What are the benefits of introducing "hands-off trade" to accelerate entry into the African market, and what are the keys to solving the challenges?Fuji Chemi Trading Co., Ltd.
Fuji Chemi Trading Co., Ltd., which handles the import and export of chemical products and industrial machinery, faced challenges in logistics and business practices, particularly in its expansion into the African market, as it pursued its global business development. To address these challenges, they introduced STANDAGE's "Omakase Trading" system, accelerating operational efficiency and market development.
Could you tell us what led you to introduce STANDAGE's automated trading service this time?
We at Fuji Chemi Trading have been conducting business both domestically and internationally as a specialized trading company in the chemical sector. Until now, we had avoided expanding into the African and Middle Eastern markets, but we recognized that there were new business opportunities there. However, the reality was that we were unable to take the plunge due to a lack of local information and a lack of business network.
That's when I was introduced to STANDAGE's trade agency service, "Omakase Trading," and I was particularly attracted to its support for expanding into the African market. I thought that receiving support for trade shows, especially in Nigeria, would accelerate the promotion of our products for the African market, so I decided to implement it.
What exactly did it entail?
Since implementing the system, the aspect we've found most valuable is the "real-time, on-the-ground information" that STANDAGE provides. Especially in Africa, where internet access is limited, directly understanding the local situation is crucial. The accurate information STANDAGE provides about markets we haven't yet explored is extremely valuable.
Furthermore, thanks to STANDAGE's quick arrangements, we were able to exhibit our products at the Lagos Fair last November. The fact that we were able to smoothly achieve something we couldn't have done on our own, thanks to their support, is a significant accomplishment.
What results have you achieved since implementing it?
Since it has only been about five months since implementation, it may take some time before we can talk about concrete results. However, there has been significant progress in streamlining operations. We have been able to obtain information about the African market, which was previously out of our reach, and we feel that there are signs of further expansion in the future. In addition, being able to exhibit at trade shows has increased opportunities to introduce our products directly to locals, and we feel that we have taken a step towards expanding our sales channels.
Although business hasn't started yet, the peace of mind knowing that STANDAGE will support us in the upcoming transactions is a very important factor. In particular, the fact that STANDAGE will act as an intermediary when determining payment terms with local companies, which helps reduce risk, is a major advantage.
What kind of support do you expect from Omakase Trading in the future?
STANDAGE's "Leave-it-to-us Trading" service is extremely useful and a reliable partner for our business. Although we are still in the early stages, we see potential in new markets, and we are particularly excited about expanding into the African market. We intend to utilize STANDAGE's support to enter markets that were previously difficult to access and to create concrete business opportunities.
In addition to improving efficiency through the use of cloud systems, we hope to build a collaborative relationship where both parties can experience mutual growth by sharing local market information and insights. We will continue to deepen our partnership with STANDAGE and create new value together.
