Overview

Hey, Ino san!
I heard there is a good way to earn some extra cash.

Rookie

IINO san

Yeah, I used to do some side jobs over 15 years ago.
I got into parallel importing and made some extra money.

……Secretly?

Rookie

IINO san

It seemed very attractive because I’d already decided to start my own business, and it actually succeeded!
You know what, I’ve earned a monthly gross profit of approximately 700,000 yen.

Wow, that’s so amazing!

Rookie

IINO san

Yes. But I spent a lot of money on personal development, became independent, and lost my fixed salary…. I had more rivals and a downfall, though.

IINO san

So, this time, I’ll explain parallel importing, including my unique experiences not found in typical trade guides.

Learning Points

• Overview of Parallel Importing
• Features
• Key Tips for Successful
• Considerations

What is Parallel Importing?

Parallel importing is sourcing Brands’ goods without the authorization of the official distributor and reselling them domestically. The key is not to damage or harm the brand’s reputation, reputation or trademark.

Wait, they’ll sell the goods, even with an official distributor in that country? Won’t there be complaints from domestic authorized distributors?

Rookie

IINO san

It might be challenging to source directly from the overseas manufacturer because they sign agreements with the authorized distributor. However, purchasing from retailers located overseas may be more feasible.

Parallel importing is not illegal.

However, depending on the brand, some restrictions may be imposed by the overseas manufacturer and official distributor.

IINO san

Like, “We can’t guarantee for parallel imported goods.”

Features

One of the advantages of parallel importing is the ease of selling.

Because domestic official distributors have already done the branding, making marketing easier. Suitable products for parallel importing are goods targeted at consumers.

Wouldn’t it be profitable if we offered a significant discount?

Rookie

IINO san

No! The key is not to harm the brand!
Always respect the authorized distributors who have built up it!

Importers must pay close attention to the following:

• Do not harm the brand’s credibility
• Avoid causing harm to the brand
• Do not undermine the trademark

Key Tips for Successful

IINO san

Based on my experience, I would like to share some tips for successful parallel importing from here!

Try to gain customers just by discounting is not recommended because you need to respect authorized agents.

What we would like you to consider is improving your services:

1. Enhance after-sales support
2. Extend warranty periods
3. Offer bundled sales with related products
4. Provide usage instructions through manuals and videos
5. Introduce recommended usage scenarios
6. Establish a community platform

If you strategically combine necessary information and services with the product, you can offer unique value not provided by domestic authorized distributors.

IINO san

There are things you can do without spending a lot of money!

Considerations

When doing parallel importing, importers should be careful about the following:

• Follow the Rules
• Do not handle counterfeits
• Follow Legal Regulations

Follow the Rules

Even if you’re running it as an individual, getting into importing for sales makes it a real business. To make it work as a business, you must consistently source a decent amount.

So, you have to follow the rules and regulations.

What if we import goods as “personal use”?

Rookie

IINO san

For personal use, the rules on imports are usually more relaxed. However, there might be limits on the quantity you can bring in for personal use at one time.

Do Not Handle Counterfeits (Copied Goods)

In parallel importing, the products must be authentic and not counterfeit. Selling counterfeit items as genuine can lead to legal violations.

A common issue in parallel importing is unintentionally dealing with counterfeit goods. Apparel brand copies are especially overflowing abroad.

How can you tell the difference?

Rookie

IINO san

It’s all about the know-how. My friend, who runs a second-hand clothing store, is skilled at distinguishing between genuine and fake items for each brand.

It’s tough for amateurs!

Rookie

Follow Legal Regulations

Before importing, research whether anything falls under the regulations. It’s important to avoid violating any regulations when you import goods.

You must comply with treaties like:

• The Washington Convention
• Environmental protection agreements like the Basel Convention
• Other regulations such as the Electrical Appliance and MaterialSafety Law (PSE)

IINO san

When I used to deal with crocodile leather products in Thailand, I had to prepare documents under the CITES!
I had to submit notifications to the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry.

Importing isn’t just about buying stuff from overseas and selling it domestically, huh?

Rookie

IINO san

Before things are put up for sale in stores, sellers always follow all these rules and regulations!

Summary

Parallel importing is the way sourcing goods internationally without an authorized distributor.

While it offers opportunities to profit, importers will be careful not to handle counterfeit items. Respecting brand integrity and ensuring legal compliance is crucial for successful parallel importing.

IINO san

Handling food might be a matter of life and death, so you’ve gotta do it properly!

I’ll make sure to follow the regulations and rules properly. Gotta keep that in mind.

Rookie

Enhanced Learning with Videos

Test Yourself

Reinforce your understanding of this topic by working through the exercises. Attempting the exercises without referring to the material as much as possible is advisable.

IINO san

The act of “remembering” helps it sink in your memory.