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Kota Ikeda

Consultant / Certified Administrative Procedures Legal Specialist

Understanding MIPRO（Manufactured Imports and Investment Promotion Organization) in Japan

July 13, 2023

MIPRO Explained:

Understanding MIPRO

MIPRO stands for Manufactured Imports and Investment Promotion Organization. It is an incorporated foundation operating under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry in Japan. The primary objective of MIPRO, established in 1978, is to promote imports from foreign countries into Japan. The organization is a public-interest corporation aiming to increase the variety of imported products available in the Japanese market, facilitate the dissemination of foreign-made products in Japan, and contribute to generating a trade surplus.

Business Activities of MIPRO

MIPRO engages in two major business activities. Support of Import Business and Investment in Japan and support of Small-lot Import Business. Apart from import business and investment support, MIPRO is also involved in other initiatives related to intellectual property rights and product safety. Additionally, the organization undertakes support projects for developing countries.

Support of Import Business and Investment in Japan:

The primary goal of this activity is to encourage business development that attracts foreign capital into Japan and stimulates economic growth, including in local regions. To achieve this, MIPRO organizes exhibitions and trade fairs, provides information related to imports and investments, introduces industries and cultures from foreign countries, and hosts various exchange events. These initiatives are designed to create connections between Japanese companies and foreign counterparts, thereby increasing the volume of product imports.

Support of Small-lot Import Business:

As part of its Japan access support business, MIPRO offers assistance to individuals, small- and medium-sized wholesalers, and retailers who seek to initiate or expand their import business, with a focus on small-lot imports. MIPRO recognizes the importance of bringing foreign capital into various regions of Japan and, therefore, strengthens its support for small-lot imports targeting these regions.