As defending champion, Japan skipped the qualifications and played directly in the final round of the inter-zone ties (team matches), effectively the semifinals of the tournament.
Four teams qualified for the interzone stage of the competition, Indonesia, Thailand, England and the United States.
From the Pan American zone, United States advanced to the inter-zone ties after beating Canada 5-2 and getting a walkover from Peru.
Indonesia entered the Uber Cup final for the first time after the team defeated England 4–3 in the second round.
Indonesia were set to meet defending champions and hosts Japan in the final.