IHA Offers Market Entry Opportunities to China, Japan

Housewares suppliers looking to enter the Asian market will have two opportunities in September through events offered by the International Housewares Association (IHA). 

The IHA, based in Rosemont, Ill., will sponsor a pavilion for members at the Interior Lifestyle China fair in Shanghai, Sept. 25 to 27, and then an introduction to the Japanese market, Sept. 29 and 30, in Tokyo. Members can participate in just one or both events. 

Companies participating in the Interior Lifestyle China fair pavilion will meet Chinese retailers and distributors to help them reach consumers within mainland China. The fair attracts 20,000 visitors and features 320 exhibitors, 76 percent of whom are from outside China. IHA exhibitors will receive basic booth furnishings for a 9-square-meter booth, along with access to interpreters fluent in Mandarin Chinese and English. 

Immediately following the Interior Lifestyle China fair, the IHA will hold an introduction to the Japanese market in partnership with the Japanese Housewares Importers Association (JHI). With more than 20 members, the JHI is an important link within the Japanese distribution chain.  

Similar to other trade missions sponsored by the IHA, this event will include a retail tour, led by the president of JHI on Sept. 29, followed by a tabletop trade show and networking reception on Sept. 30. More than 100 people are expected at the tabletop show and reception, including key Japanese retailers Franc Franc, Seibu-Sogo, Takashimaya, Isetan and Tobu, and distributors including Y-Yacht, Fujii, Fujiei and Yuwa. 

Complete information and sign-up details for both events are available on the IHA’s website at http://www.housewares.org/members/global_benefits/exportTM.aspx 

The IHA sponsors several trade missions annually to help members enter or learn about international markets. They offer members turnkey introductions to international markets. Meetings, retail tours, receptions, transportation and hotel details are scheduled in advance, allowing participants to focus on their business rather than the logistical details. A trade mission to Australia in November is sold-out. Trade missions planned for 2014 will be announced later this year.