Doing Business with Japan 101
Event Overview:
This in-person seminar is designed for African executives, entrepreneurs, business leaders, and delegates visiting Japan during the TICAD week who want to better understand the Japanese business landscape. From cultural etiquette to investor expectations, this session will equip you with foundational knowledge on how to approach business collaboration with Japanese partners and institutions.
Registration Deadline: August 17th
Entrance: Free
Why Attend:
Japan is one of Africa’s largest bilateral and multilateral partners — but doing business with Japan requires more than just opportunity. It demands cultural fluency, patience, and local insight. This session offers a practical introduction to navigating the nuances of doing business with Japanese stakeholders, especially for African businesses seeking to build trust and long-term partnerships.
🗓️ Agenda:
10:30 AM – 10:40 AM
Welcome & Opening Remarks
• Overview of Africa–Japan business ties
• What this session aims to unpack
10:40 AM – 11:10 AM
Fireside Talk: “What Japan Expects in Business”
• Featuring African professionals working with Japanese corporations
• First-hand accounts of what builds trust (and what breaks it)
11:10 AM – 11:30 AM
Mini Workshop: “Pitching to Japanese Partners”
• Quick breakdown of effective communication and etiquette
• Real life scenarios and take-home tips
11:30 AM – 11:50 AM
Q&A and Group Exchange
• Bring your questions, share your experiences
11:50 AM – 12:00 PM
Closing & Next Steps
• Intro to Enkopa Lab
• Invitation to join Enkopa Lab’s network
• Info on upcoming TICAD-related business activities
12:00 PM – Networking
12:30 PM (Optional) – Visit to Tokyo Stock Exchange (JPX)
🎤 Featured Speaker
Bernard Laurendeau – Founder, Enkopa Lab
Bernard is the founder of Enkopa Lab, a Tokyo-based advisory firm helping Japanese companies succeed in African markets. He has spent the past 10 years working closely with Japanese partners, building cross-cultural business bridges and supporting market entry and localization efforts. With 15+ years of global consulting experience, he has advised Fortune 50 firms, led innovation across sectors, and worked at the intersection of policy, finance, and technology in both Africa and Japan.
Harry Clynch - Founder, Leopard PR
Harry Clynch is the founder at Leopard PR, a media advisory firm which connects innovative companies operating in Africa to the international media. Leopard PR has worked extensively with leading Japanese companies to enhance their media presence and brand awareness on the African continent – leveraging media strategy as a way to reach business leaders and investors, build credibility in Africa, and achieve enhanced commercial outcomes. Prior to founding Leopard PR, Harry worked as a business and financial journalist for prominent publications in Africa, Asia, and the UK.
Hiroyuki Itoh - Founder & President, Onebloom Corporation
Hiroyuki is the Founder & President of Onebloom Corporation, a Japan and Emerging Markets based emerging markets(growing Asia, Middle East, and Africa) business and management related top professional and advisory firm, leading Japanese corporations new business and value creations with the emerging markets and driving their vision and plan together toward sustainable in mid-long term and structurally strong and resilient with their corporate comprehensive values up and essential approach.
🌍 Hosted by Enkopa Lab
Enkopa Lab is a boutique advisory firm helping organizations expand into African markets with AI-powered data, expert advisory, and strategic insights.
We assist Japanese corporations, entrepreneurs, and investors looking to expand, venture or invest in Africa.
We provide the tools and networks needed for a seamless and impactful market entry.
Venue Details & Directions:
Location:FinGATE KAYABA, 1F Kayabacho 1-chome Heiwa Building, 1-8-1 Nihonbashi Kayabacho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo.
1-minute walkfromKayabacho Station(Tozai & Hibiya Lines)
4-minute walkfromNihonbashi Station(Ginza & Toei Asakusa Lines)
12-minute walkfromSuitengumae Station(Hanzomon Line)
The main venue, located on the first floor, facing Eitai-dori Street.