There is an interesting article in The Japan Times about the state of affiliate marketing in Japan.
I was surprised to read that ValueCommerce Co. President, Brian Nelson, says “People have only understood affiliate marketing over the last two years (in Japan).”
But he should know, because ValueCommerce is considered a pioneer in affiliate marketing in Japan with a 25 percent market share.
As the affiliate marketing space matures in Japan, some exciting figures emerge:
“According to Nomura Securities Financial & Economic Research Center, the affiliate marketing industry in Japan has grown nearly eightfold in the last three years, from 5 billion yen in 2002 to 39 billion yen in 2005. It forecasts sales of 76 billion yen by 2007.”
While the affiliate marketing industry in Japan is still young, compared with the United States and Europe, they are leading the way in some respects.
For instance, ValueCommerce and six other major affiliate marketing companies set up the Japan Affiliate Service Kyokai in May. Kyokai is Japanese for an association or society.
The association will be drawing up guidelines for affiliate marketing business practices by fall, monitor unethical behavior and educate the public about the industry.
I think it’s time for a U.S. equivalent of the Japan Affiliate Service Kyokai.
Read the complete article at http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nb20060815a1.html.