for international e-commerce business success

1. Build a resilient business model

Agility and adaptability are crucial for success in the modern business environment. To build a resilient e-commerce business model, consider diversifying your product and service offerings to explore multiple revenue streams and mitigate potential export challenges. 

For example, if you're currently selling electronics, consider expanding into related categories like accessories or software. By doing so, you broaden your customer base and create a buffer against fluctuations in any single product category.

Additionally, before you start building your own website from scratch, consider leveraging online marketplaces like Amazon or eBay to keep costs low and reach a wider audience. These platforms offer established infrastructure and a large customer base, providing valuable opportunities for growth and diversification.

2. Know the international export basics

Familiarize yourself with the fundamentals of international shipping from Japan. This includes understanding import regulations in various countries, commodity classifications, international shipping rates, the paperwork required for customs clearance, and proper product packaging for international transit. 

Mastering these basics ensures compliance with regulations, enabling your products to arrive safely and on time. These efforts are necessary to meet customer expectations and facilitate a smooth export process. 

You can also tap on international business support systems, such as the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) and the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO). For instance, JETRO provides access to expert consultations, international mentors, and accelerators, which can help you in your overseas expansion efforts.

Additionally, consider partnering with shipping and logistics experts who can provide valuable support in navigating these complexities. With their support, you can also free up your capacity to focus on the day-to-day demands of running your business.

3. Foster cross-cultural understanding

Cultural sensitivity and awareness are paramount when conducting business across borders. Understanding the nuances of different cultures, customs, and communication styles can help you build stronger relationships with international partners and customers. 

When selecting target markets, consider cultural factors that may influence demand for your offerings by researching consumer trends and preferences in different regions. Doing so can help you identify potential opportunities and tailor your product range accordingly.

For example, if you're an anime and manga merchandiser shipping from Japan to Singapore, you might want to consider the popularity of specific series or characters in the market. This could provide insights on the related merchandise, such as figurines, apparel, or collectibles, that would sell well. 

In turn, your awareness of the preferences of Singaporean consumers could also help you adapt your communication and marketing materials accordingly. This demonstrates respect and fosters trust, leading to more successful business interactions.

4. Leverage technology and automation

Technology and automation can significantly enhance the efficiency and productivity of your e-commerce business. Instead of manually handling repetitive tasks, embrace tools and platforms that automate processes, freeing up your time and resources to focus on more strategic initiatives.

For instance, AI-powered chatbots can handle customer inquiries and provide instant support, improving response times and freeing up your customer service team to focus on more complex issues. Additionally, consider using machine learning tools to automate inventory management and order fulfillment. By predicting demand and optimizing your stock levels, you can significantly reduce costs and avoid stockouts or overstocking.

5. Build a robust online presence

A strong online presence is essential for any e-commerce business. Invest in creating a user-friendly website, establish active social media profiles, and leverage a robust e-commerce platform.

Furthermore, you’ll want to ensure you reach the right audiences. For instance, optimizing your website with relevant keywords can improve your search engine rankings and attract organic traffic. Additionally, efforts to engage your audience on social media, such as by responding to comments or hosting giveaways, can create a strong community around your brand.

With a compelling online presence, you’re more likely to attract customers, drive sales, and enhance your brand's reputation in the global market.

6. Focus on customer experience 

To truly capture and retain customers, you need to understand their needs. Consider leveraging technology and data analytics to help you better understand their preferences, behaviors, and pain points. This data-driven approach lets you personalize your offerings and tailor your marketing efforts to individual needs. 

Moreover, AI and machine learning can enhance this personalization through product recommendations, targeted advertising, and customer support interactions. By providing a customized experience, you can create a stronger connection with your customers and foster a sense of loyalty. 

Lastly, smooth and customized delivery options is key to wrapping up a positive e-commerce customer experience. Flexible delivery methods, such as express shipping, carbon neutral shipping, or alternative delivery locations, allows customers to choose the option that best suits their needs.

7. Prioritize sustainability

Consumers are increasingly eco-conscious, demonstrating a growing demand for sustainable and ethically sourced products and services. According to the DHL 2024 Online Purchasing Behaviour Report, up to 77% of shoppers cited sustainability as an important factor when buying online.

These trends reflect consumer preferences for brands with environmentally friendly practices. As such, incorporating sustainable practices into your business operations is more critical than ever. Reducing waste, using renewable packaging materials, and minimizing your carbon footprint are crucial steps towards becoming a sustainable business. 

These efforts resonate with customers' concerns and can help you retain their support, contributing to long-term success. For example, you can partner with shipping companies, such as DHL Express, that offer carbon-neutral delivery options to put your sustainability goals into action.

How DHL Express supports your business journey

The right business partners play a huge role in streamlining operations and facilitating growth, especially when venturing into new markets. Reach beyond Japan’s borders confidently with a reliable logistics and shipping partner like DHL Express.

Our comprehensive range of end-to-end solutions is designed to support businesses in Japan throughout their international shipping journey. From customs clearance and documentation assistance to efficient shipping networks and robust shipment tracking tools, we simplify the process and provide the resources and expertise you need to navigate global trade. With our extensive international experience and deep understanding of local regulations, you can expand into global markets with ease.

Moreover, if you’re looking for ways to meet your sustainability goals, our GoGreen Plus solution can help you reduce the emissions associated with your shipping operations, making tangible change through your business practices.

Unlocking your global potential: Start an e-commerce business with confidence

With a sound business model and a robust logistics strategy in place, you can be well-prepared to open an e-commerce business that successfully capitalizes on global export opportunities. On top of that, partnering with a reliable logistics provider like DHL Express can further enhance your international export ventures through streamlined shipping processes, reduced costs, and improved customer satisfaction.

Open a business account with DHL Express and take the first step towards fulfilling your global entrepreneurial dreams today.