Question from a reader:
Can you tell me if it’s really possible to earn money using the American version of Rakuten Shop on LINE? I would also like to know about the experiences of those who are actually doing it.
Can You Really Earn Money with the American Version of Rakuten Shop? My Experience and Legal Considerations
Hello! I’m a man in
my early thirties, born in California and raised in Osaka, working in the entertainment industry. I love comedy and enjoy both Japanese and American stand-up and skits. Today, I want to answer the question, “Can you really earn money using the American version of Rakuten Shop on LINE?” I have a wealth of knowledge about business, but I will share my thoughts based on specific experiences while also considering legal aspects, so I hope you’ll stay with me until the end.
What is the American Version of Rakuten Shop?
First, let me briefly explain what the American version of Rakuten Shop is. Rakuten Shop is a very popular online shopping platform in Japan, and a similar model exists in the United States. In the American version, various products are sold alongside competitors like Amazon. Not long ago, a friend told me, “You can earn money with the American version of Rakuten Shop!” and I became interested. It seems to be a convenient platform for those living in the U.S. to sell Japanese products.
Experiences of Those Actually Doing It
When I talked to a friend who is using the American version of Rakuten Shop, he mentioned that he started with a small investment. He sold products sourced directly from Japan in the U.S., and for the first few months, he hardly made any profit. However, by refining his product selection and marketing strategies, his sales gradually increased. For example, particularly popular items included products related to Japanese anime and made-in-Japan goods. He used social media to showcase the appeal of his products and targeted ads to raise awareness among his audience. However, as he mentioned, it was really tough at first, and he sometimes wondered, “Can I really earn money from this?” But eventually, he found his footing and began to earn a consistent profit.
Legal Considerations Regarding the American Version of Rakuten Shop
An important aspect here is the legal side. Especially when doing business in the U.S., it’s crucial to pay attention to taxes, trademarks, and import regulations. Specifically, let’s cover the following points.
1. Tax Issues
When selling products in the U.S., different sales taxes apply depending on the state. If you operate as a sole proprietor, you need to calculate and report this accurately; otherwise, you may face issues later. Particularly when selling products sourced from overseas, audits from the tax office are possible, so it’s essential to keep proper records.
2. Trademark and Copyright
In the U.S., trademark and copyright laws are very strict. For instance, if you’re selling products related to Japanese anime, you need to ensure that you don’t infringe on rights regarding characters or logos. Selling without permission can expose you to the risk of lawsuits, so it’s important to conduct thorough research in advance.
3. Import Regulations
When importing products from Japan, you also need to be aware of import regulations. Some products are prohibited from being imported into the U.S., so it’s necessary to check this beforehand.
My Thoughts and Advice
I have a broad network in the entertainment industry, so I am very interested in the business of the American version of Rakuten Shop. To be honest, I believe that the answer to the question “Can you really earn money?” largely depends on individual efforts and strategies. For example, my friend put a lot of effort into product selection and marketing, but even then, he initially struggled to make a profit. Conversely, as long as you continue to innovate, your chances of success increase. Of course, the legal risks cannot be ignored, so it’s important to conduct thorough research and follow necessary procedures in advance. Especially regarding taxes and trademarks, consulting with experts might be a good idea.
Conclusion
In conclusion, earning money with the American version of Rakuten Shop is certainly not easy, but I believe it is worth the challenge. With effort and creativity, you can take a step toward realizing your dreams. If anyone would like more specific advice or experiences in the future, please feel free to leave a comment. I would be happy to think together with you and share information. Until next time, take care!
