Gateway to Global Markets

The project helps Finnish and Estonian SMEs in the cosmetics and food industries start export activities to Japan and South Korea through cross-border e-commerce. We build networks, provide intercultural training, conduct market research, and develop local marketing strategies. Additionally, we digitize order-delivery processes, improve logistics strategies, and ensure sustainable supply chains.

Growth for SMEs from the Asian markets!

Project goals

The project aims to help SMEs expand to Japan and South Korea through cross-border e-commerce. We’ll support this by building valuable networks, offering intercultural training, conducting market research, localizing products, and developing effective marketing strategies.

We’ll also simplify and digitize the order-delivery process, including logistics strategies, sustainable supply chain management, and sales performance tracking.

With a digitized order system, tailored logistics strategy, and market entry plans, SMEs can expect increased exports, continuous sales growth, and new business agreements in these dynamic markets.

Get international growth through cross-border e-commerce with us!

Cross-border e-commerce offers SMEs the opportunity to expand their customer base and increase revenue without significant physical investments abroad. It opens doors to new markets and enables the sale of a company’s products and services internationally in a cost-effective and flexible way.

Apply here!

Is your cosmetics or food business ready to leap into the lucrative Asian markets? If your company meets the following criteria, this project is your chance to scale internationally and reach new customers in Japan and South Korea:

You have an existing online store (quick localization).
You are a manufacturer of local products.
Your brand embodies the ‘Nordic’ spirit, with organic or sustainably designed products made in Finland or Estonia.
You are financially prepared and ready to grow through exports.
Your business is equipped for warehousing and can manage inventory effectively.
You are motivated to expand globally and have the resources to make it happen.
Sufficient staffing resources.
You are committed to transparency and collaboration in logistics and delivery processes.

This is a unique opportunity to boost your brand globally with minimal risk. While you will need to invest 3000-5000 EUR in marketing, you will gain:

Warehousing services provided (savings of 200-500 EUR/month).
Free market research for 1- 3 products (value: 500-1500 EUR depending on product volume).
Consolidated shipping to reduce costs, with customers covering delivery fees.

Application time is: 1.10.2024 – 31.8.2026

Apply from here

What benefits does an SME participating in the project receive?

Access to new markets

Entry to Japan and South Korea: SMEs will get help to gain access to fast-growing consumer markets with high demand for quality cosmetics, superfoods, and beverages from clean, natural environments.

Market Insights and Research

Tailored Market Research: Detailed insights into local consumer preferences, trends, and regulatory requirements in Japan and South Korea, ensuring SMEs are well-prepared to meet market demands.
Competitor Analysis: Information on competitors in the target markets and strategies to differentiate their products.

Cultural and Business Training

Intercultural Training: Guidance on cultural nuances, business etiquette, and communication styles, reducing the risk of misunderstandings and helping SMEs build stronger relationships with local partners.

Marketing and Localization Support

Localized Marketing Strategies: Assistance in developing targeted marketing campaigns tailored to Japanese and South Korean consumers, including product packaging, messaging, and branding

Logistics and Operational Support

Sustainable Supply Chain Management: Guidance on creating eco-friendly and efficient supply chains, ensuring products are delivered sustainably and cost-effectively.

Practical advice on choosing the right logistics partners and optimizing shipping routes to minimize costs and delivery times.

Tailored process improvements for international deliveries, helping SMEs manage complex logistics operations smoothly.

Project activities

Export Readiness

Export Readiness refers to a company’s ability to successfully expand into international markets.

Business overview about current state of the company (e.g. existing online store, web pages)
Product Market Fit: Ensuring your product meets the needs and preferences of target markets.

Cultural training -course

Course equips with the tools to succeed in Japanese and South Korean markets.

Focus on understanding cultural differences (cross-cultural competence) and fostering effective collaboration (intercultural competence) for successful market entry and long-term business relationships.
Lectures by experts and assignments to done at own pace.

Delivery strategy & tools

Each participating SME will get specific guidelines tailored for them.

Delivery guidelines serve as a logistics roadmap, outlining how to model the order-delivery processes effectively. The unique requirements and circumstances are taken into account of each business, offering a customized approach to process modelling.
Tools which, empowers companies to assess and evaluate their own order-delivery processes.

Sales and Marketing activities

Part of the export process is to get to know the sale channels (Amazon Japan & Coupang in South-Korea) and start sales on those channels

The project provides help and guidance to start the sales. Locals will provide inside info of the markets and trends.
Product market fit and market research will support sales activities.

Facts

Contact: Heidi Järvi, Project manager, heidi.jarvi@xamk.fi, +358 50 439 2163 (FIN & ENG)

Project name: