What kind of activities can a representative office perform in Japan?
A representative office can collect information, conduct market research, advertise and buy and store goods, etc. However, it cannot perform directly any business activities.★ Explanation ★
A representative office generally performs tasks with the purpose of preparing and supplementing for the actual, full-scale business activities the foreign enterprise will be performing in Japan. There is no need to register the establishment of a representative office in Japan.
A representative office may collect information, conduct market research and surveys, purchase and store goods, and implement publicity or advertising efforts, but are not permitted to engage in business activities. To be able to conduct business activities, one must establish either a branch office or incorporate a subsidiary company in Japan.