#Japan #Tokyo #ASTHOM partners #AGS Consulting #Blick Rothenberg

Exploring Opportunities in the UK Market

On November 12, 2025, AGS Group, based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, organized a practical forum titled "GO! UK, CHALLENGE! UK - Practical Forum for Expansion and Success in the UK". This significant event brought together key industry leaders and experts, including Tatsuya Otsuki, the head of AGS's International Division, Yusuke Takakuni, a partner at Blick Rothenberg, a member firm of the global accounting network ASTHOM, Kenichi Kinukawa from TMI Law Firm, and Nick West, the Deputy Head of Investment at the British Embassy in Tokyo.

The Forum Structure

The forum was designed to provide both insight and practical advice for Japanese businesses looking to establish a foothold in the UK. The agenda included various lectures and a lively talk session facilitating exchanges of ideas among participants.

Opening Remarks

Tatsuya Otsuki opened the event by introducing guests and emphasizing the importance of international connections in doing business.

Keynote Speech

Nick West’s keynote covered the allure of the UK market along with the assistance the UK government offers to foreign investors. He shared historical insights into the Japan-UK economic relationship and outlined the initiatives spearheaded by the UK to help businesses expand into their market.

Expert Lectures

The forum featured two critical expert-led sessions:

• - Tax and Accounting in the UK, presented by Yusuke Takakuni, who outlined specific UK tax incentives, local regulations for transfer pricing documentation, and the nation's accounting standards.
• - Legal Considerations for Expansion, by Kenichi Kinukawa, who articulated essential legal aspects that businesses must navigate while entering the UK market, helping participants understand common pitfalls and compliance requirements.

Interactive Talk Session

The latter part of the event was an interactive talk session where experts and attendees discussed attractive cities outside London for potential expansion, as well as practical advice on obtaining visas and opening local bank accounts. Participants were encouraged to share their perspectives and questions, allowing for a dynamic exchange of information and experiences.

Future Support from AGS

AGS Group remains committed to supporting Japanese companies in their global endeavors, ensuring that they have access to valuable insights and tools to facilitate their international business operations. This forum stands as a testament to AGS’s ongoing mission to empower Japanese businesses with the necessary resources as they venture into new markets, particularly in the UK.

About AGS Group

Established in 1970, AGS Group has evolved into a leading independent accounting firm with a robust international outreach. They provide a broad spectrum of services in areas such as tax advisory, cross-border M&A, business development, and more. With a presence in eight countries, including Singapore, Malaysia, and the UK, AGS has positioned itself as a crucial partner for companies looking to extend their operations beyond Japan’s borders.

As of December 2025, AGS employs a workforce of 795 professionals, including certified tax accountants and internationally recognized auditors, dedicated to offering strong, personalized support to a diverse clientele ranging from startups to publicly listed companies. AGS aims to lead in providing accounting solutions that bolster and energize Japan’s economic landscape.

For more information about AGS Group and its services, you can visit their website at AGS Consulting.