The following research report contains market research, analysis, statistics and business intelligence relating to research on Women's Wear Industry In Japan.

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ABSTRACT
The total Japanese market for all kinds of apparel is estimated
at approximately yen 4,989 billion or US$ 41.2 billion. The
apparel market in Japan was growing at 10-15% annually until
1996, despite the slow economy following the burst of the
economic bubble in 1991 and a stagnant domestic apparel market
since then. In particular, Japan's apparel imports were enjoying
a remarkable increase with 15-20% annual growth until 1996. The
imports from the U.S. were especially remarkable, with annual
growth rates of 20-30% due to the "American Casual Fashion" boom
in Japan. Major supplying countries in 1997 were China(65.9% of
imports); Italy(7.7%); South Korea(4.5%); U.S.(4.3%); and
Vietnam(3.1%).

The market size for women's outer garments in Japan is estimated
at about yen 1,846 billion or US$ 15 billion, which is equivalent
to 37% of the entire apparel market. The domestic market for
women's outer garments has been shrinking by approximately 4%
each year since April of 1997, when the consumption tax increased
from 3% to 5%, special tax cuts were terminated, and the
patient's portion of payment under national health care was
increased. In addition, the Asian economic crisis since July
1997, when the Thai baht was switched to a floating exchange rate
system, considerably influenced the Japanese economy.
Restructure and /or scandals among major banks, stock companies,
and government organizations further worsened the consumption
market. Japan's gross domestic product (GDP) registered a real
growth rate of 0.9% in 1997. This was the first time in three
years for the figure to fall below 1% and the lowest level among
major developed nations.

Imports of women's outer garments also dropped by 5% in 1997, and
the industry experts are rather pessimistic of the market
recovery for next couple of years. The recent yen depreciation
also makes imports more difficult.

The "American Casual Fashion" boom propelled an extraordinary
increase in imports from the U.S. for several years until the
first part of 1997. After April 1997, Japanese importers had
difficulties with further market expansion because of huge dead
inventories unsold at retail shops, resulting from the difficult
economic situation. However, since the spring of 1998, the
Japanese young generation has again started buying "American
Casual Fashion" items, such as jeans and printed T-shirts. U.S.
manufacturers and exporters are encouraged to take advantage of
this trend and make efforts to enter the Japanese market.

Japanese domestic apparel production is changing due to the
increase in labor costs in Japan, a shortage of young labor
resources, a change in consumer preference toward imported items,
and the yen's depreciation. Japanese manufacturers have faced a
severe shortage of labor in their sewing mills due to the aging
population and rising wages. In fact, JECMA (Japan Export
Clothing Manufacturers Association) invites 200-250 young Chinese
sewing mill workers to Japan every year since 1991 on a one-year
contract basis, sending them to small and medium scale sewing
mills throughout Japan.

According to 1997 statistics compiled by the Ministry of Finance,
the major countries from which apparel is imported and their
respective percentages of the import market are: China (69.4%),
Italy (8.2%), Vietnam (3.6%), Indonesia (2.5%) and the United
States (2.4%). The high percentages from China, Vietnam, and
Indonesia are due to Japanese manufacturers' increasing use of
their joint-venture sewing mills in these countries, where
lower-cost labor is available. Imports from Italy have long been
stable due to the deeply-implanted good brand image of Italian
fashion among Japanese consumers. Italian apparel companies and
related industry association are currently trying to regain their
1980's position in the Japanese market by the creation of
classic-casual types of women's wear at reasonable prices.

Major buyers in Japan are women in the 20-24 year-old age group
in terms of apparel volume. From the view of value purchased,
women 45-49 years old are the biggest group because they purchase
the most expensive suits, dresses, skirts and sweaters. Young
women's preference for a prestigious image, reasonable price,
multi-use, and comfort helped generate the boom for "American
Casual Fashion".

As to the laws and regulations for apparel imports, the U.S.
apparel exporters should understand the "Labeling Law" and the
"JIS(Japan Industrial Standard) Size Standards" which are
described in section D of this report.

Women's outer garments cover the following items:
(Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System - HS)

HS 6102.10-010 HS 6104.22-020 HS 6104.43-020
HS 6102.10-020 HS 6104.23-010 HS 6104.44-010
HS 6102.20-010 HS 6104.23-020 HS 6104.44-020
HS 6102.20-020 HS 6104.29-010 HS 6104.49-010
HS 6102.30-011 HS 6104.29-020 HS 6104.49-020
HS 6102.30-019 HS 6104.31-010 HS 6104.51-010
HS 6102.30-021 HS 6104.31-020 HS 6104.51-020
HS 6102.30-029 HS 6104.32-010 HS 6104.52-010
HS 6102.90-020 HS 6104.32-020 HS 6104.52-020
HS 6104.11-010 HS 6104.33-010 HS 6104.53-010
HS 6104.11-020 HS 6104.33-020 HS 6104.53-020
HS 6104.12-010 HS 6104.39-011 HS 6104.59-011
HS 6104.12-020 HS 6104.39-019 HS 6104.59-019
HS 6104.13-010 HS 6104.39-021 HS 6104.59-029
HS 6104.13-020 HS 6104.39-029 HS 6104.61-010
HS 6104.19-011 HS 6104.41.010 HS 6104.61-020
HS 6104.19-019 HS 6104.41-020 HS 6104.62-010
HS 6104.19-021 HS 6104.42-010 HS 6104.62-020
HS 6104.19-029 HS 6104.42-020 HS 6104.63-010
HS 6104.21-010 HS 6104.43-010 HS 6104.63-020
HS 6104.21-020 HS 6104.43-020 HS 6104.69-010
HS 6104.22-010 HS 6104.44-010 HS 6104.69-020
HS 6106.10-011 HS 6106.10-012 HS 6106.10-020
HS 6106.20-011 HS 6106.20-012 HS 6106.20-013
HS 6106.20-019 HS 6106.20-020 HS 6106.90-012
HS 6106.90-013 HS 6106.90-019 HS 6106.90-020

HS 6202.11-100 HS 6204.11-100 HS 6204.44-100
HS 6202.11-200 HS 6204.11-200 HS 6204.44-200
HS 6202.12-100 HS 6204.12-100 HS 6204.49-100
HS 6202.12-200 HS 6204.12-200 HS 6204.49-200
HS 6202.13-100 HS 6204.13-100 HS 6204.51-100
HS 6202.13-200 HS 6204.13-200 HS 6204.51-200
HS 6202.19-100 HS 6204.19-100 HS 6204.52-100
HS 6202.19-200 HS 6204.19-200 HS 6204.52-200
HS 6202.91-100 HS 6204.21-200 HS 6204.53-200
HS 6202.91-200 HS 6204.22-200 HS 6204.59-200
HS 6202.92-100 HS 6204.23-200 HS 6204.61-200
HS 6202.92-200 HS 6204.29-200 HS 6204.62-100
HS 6202.93-100 HS 6204.31-100 HS 6204.62-200
HS 6202.93-200 HS 6204.31-200 HS 6204.63-200
HS 6202.99-100 HS 6204.32-100 HS 6204.69-200
HS 6202.99-200 HS 6204.32-200 HS 6204.33-100
HS 6204.33-200 HS 6204.39-100 HS 6204.39-200
HS 6204.41-100 HS 6204.41-200
HS 6206.10-210 HS 6206.10-220 HS 6206.20-210
HS 6206.20.220 HS 6206.30-100 HS 6206.30-210
HS 6206.30-220 HS 6206.40-210 HS 6206.40-220
HS 6206.90-210 HS 6206.90-220
A. MARKET HIGHLIGHTS & BEST PROSPECTS

Market Profile

Outer wear covers rain/duster coats, suits, jackets/blazers,
slacks, overcoats, one-piece dresses, jumpers, skirts, and
sweaters.

Although the market for women's outer garments was steadily
growing until the first part of 1997, the entire Japanese
economy, including the apparel industry, plunged into a stagnant
phase in 1997 mainly due to the consumption tax hike in April
1997, lag after the buying frenzy to beat the tax hike, and the
termination of special tax cuts. In addition, uncertainty in the
financial system further worsened consumer and business
confidence.

The majority of Japanese apparel manufacturers are facing very
serious financial situations because of huge unsold inventories:
Most of them have already started to take some action for company
restructuring through personnel reduction, wage cuts, selling off
of company real estate, and other means.

One of the major women's apparel makers in Japan, Renown Co.,
had to stop the business of their 25 brand names and discharge
700 employees, 10% of their total employees, even though they
were enjoying a top-level position for years being supported by
very successful business in the mass production of many
best-selling brand names.

According to the "Annual Report of National Economic Accounting"
issued by the Economic Planning Agency and the "Household
Surveys" conducted by the Management and Coordination Agency, the
following statistics are reported as to the breakdown of apparel
industry;

Men's Wear Market 23.8%
Women's Wear Market 37.0%
Children's Wear Market 8.7%
Others(underwear, socks,
stockings, etc) 21.9%
Other fashion-related
Sundry goods 8.6%
100.0%

Imports of apparel in 1997 from the U.S. were yen 136 billion or
US$1.1 billion, and imports of women's outer garments from the
U.S. were yen 13.6 billion or US$112 million. Imports, local
production, exports, and the total market size of women's outer
garments are all slowing down annually with respective declines
of 6%, 3%, 1%, and 4% in 1997 from 1996. Industry experts are
not optimistic of the future of this market because of economic
crisis not only in Japan but also in entire Asian region.

Imports from the U.S. are also decreasing at an annual rate of
10% according to the "Japan Exports & Imports" compiled by the
Japan Tariff Association. However, many Japanese travelers
(approximately 16 million of people in 1997) purchase apparel,
mainly women's outer garments, in foreign countries including the
U.S. It is reported by travel agents that these travelers
reportedly spent approximately 1% of their travel expenses for
apparel. The total amount of money used for apparel purchasing
is estimated at about yen 350 million or US$ 2.9 million. In
addition, through international mail order catalog sales,
considerable amounts of American apparel not captured in trade
statistics may be entering the market.

Considering the above mentioned factors, real imports of women's
outer garments might not have decreased at such high percentages
as claimed by some industry experts.

Despite the shrinking market phenomenon since 1997, "American
Casual Fashion" is still attracting strong consumer interest in
Japan. In terms of product categories, sports/casual types of
fashion such as culottes, shorts and long slacks are well
received.

Statistical Data

Women's Outer Garments: (Millions of Japanese Yen)

1997 1998 1999 Est.Avg.Annual
(Est.) (Est.) Real Growth-
Next 3 yrs.
------------------------------------------
Import Market 562,227 528,493 496,783 -6%

Local Production 1,293,732 1,254,920 1,217,274 -3%

Exports 10,114 10,013 9,913 -1%

Total Market 1,845,845 1,773,400 1,704,144 -4%
(Millions of U.S. Dollars)

Import Market 4,647 4,065 4,499

Local Production 10,692 9,653 9,364

Exports 84 77 76

Total Market 15,255 13,642 13,109

Imports from U.S. 112 100 91

Exchange Rate 121 130 130
(yen per dollar)

Future Inflation Rate Assumed: 0.4%

1997 Import Market Share(percentages for the USA and major
competitors): USA:2.4%; China:69.4%; Italy:8.2%; Vietnam:3.6%;
Indonesia:2.5%

Sources: "Japan Exports & Imports" published by Japan Tariff
Assn.; "Apparel Production Survey Report" compiled by Textile
Industry Structure Improvement Council; and "Japanese Apparel
Market and Imports" issued by Japan Textile Importers
Association.

Receptivity Score(one:not receptive - five:extremely receptive):
four

Best Sales Prospects

1. Women's suits
Classic 60s and 70s style. Material is cotton and rayon in
spring/summer. In fall and winter, mainly wool. Those featuring
velvet on the collar and cuffs also appeal. In addition to basic
colors such as black, gray, navy, and beige, pastel colors (pink
and blue) are even popular in fall and winter. The top-sellers
are exclusive Italian and French brands and also low-priced
Chinese products. Prices range from Yen48,000(US$397) to
Yen100,000(US$826).

2. Women's coats and jackets
Three-quarter length, super long, or medium length (ie. knee
length). Box-shaped jackets are also popular. Wool is the main
seller. High-quality fabrics such as cashmere, silk, and
alpaca-angora blends. The most popular colors are the
basics-black, camel, gray, brown and navy blue. Lightness, good
durability, easy to wear are main points for consumers
preference. Items of Yen60,000(US$496)-Yen120,000(US$992) price
ranges are well sold.

3. Women's pants & skirts
Tight skirts. Pants with two tucks or those with slim line.
Spats. Silhouettes are at the two extremes -- slim or large.
Wool, summer wool, cotton, polyester, corduroy, and stretch
fabrics. In low-priced lines, acrylic wool blends, or shiny
silk-satin. Colors are black, brown, gray, beige and navy blue.
Should be easy to coordinate. In low-priced lines, products
washable at home. Prices range from Yen30,000(US$248) to
Yen60,000(US$496).

4. Women's shirts & blouses.
Items featuring famous brand logos. Tailored collars and off
turtle neck. In low-priced lines, those with shape memory (ie.
treated to retail their shape). Quality design. Plenty of room
at the neck. Cotton, silk, polyester and rayon. Or shiny
fabrics such as satin. Solid colors or glossy solid colors in
white or black monotones. Can be washed at home. No-iron is
desired. Retailed at the prices ranging from Yen30,000(US$248)
to Yen60,000(US$496).

5. Women's knitwear(sweaters and cardigans)
Twin sets (ensembles) with rounded necks, and sweaters with
turtle neck or high necks. Pure sheep's wool, pure cashmere,
sheep's wool-cashmere, mohair and silk-mohair. Materials with
their own unique gloss and feel such as silk, polyester and
rayon. Solid colors in basic white or black. Brighter colors
such as light pink or blue. Lightweight and comfortable to wear.
Good fit. Best sellers prices range from 7,900 Yen (US$65) to
19,000 Yen (US$157).
B. COMPETITIVE ANALYSIS

Domestic Production
The Japanese domestic production is changing due to the increase
of labor costs in Japan, a shortage of resources, a speedy change
of consumers tastes, and the Yen's depreciation. Total
production of women's apparel in 1997, in terms of value, was
Yen1,293.7 billion or US$4.6 billion, a 3 percent drop in the
value of Yen from the precious year. In terms of quantity, the
production by product categories follow: (unit: 1,000 pieces)

1996 1997 increase/decrease

Women's suits 4,100 4,190 +2.2%

Women's pants 3,976 3,745 -5.8%

Women's jackets 10,985 12,963 +18.0%

Women's slacks 21,941 22,968 +4.7%

Women's skirts 17,109 16,016 -6.4%

Women's sweaters 25,224 30,407 +20.5%

Women's blouses 24,768 23,507 -5.1%

Women's outer shirts25,231 27,197 +7.8%

In Japan, apparel manufacturers have faced a severe shortage of
labor in their sewing mills due to an aging population and rising
wages. To resolve this problem, JECMA (Japan Export Clothing
Manufacturers Association), a non-profit organization of 380
apparel manufacturers in Japan, have established reportedly 100
joint-venture sewing mills in China, Vietnam, Malaysia and other
low-cost countries to cut production costs. JECMA also has
invited approximately 200-250 sewing mill workers, who are
working at the joint-venture sewing mills in China, to work on
one-year contracts at Japanese sewing mills.

The following is the list of top five domestic
manufactures/wholesalers of women's outer garments by product
categories. (unit: millions of US$)
Blouse/Shirts
company name sales percentages to total sales

1. ITOKIN Co., Ltd. 128.0 11.8

2. World Co., Ltd. 119.5 11.0

3. Renown, Inc. 96.5 13.1

4. Tokyo Blouse Co. 82.0 69.0

5. Sakuraya Shoji 70.7 14.0
Blazers/Jackets

1. World Co., Ltd. 179.9 16.5

2. ITOKIN Co., Ltd. 167.5 15.5

3. SANYO SHOKAI, Inc. 157.4 23.0

4. Onward Kashiyama 136.4 21.0

5. Renown, Inc. 120.1 16.3
Coats

1. SANYI SHIKAI, Inc. 153.1 22.3

2. Onward Kashiyama 128.9 19.7

3. Tokyo Style Co. 93.1 7.2

4. World Co., Ltd. 78.6 7.1

5. ITOKIN Co., Ltd. 77.3 20.6
Suits/Ensemble

1. Tokyo Sowarl Co. 128.0 65.5

2. Lovely Queen Ltd. 91.8 64.0

3. Robe Co., Ltd. 60.3 90.0

4. Sakuraya Shoji 50.5 10.0

5. Kanebo Co., Ltd. 42.6 17.0
One-piece dress

1. World Co., Ltd. 69.1 6.3

2. Renown Look Inc. 66.2 15.2

3. ITOKIN Co., Ltd. 62.2 5.7

4. Java Group Ltd. 52.1 15.4

5. Five Fox Co. 47.3 11.7
T-shirts/Trainers/Polo shirts

1. ITOKIN Co., Ltd. 153.5 14.2

2. Sakuraya Shoji 136.3 27.0

3. Renown, Inc. 118.7 16.1

4. OHNISHI IRYO 66.1 25.0

5. Java Group Ltd. 60.9 18.1
Sweaters/Cardigans

1. World Co., Ltd. 235.7 21.7

2. Renown, Inc. 176.1 23.9

3. NAIGAI Co., Ltd. 159.0 50.0

4. ITOKIN Co., Ltd. 147.4 13.6

5. Sakuraya Shoji 126.2 25.0

Bottoms

1. World Co., Ltd. 258.6 23.8

2. ITOKIN Co., Ltd. 199.9 18.4

3. SANYO SHOKAI, Ltd. 162.6 23.7

4. Renown, Inc. 159.9 21.7

5. Singapore Co., Ltd. 159.6 79.8

Source: "Ladies Apparel Ranking" compiled by SENKEN Newspaper

Since the first part of 1997, majority of Japanese apparel
manufacturers have been in a very difficult situation not only
due to a lingering recession but also due to a huge stocks of
dead inventory; and many of them have taken "company
restructuring" action, including reduction in force, selling the
company's real estate, and cutting employees' salaries and
bonuses. However, some companies, who had successfully adopted
efficient and productive management/operation policies, enjoy
good businesses despite the slow market situation.

3rd Country Imports

According to statistics compiled by the Ministry of Finance,
total apparel imports in 1997 decreased by 5% in Yen value from
1996 to Yen 1,766 billion or US$ 14.6 billion.

Imports of women's outer garments in 1997 also dropped by
approximately 5% in Yen value from 1996 to Yen 562 billion or US$
4.6 billion. Major supplying countries are China(69.4%),
Italy(8.2%), Vietnam(3.6%), and Indonesia(2.5%). The U.S. import
share is 2.4%.

During 1997, in percentage terms, only Vietnam and France enjoyed
increases: by 25% and 1% respectively. Imports from China,
Italy, Indonesia, and the U.S. decreased by 8%, 11%, 12%, and 13%
respectively. The remarkable increase in imports from Vietnam
was mainly due to Japanese manufacturers' increasing use of
Japan-Vietnam joint-venture sewing mills for production.
Industry experts predict that import from Vietnam will increase
in the future as the results of the increase in the establishment
of new joint-venture sewing mills. Industry experts estimate
that the imports of women's outer garments will be leveling off
or slowing down for the next few years unless the Japanese
economy recovers by Japanese government prompt and active
measures.

Although the women's outer garment market in Japan, in general,
has been sluggish due to a slump in consumption, casual wear
still sells well. A relatively larger percentage of the products
of this kind are imported from the U.S.
Japanese imports of women's and girls' outer garments(woven)
January - December 1997 (millions of US$)

Total Suits Jackets Skirts Blouses
Coats Ensembles Dress Trousers Others

China 2777 659 152 55 195 193 232 527 398 366

Italy 449 104 47 6 87 42 35 64 58 6

France 149 22 15 1 36 20 14 20 17 4

Vietnam 102 20 0.3 0.4 3 3 4 13 7 51

USA 66 9 0.8 0.2 7 15 5 18 7 4

Indonesia 64 6 1 3 1.7 7 4.3 13 16 12

S.Korea 53 24 0.4 0.7 6 2.4 1.7 4 8 5

India 44 1.4 0 1.8 1.4 16 3.4 3.8 11 5

HongKong 43 7.8 0.5 0.4 6.8 5 3 9.5 6.5 4

Thailand 42 4 0.1 0.5 2 3.3 3.4 8.5 15 6
U.S. Market Position

Imports from the U.S. accounted for 2.4 percent of the total
imports of women's outer garments into Japan in 1997, a 6% drop
from 1996. Imports from the U.S. were steadily increasing for
several years until 1996, and were expected to continue to
increase at an approximately 10% annual growth rate. However, as
a result of the consumption tax hike in April 1997, last-minute
purchases to beat the hike, the termination of special tax cuts,
and other factors, the Japanese market for almost all industries
began to slow down from the latter half of 1997. In addition to
the impact of the currency and financial crises that spread
throughout almost the entire Asian region, beginning with the
switch of the Thai baht to a floating exchange rate system in
July, stock prices plummeted considerably, giving rise to
uncertainty in the financial system. Also, financial
institutions, including securities companies, banks, the Ministry
of Finance, and the Bank of Japan, were implicated in a series of
scandals, which constrained private-sector demand. In addition,
depreciation of the Japanese Yen against the US dollar from the
beginning of 1998 considerably decreased Japanese imports.

The leading supplying countries of women's outer garments to
Japan are China(69.4%), Italy(8.2%), Vietnam(3.6%) and
Indonesia(2.5%). Vietnam is moving up quickly, with imports that
increased by 25% over the previous year, while imports from
Vietnam are only 2.5% of Japan's total imports of women's outer
garments. Imports from China, Vietnam and Indonesia are
primarily of the products manufactured by joint-venture sewing
mills between these countries and Japan. As the result of labor
cost increase in Japan, domestic production facilities are moving
to these countries where low-cost labor is available.

Industry experts comment that the U.S.-made women's outer
garments of world-famous brandnames such as Calvin Klein,
Jantzen, DKNY, J.Press are well received by Japanese consumers,
while famous brand names of France and Italy (Alene, Christian
Dior, Emanual Ungaro, Nina Ricci, Fila, Mila Schon, Valentino)
are very strong in Japan. However, in percentage terms, the
import market share of Italian-made women's outer garments in
Japan is 8.2%, and the percentage in the U.S. is still 2.4%.
Industry experts anticipate that the American-made women's outer
garments will be more competitive and well received in Japan
because many Japanese travelers to the United States buy the
U.S.-made garments in the U.S. and highly evaluate the products
for their good design and unique color coordination. These
experts add that the American manufacturers and designers should
try to introduce and to further promote their new collections to
the Japanese market through participation in trade fairs,
advertisements in the fashion magazines and apparel newspapers,
and other promotional means.

In addition to direct imports, many foreign brand names are
manufactured in Japan under licensing arrangements. Therefore,
strong and appropriate approach to Japanese trading houses and
apparel manufacturers is recommended. In general, Japanese
trading houses hold the master license and conclude sub-license
agreements with manufacturers for the production for the domestic
market.
C. END-USER ANALYSIS

According to the Annual Report on Household Surveys compiled by
the Management and Coordination Agency, the clothing consumption
expenditures per family per month was highest in 1991 (Yen
23,814), and kept slowing down after then due to an increase in
other expenses including housing, transportation and education.
Consumption Expenditures Per Month Per Family
(Unit: Yen)

Clothing/ Growth Women's Growth Women's Growth
Footwear suits & shirts &
Total dresses sweaters
-------- ------ ------- ------ -------- ------
1994 21,196 -0.9% 4,664 -3.4% 2,210 -3.2%

1995 20,229 -4.1% 4,435 -3.9% 2,214 +0.6%

1996 19,394 -5.1% 4,374 -2.4% 2,143 -4.5%

1997 19,336 -2.5% 4,301 -3.7% 2,157 -2.4%

As indicated in the above table, the clothing consumption has
been slowing down year after year. However, the western-style
casual wear is most common among Japanese young women in their
20's or early 30's. Women of middle and older ages, with higher
incomes, also own a significant amount of casual wear. The
generation that caused the "American Casual Fashion" boom in
Japan was the youngest group (college and high school students),
because they tend to have substantial disposable income from
part-time jobs, while living at home with their parents or in
inexpensive dormitories.

In the 1980's, backed by the booming Japanese economy, consumers
spent a large amount of money on clothing, mostly of famous
designer brand names. After the collapse of the "bubble
economy", consumers became very sensitive to design, quality, and
especially to price, because the babyboomers (age 42-51) have
less disposable income for clothing, faced with high
rents/mortgages, and kids' education expenses.

As described before, in recent days, consumers can be aware of
the latest fashion information very quickly through fashion
magazines, other mass media, and world fashion events. It means
that their fashion tastes change quickly. For example, for the
winter season of 1997, the long woolen coats sold well to young
women in Japan; but this year their interests tend to move to
short-length coats. They call it a "Jacket-Coat" which should be
shorter in length, comfortable to wear, light in weight, and
reasonable in price. For fall items, the combination of "casual
top" and "elegant bottom" will be highlighted among young women.

In Japan, many fashion magazines are available which convey world
fashion trends very quickly, and consumers are much influenced
not only by the magazines but also by other mass media and world
fashion shows.
D. MARKET ACCESS

1) Regulations

The "Labeling of the Household Articles Quality Law" requires all
textile products to be properly labeled with certain information.
Although the details, which are specified by the Ministry of
International Trade and Industry, vary with the product, the type
of information required includes the following:

-Type of fabric and textile yarn content, with percentage figures
for lining, thread, materials, etc.,
-Care and Washing Instructions,
-Size in metric system,
-Name of manufacturer/supplier or officially registered number
with the Ministry of International Trade and Industry,
-Country of Origin,
-Other.

Information on exact labeling requirements can be found by
contacting the MITI office listed in KEY CONTACTS list in this
report.

2) Size Standards

a) As the result of a nationwide survey on the improvement of the
physical build of the Japanese people conducted by MITI (Ministry
of International Trade and Industry), the GOJ has revised JIS
(Japanese Industrial Standards) for women's garments which serve
as guidelines to the standardized sizing system for women's
garments effective February 20, 1997.

b) Sizing Table:

Women's Body Types:
-------------------
A type: Body type with average measurements
Height : 142cm - 166cm
Bust: 74cm - 92cm
Y type: Body type with hip size 4cm smaller than A type
AB type: Body type with hip size 4cm larger than A type, but
bust is up to 124cm
B type: Body type with hip size 8cm larger than A type
Garments measured by sizes of bust, hip, height, and waist
----------------------------------------------------------
(Such as dress, suits, jackets, and fitted coats)

A type: (height 142cm) (unit:cm)
5APP 7APP 9APP 11APP 13APP
Bust 77 80 83 86 89

Hip 85 87 89 91 93

Waist 61-67 64-70 67-73 70-76 73-80

Height 142 142 142 142 142

15APP 17APP 19APP
Bust 92 96 100

Hip 95 97 99

Waist 76-80 80-84 88

Height 142 142 142
A type: (height 150cm) (unit:cm)
3AP 5AP 7AP 9AP 11AP
Bust 74 77 80 83 86

Hip 83 85 87 89 91

Waist 58-64 61-67 64-70 64-73 67-76

Height 150 150 150 150 150

13AP 15AP 17AP 19AP 21AP
Bust 89 92 96 100 104

Hip 93 95 97 99 101

Waist 70-76 73-80 76-84 80-88 84-92

Height 150 150 150 150 150
A type: (height 158cm) (Unit:cm)
3AR 5AR 7AR 9AR 11AR
Bust 74 77 80 83 86

Hip 85 87 89 91 93

Waist 58-64 61-64 61-67 64-70 67-76

Height 158 158 158 158 158

13AR 15AR 17AR 19AR
Bust 89 92 96 100

Hip 95 97 99 101

Waist 70-76 73-80 76-84 80-88

Height 158 158 158 158
A type: (height 166cm) (Unit:cm)
3AT 5AT 7AT 9AT 11AT

Bust 74 77 80 83 86

Hip 87 89 91 93 95

Waist 61 61-64 64 64-70 67-73

Height 166 166 166 166 166

13AT 15AT 17AT 19AT
Bust 89 92 96 100

Hip 97 99 101 103

Waist 70-73 73-76 76-80 80

Height 166 166 166 166
Y type: (height 142cm) (Unit:cm)
9YPP 11YPP 13YPP 15YPP

Bust 83 86 89 92

Hip 85 87 89 91

Waist 67-70 67-73 70-76 73-80

Height 142 142 142 142
Y type: (height 150cm) (Unit:cm)
5YP 7YP 9YP 11YP 13YP
Bust 77 80 83 86 89

Hip 81 83 85 87 89

Waist 61-64 61-67 64-70 67-73 70-76

Height 150 150 150 150 150

15YP 17YP
Bust 92 96

Hip 91 93

Waist 73-80 73-84

Height 150 150
Y type: (height 158cm) (Unit:cm)
3YR 5YR 7YR 9YR 11YR

Bust 74 77 80 83 86

Hip 81 83 85 87 89

Waist 58-61 61-64 61-64 64-70 64-73

Height 158 158 158 158 158

13YR 15YR 17YR 19YR

Bust 89 92 96 100

Hip 91 93 95 97

Waist 67-73 70-76 73-80 76-84

Height 158 158 158 158
Y type: (height 166cm) (Unit:cm)
5YT 7YT 9YT 11YT 13YT 15YT
Bust 77 80 83 86 89 92

Hip 85 87 89 91 93 95

Waist 58-61 61-64 61-67 64-70 67-70 70-73

Height 166 166 166 166 166 166

AB type: (height 142cm) (Unit:cm)
7ABPP 9ABPP 11ABPP 13ABPP 15ABPP 17ABPP
Bust 80 83 86 89 92 96

Hip 91 93 95 97 99 101

Waist 67-70 70-73 73-76 73-80 84 80-88

Height 142 142 142 142 142 142

AB type: (height 150cm) (Unit:cm)
3ABP 5ABP 7ABP 9ABP 11AB 13ABP
Bust 74 77 80 83 86 89

Hip 87 89 91 93 95 97

Waist 58-64 61-67 64-70 67-73 70-76 73-80

Height 150 150 150 150 150 150

15ABP 17ABP 19ABP 21ABP
Bust 92 96 100 104

Hip 99 101 103 105

Waist 76-80 80-84 88 92
AB type: (height 158cm) (Unit:cm)
3ABR 5ABR 7ABR 9ABR 11ABR 13ABR
Bust 74 77 80 83 86 89

Hip 89 91 93 95 97 99

Waist 61-67 61-67 64-70 67-73 70-76 70-80

Height 158 158 158 158 158 158

15ABR 17ABR 19ABR 21ABR 23ABR
Bust 92 96 100 104 108

Hip 101 103 105 107 109

Waist 73-80 76-88 80-88 92 -

Height 158 158 158 158 158
AB type: (height 166cm) (Unit:cm)
5ABT 7ABT 9ABT 11ABT 13ABT 15ABT
Bust 77 80 83 86 89 92

Hip 93 95 97 99 101 103

Waist 61-64 64-67 67-73 70-76 70-76 3-80

Height 166 166 166 166 166 166
B type (height 150cm) (Unit:cm)
5BP 7BP 9BP 11BP 13BP 15BP
Bust 77 80 83 86 89 92

Hip 93 95 97 99 101 103

Waist 64-67 64-73 67-76 70-80 73-80 76-80

Height 150 150 150 150 150 150

17BP 19BP
Bust 96 100

Hip 105 107

Waist 80-88 84-88

Height 150 150
B type (height 158cm) (Unit:cm)

7BR 9BR 11BR 13BR 15BR 17BR

Bust 80 83 86 89 92 96

Hip 97 99 101 103 105 107

Waist 64-73 67-73 70-73 73-76 76-80 80-88

Height 158 158 158 158 158 158
19BR
Bust 100

Hip 109

Waist 84-92

Height 158
Women's garments measured by the sizes of bust and height
---------------------------------------------------------
(such as loose type coats and jackets)

PP type (height 142cm) (Unit:cm)
5PP 7PP 9PP 11PP 13PP 15PP
Bust 77 80 83 86 89 92

Height 142 142 142 142 142 142

17PP 19PP 21PP
Bust 96 100 104

Height 142 142 142

P type (height 150cm) (Unit:cm)
3P 5P 7P 9P 11P 13P
Bust 74 77 80 83 86 89

Height 150 150 150 150 150 150

15P 17P 19P 21P 23P
Bust 92 96 100 104 108

Height 150 150 150 150 150

T type (height 166cm) (Unit:cm)
5T 7T 9T 11T 13T 15T
Bust 77 80 83 86 89 92

Height 166 166 166 166 166 166

17T 19T
Bust 96 100

Height 166 166
Women's garments measured by the sizes of waist and hip
(such as fitted type skirts and trousers)
58-81 58-83 58-85 58-87 58-89
Waist 58 58 58 58 58
Hip 81 83 85 87 89

61-81 61-83 61-85 61-87 61-89 61-91 61-93
Waist 61 61 61 61 61 61 61
Hip 81 83 85 87 89 91 93

64-83 64-85 64-87 64-89 64-91 64-93 64-95
Waist 64 64 64 64 64 64 64
Hip 83 85 87 89 91 93 95

67-83 67-85 67-87 67-89 67-91 67-93 67-95 67-97
Waist 67 67 67 67 67 67 67 67
Hip 83 85 87 89 91 93 95 97

70-85 70-87 70-89 70-91 70-93 70-95 70-97 70-99
Waist 70 70 70 70 70 70 70 70
Hip 85 87 89 91 93 95 97 99

73-87 73-89 73-91 73-93 73-95 73-97 73-99 73-101
Waist 73 73 73 73 73 73 73 73
Hip 87 89 91 93 95 97 99 101

76-89 76-91 76-93 76-95 76-97 76-99 76-101
Waist 76 76 76 76 76 76 76
Hip 89 91 93 95 97 99 101

80-91 80-93 80-95 80-97 80-99 80-101 80-103
Waist 80 80 80 80 80 80 80
Hip 91 93 95 97 99 101 103

84-93 84-95 84-97 84-99 84-101 84-103
Waist 84 84 84 84 84 84
Hip 93 95 97 99 101 103

88-97 88-99 88-101 88-103
Waist 88 88 88 88
Hip 97 99 101 103

92-101 92-103 92-105
Waist 92 92 92
Hip 101 103 105
Women's garments measured by the size of bust:
----------------------------------------------
(such as sweaters, cardigans, jackets, blouses, and skirts)

70 75 80 85 90 95 100 105 110 115 120
Bust 70 75 80 85 90 95 100 105 110 115 120
Women's garments measured by the size of waist:
-----------------------------------------------
(such as loose type skirts and trousers)

55 58 61 64 67 70 73 76 80 84 88
Waist 55 58 61 64 67 70 73 76 80 84 88

92 96 100 104 108
Waist 92 96 100 104 108
Women's garments measured by the sizes of bust and hip:
-------------------------------------------------------
(such as leotard)

3S 5S 7S 9S 7M 9M 11M 9L 11L 13L 15L
Bust 74 77 80 83 80 83 86 83 86 89 92
Hip 82-90 87-95 92-100

15LL 17LL 19LL 21LL
Bust 92 96 100 104
Hip 97-105
A general classification, which is based on the sizes of bust,
height, waist and hip, is most commonly used:
---------------------------------------------------------

For height of 138 - 146cm:
MPP LPP
Bust 79-87 86-94
Height 138-146 138-146

For height of 146 - 154cm
SP MP LP LLP
Bust 72-80 79-87 86-94 93-101
Height 146-154 146-154 146-154 146-154

For height of 154 - 162cm
S M L LL 3L
Bust 72-80 79-87 86-94 93-101 100-108
Hip 82-90 87-95 92-100 97-105 102-110
Height 154-162 154-162 154-162 154-162 154-162
Waist 58-64 64-70 69-77 77-85 85-93

For height of 162 - 170cm
ST MT LT
Bust 72-80 79-87 86-94
Height 162-170 162-170 162-170
c) CS Osaka recommends that the U.S. suppliers of women's
garments to the Japanese market refer to the above sizing
information as one of their sales strategies to readily meet the
requirements of Japanese buyers.

d) Complete information on Japan Industry Standards for clothing
(English translation) is available at;
Japanese Standards Association
1-24, Akasaka 4, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107, Japan
Phone:(03)3583-8005 Fax:(03)3586-2029

Publication names/numbers and cost for each publication are as
follows;
JIS L 0103 General Rule on Sizing Systems and
Designation for Clothes Yen 5,768
JIS L 0217 Care Labeling of Textile Goods Yen 3,296
JIS L 4001 Sizing System for Infant's GarmentsYen 1,236
JIS L 4002 Sizing System for Boys' Garments Yen 4,532
JIS L 4003 Sizing System for Girls' Garments Yen 4,944
JIS L 4004 Sizing System for Men's Garments Yen 3,708
JIS L 4005 Sizing System for Women's Garments Yen 5,768
JIS L 4006 Sizing System for Foundation Garments
Yen 2,060
JIS L 4007 Sizing System for Hosiery Yen 1,648
JIS L 4114 Sizing System for Blouses Yen 1,648
JIS L 4117 Sizing System for Dress, Skirts Yen 2,884

The Japanese Standards Association does not mail their
publications to foreign countries due to some mailing problems in
the past. Therefore, foreign companies can purchase these
publications through their business partners or contacts in
Japan. Some of these publications may also be available through
the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) in New York, NY.

American National Standards Institute
11 West 42nd Street, 13th Floor
New York, NY 10036
Phone: (212)642-4900
Fax: (212)302-1286
Distribution/Business Practices

a) Distribution

The SENKEN SHIMBUN, a major Japanese apparel/textile trade
newspaper (daily, 200,000 subscription), conducted a survey to
determine sales trends of the product categories of women's wear
in 1997. It reported that the amount of sales of blouses/shirts
by the top 20 firms totaled Yen 133,797 million or US$ 1,106
million. The sales amount of blazer/jackets was Yen 171,635
million or US$ 1,418 million. The sales of other items are:

Coats Yen 114,172 million US$ 944 million

Suits/Ensembles Yen 93,755 million US$ 775 million

One piece dresses Yen 80,518 million US$ 666 million

T-shirts/Trainers Yen 130,722 million US$ 1,080 million

Sweaters/Cardigans Yen 206,912 million US$ 1,710 million

In general, the foreign-made apparel is imported into Japan by
Japanese trading houses or the representatives or subsidiaries of
foreign companies in Japan, and is distributed to wholesalers;
and then to retail stores (department stores, specialty stores,
chain stores); and finally to consumers. Japanese department
stores usually sell imported apparel on a consignment basis,
returning the unsold apparel to wholesalers. However, as the
sales of department stores have been slowing down for the past
couple of years, some department stores have changed their buying
strategies and begun to import apparel directly to keep retail
prices down.

Some of leading apparel makers/wholesalers in Japan have their
own retail stores, known as "antenna shops". The primary purpose
of these "antenna shops" is to collect and analyze consumer
preferences and reaction to their new collections, and to supply
new collections as quickly as possible at reasonable prices.

It is important for American suppliers to know that the Japanese
buyers, in general, start their businesses with sample orders.
Japanese importers and wholesalers which purchased the samples of
new collections would stage their exhibitions inviting their
customers to receive the orders. Then, these importers and
wholesalers place the orders from American suppliers.

b) Apparel Seasons

There are two main seasons in the women's wear market in Japan;
fall/winter(F/W) and spring/summer(S/S). Imported items for the
spring/summer season usually are introduced and exhibited from
October to November. Fall/Winter items have longer lead times
due to complexity in manufacturing. Collections are shown and
exhibited from March through August or even as late as September.

However, to cope with speedy changes of consumer fashion tastes,
the importers tend to stage their trade shows by each season as
follows:

For Spring items November
For Summer items February
For Fall items May
For Winter items August

c) Pricing

Typical selling prices for each stage are as follows, with the
retailer's price to consumers given as 100.
Consumer Retailer Wholesaler Importer Exporter
(FOB)
100 60 50 43 25

However, the pricing structure in Japan varies according to the
types of distribution channels and services that importers or
wholesalers provide (e.g. inventory, advertisement cost,
packaging cost, financing system, acceptance of unsold/returned
goods, etc.)

For the purpose of selling imported apparel to consumers at
40-50% discounted prices, some retailers import products
directly. These discount outlets are increasing in number.
However, the U.S. supplier should know that quantities of such
retailers tend to be very small.

d) Pricing Strategy for U.S. Exporters

Japanese consumers are very conscious, particularly since the
Japanese economic bubble burst, that differences in retail prices
at different stores might degrade the product's reputation. In
fact, some U.S. brandnames have lost their Japanese following
when consumers became confused about the value and image of the
product after seeing different prices for the same product at
different stores.

U.S. companies entering the Japanese market should be careful
when quoting prices to potential agents or distributors, paying
particular attention to where the Japanese company "fits" in the
distribution channel, in order to ensure that retail prices of
the same goods in different distribution channels are consistent.
At the same time, U.S. companies should investigate the
reliability and the sales strategy of Japanese buyers, to
maintain a good reputation of their products in Japan. U.S.
companies are also advised to be cautious about giving the same
price to partners at different ends of the distribution chain to
avoid deep discounting by some retailers but not others. U.S.
exporters should also make efforts to monitor the retail prices
of their goods sold in Japan. If the buyer is a retailer, the
U.S. company is advised to consider the pros and cons of selling
products directly to him or her, and also about the best way to
expand its market in Japan on a long-term basis.

3) FINANCING

Japanese commercial banks provide financing to importers based on
the financial situation and credit standing of each company.
Payment to the U.S. supplier is, in general, made by L/C (Letter
of Credit). Therefore, the exporter receives payment from the
transacting bank after the shipment is completed. For a small
quantity sample order, payment by cash remittance through a bank
transfer is usually preferred.

For domestic transactions, the importer normally issues a bill to
the wholesaler at the end of each month, and a couple of weeks
later receives a kind of promissory note called a "tegata" from
the wholesaler, with a 30-60 day term. Wholesalers issue a bill
to the retailer at the end of each month, and the retailer pays
with a 90-120 day "tegata." The wholesalers, in some cases if
necessary, provide retailers with further financial support.

4) KEY CONTACTS

1) Government Agency
Textile Products Division
Consumer Goods Bureau
Ministry of International Trade & Industry
3-1, Kasumigaseki 1-chome, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-
0013
Phone: (03) 3501-1511 Fax: (03) 3501-0316

2) Trade Associations
Japan Textile Importers Association
1-6, Nihonbashi Honcho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0023
Phone: (03) 3270-0791 Fax: (03) 3243-1088

Japan Export Clothing Manufacturers
Association(JECMA)
Osaka YM Building
15-26, Fukushima 7-chome, Fukushima-ku, Osaka 553
-0003
Phone: (06) 453-9221 Fax: (06) 453-9220

All Japan Women's & Children's Industrial
Association
2-4, Iwamoto-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0032
Phone: (03) 3866-8920 Fax: (03) 3866-9009

3) Trade Journals
SENKEN SHIMBUN CO., LTD.
3-8-5, Kayaba-cho, Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103
-0025
Phone: (03) 3664-2311 Fax: (03) 3667-9510
Circulation: 200,000 (Daily)

WOMENS WEAR DAILY
Fairchild Mori Publications Inc.
33-4, Tomihisa-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-0067
Phone: (03) 3400-9501

4) Trading Companies
Itochu Corp.
Import Ladies Wear Section
4-68, Kitakyutaro-machi, Chuo-ku, Osaka 541-0056
Phone: (06) 241-2672 Fax: (06) 241-4562

Marubeni Corporation
Women's Clothing Section
3-3, Honmachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka 541-0053
Phone: (06) 266-3459 Fax: (06) 266-4280

Mitsubishi Corporation
Textile Planning Dept.
1-1-5, Dojimahama, Kita-ku, Osaka 530-0004
Phone: (06) 348-6667 Fax: (06) 348-6679

Mitsui & Co., Ltd.
First Textile Div.
2-3-33, Nakanoshima, Kita-ku, Osaka 530-0005
Phone: (06) 226-3384 Fax: (06) 226-2188

Kakiuchi Co., Ltd.
1-5-4, Nihonbashi-Honcho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103
-0023
Phone: (03) 3270-8311 Fax: (03) 3273-8492

Moririn Co., Ltd.
2-4-14, Nishiki, Naka-ku, Nagoya 460-0003
Phone: (052) 202-1007 Fax: (0586) 72-1113

Sankyo Seiko Co., Ltd.
3-3, Azuchimachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka 541-0052
Phone: (06) 268-5150 Fax: (06) 261-7541

Toyoshima & Co., Ltd.
2-14-27, Nishiki, Naka-ku, Nagoya 460-0003
Phone: (052) 204-7711 Fax: (052) 204-7415

Yagi & Co., Ltd.
2-10-1, Minami Kyutaro-machi, Chuo-ku, Osaka 541
-0056
Phone: (06) 266-7300 Fax: (06) 266-7553

Yagi Tsusho Limited
3-20, Imabashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka 541-0042
Phone: (06) 227-6827 Fax: (06) 227-6855
TRADE PROMOTION OPPORTUNITIES

1) U.S. APPAREL SOLO EXHIBITION
in Tokyo, once a year (in January or February)
Contact: William Dawson or Maura Kim(Ms.)
Office of Textiles & Apparel
U.S. Department of Commerce
Washington, D.C. 20230
Phone: (202) 377-5155 Fax: (202) 501-4064

DISCLAIMER
Information in this report relies on sources including Government Publications, Opinions of industry experts and other public sources. Infomat can accept no responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of such information or for loss or damage caused by any use thereof. All prices subject to change without notice.

$3500 USD
For the 2008 Edition

Published: 2006 August
Market: Womens
Region: Japan
Industry: Apparel
Pages: 45
Delivery: 7-12 Business Days
SKU: infre0000218