Its main office is located in the Ark Mori Building in Akasaka, Tokyo.
Initially, JETRO's activities focused mainly on promoting exports to other countries.
As exporters established themselves in world markets and the balance of trade turned from deficit to surplus, however, JETRO's role shifted to encompass more varied activities.
These have included the furtherance of mutual understanding with trading partners, strategic investment attraction, import promotion, liaison between small businesses in Japan and their overseas counterparts, and data dissemination.
JETRO also provides information and support to foreign companies looking for successful entry and expansion in the Japanese market.