Japan
Tokyo's corporate lending market is dominated by relationship banking, where established ties with a house bank often matter as much as the numbers on a balance sheet. Foreign owned companies and newer businesses without such relationships typically find international banks or specialist lenders a more practical starting point.
| Structure | Where it works |
|---|---|
| Bank term loan | Best pricing available to companies with an established relationship and trading history in Japan. |
| Venture debt | Growing option for technology companies alongside equity funding rounds. |
| Commercial mortgage | Available for owner occupied and investment property, priced conservatively. |
| Trade finance | Supports import and export activity for manufacturers and trading companies. |
Building a relationship with a Japanese bank takes time, so newer entrants often start with international banks operating in Tokyo.
Japanese language documentation is generally required for domestic bank applications, adding a translation step for foreign owned companies.
Facilities typically take six to twelve weeks with domestic banks, faster with international or specialist lenders.
It is more straightforward through international banks with a Tokyo presence, since domestic banks often prioritise established local relationships. Building a trading history in Japan helps considerably over time.
Very important for accessing the best pricing and terms, as many Japanese companies maintain a primary bank relationship spanning years or decades.
It has grown considerably in recent years and is now a recognised complement to equity funding for technology companies with institutional investors.
Tell us what the business in Tokyo needs and we will structure the request and approach the providers whose criteria match. No upfront fees, charges apply only once funding completes.
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