#Japan #Tokyo #Kokopelli #Big Advance #Tono Shinkin

Launch of BIG ADVANCE GLOBAL: A New Era for SME International Trade

Kokopelli Inc., based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has announced the launch of its international business matching platform, "BIG ADVANCE GLOBAL," in collaboration with Tono Shinkin Bank, located in Tajimi, Gifu. This platform officially starts operations on January 29, 2026, and is designed to assist medium and small enterprises (SMEs) in Japan and overseas by breaking down barriers related to country and language, ultimately facilitating their expansion into international markets.

The Context for Launch

In recent years, Japanese SMEs have increasingly expressed interest in expanding their businesses overseas due to the shrinking domestic market and the weakening yen. However, many companies are reluctant to take the plunge into international markets due to concerns around selecting trading partners, language barriers, and the complexities of trade practices and logistics. To address these challenges, Tono Shinkin Bank made the strategic decision to implement "BIG ADVANCE GLOBAL," aimed at supporting companies eager to venture into international trade or expand their existing overseas relationships.

A Statement from Tono Shinkin Bank

"Through the Tono BIG ADVANCE GLOBAL online matching service, we aim to tackle various challenges our clients face in global expansion, providing them the support necessary for market growth," they explained.

Features and Functions of BIG ADVANCE GLOBAL

This innovative platform not only facilitates market expansion and the exploration of new suppliers but also fosters innovation among SMEs by providing a solid foundation for sustainable growth in the global market. The platform targets the international trade between Japan and ASEAN nations and aims to set a new global standard for B2B business matching originating from Japan.

Key Features of the Platform

• - Exclusive Members Network: Similar to the existing Big Advance platform in Japan, businesses with ties to financial institutions abroad can engage directly in trade.

• - AI Translation Features: Equipped with a unique small-language translation generation AI system, the platform allows users to communicate in their mother language. It includes real-time translation chat and video call features with captioning.

• - Trade Practice Support: Coordinators who are well-versed in Japanese and Thai languages and business customs facilitate smooth negotiations. There are also robust support services available for legal and trade practices as well as international logistics.

• - AI Recommendations (Future Feature): An AI functionality will be introduced to help companies identify projects that suit their profiles during search queries.

For more information, visit the special site at tono-bag.jp and check out the service site at bigadvanceglobal.com.

Future Plans for BIG ADVANCE GLOBAL

The platform is committed to continuous improvement, with plans to enhance AI-powered support and recommendation functions. Additionally, several other financial institutions are currently reviewing the possibility of implementing this service, with a gradual rollout being anticipated in the future.

Kokopelli is dedicated to strengthening its partnerships with regional financial institutions to bolster SMEs in their international market development and transactions, contributing to their sustainable growth.

About Kokopelli Inc.

• - Name: Kokopelli Inc.
• - Location: 3-12 Kioicho, Chiyoda, Tokyo, 11th Floor
• - CEO: Shigeru Kondo
• - Founded: June 2007
• - Business Description: Business platform services
• - Website: kokopelli-inc.com
• - Key Service: Management support platform for SMEs "Big Advance" bigadvance.jp