WeBD.Tokyo is launching cdmo.jp, a Japan-focused discovery platform that maps “technologies Japan doesn’t have” and “technologies only Japan has,” connecting pharmaceutical teams with the right CDMO partners. The site uses a structured taxonomy (dosage form, modality, scale, GMP scope, inspection history, equipment, analytics, references, videos) so Japanese sponsors and overseas Read more
When “Yes” Means No: Decoding Japanese Tatemae in Pharma Business At BioJapan, did every meeting feel like a success — until the silence came afterward?You’re not alone. Many Western pharma executives walk out of Yokohama believing they’ve gained traction, only to face weeks of polite quiet. The reason isn’t lack Read more
As BioJapan approaches, many overseas participants are asking themselves: Are we prepared not only with presentations and brochures, but also with the right approach to building trust with Japanese partners? This is a crucial question, because success at BioJapan is not only about showcasing technologies—it’s about understanding how Japanese pharma Read more
Introduction During the September 19 JPLA meeting, one recurring question emerged: Why do so many requests on the BioJapan partnering system go unanswered? On the surface, the platform is well designed—connecting Japanese and overseas companies in licensing, BD, and collaboration. Yet in practice, replies often feel elusive. A major Japanese Read more
I had an eye-opening chat with a BD lead at a European CDMO. Their team had met several Japanese companies at trade shows, the conversations went well, and—great news—the Japanese side asked for a quote. So far, so good. But there’s one thing many European teams miss at this exact Read more
While preparing our BioJapan materials, we revisited an excellent guide from JETRO—the Japan External Trade Organization, a government‑related body that promotes trade and investment and equips foreign firms with practical playbooks for operating in Japan. Building on those fundamentals, this article reframes the insights specifically for CDMOs and platform biotechs Read more
In a previous article, I noted that LinkedIn is barely used in Japan, and English-language announcements are usually ignored by the very people you want to reach. If you are serious about building a presence in Japan, you cannot rely on global channels alone. You need to invest in Japan-specific Read more
Japan is the world’s third-largest pharmaceutical market, yet dozens of therapies approved in the United States or Europe remain unavailable to Japanese patients. This phenomenon—often called “drug loss”—exists when drugs approved abroad are neither approved nor even in development domestically. According to government data, by March 2023 there were 143 Read more
You’re here to grow pipeline—but if you’re traveling with family (or owe souvenirs), you also need fast, reliable options within minutes of the venue. The list below is what I personally use with visiting colleagues and clients. I’m based in Yokohama and have set up two Japan subsidiaries as joint Read more
When European CDMOs consider expanding to Japan, LinkedIn often feels like the obvious starting point for outreach. After all, in Europe and North America, LinkedIn has become the lifeblood of business development, recruiting, and thought leadership. Yet in Japan, many companies discover the hard way that simply replicating their global Read more