The expansion into overseas markets of Kyoto city’s traditional-crafts sector

Abstract

This study examined the current industrial structure of traditional tie-dyeing in Kyoto, as well as the results of the revitalization project known as “the Kyoto Premium program” in relation to the challenges faced by Japanese firms when it comes to opening up overseas markets. Kyoto traditional craft industries depend on China for some of their production processes and it is very important for manufacturers to be in possession of a business strategy that anticipates the building of company brands and the generation of new products. The author shows that the project referred to above provides for both an expansion into overseas markets and the promotion of brand values on the market for traditional crafts.