Brand Story

Ever-Evolving,
Ever-Exploring –
Our Story Goes On

Constantly exploring new markets,
constantly striving to pioneer new distribution systems,

Our history,
woven over more than 50 years,
is a testament to the time spent
facing the unknown.

And now, in this era of uncertainty,
what is most needed is
the courage to
embrace challenges without fear of the unknown.

With the venture spirit that has remained
unchanged since our founding,
and armed with the strategies and expertise that
have supported countless businesses,
the story of Honda Trading’s challenges
will continue to unfold.

History of
Honda Trading

From discovering captivating
products to engaging in highly specialized manufacturing,
we have consistently responded
to the needs of the times,
creating new value along the way.

1970s

Founded as
Act Trading Corporation

We explored new markets with unique products distinct from Honda’s offerings at the time, such as motorcycles, automobiles, and tillers.

1973

Launched of the CAFEX Series

Our original brand, featuring coffee equipment and regular coffee, gained attention. The coffee maker, which incorporated Honda’s radiator technology, won the Good Design Award in Japan in 1977.

1974

Manufactured and Sold
the “Kick ’N Go”

A ride-on toy that captivated children across Japan,
considered the predecessor of today’s kick scooters.
Honda developed it, while we handled manufacturing, sales,
and import/export.

1980s

Renamed to Honda Trading Corporation

As a member of the expanding Honda Group, we took on new challenges with innovative products and businesses.

1980

Acquired the Rights of a Live Cattle　Business and Farm Management

We launched a live cattle business utilizing return trips of
Honda’s dedicated ships to the U.S. At the time, when Japan imported
about 15,000 head of lives annually, our transactions accounted for 10% of that volume.

1988

Started Importing and Selling NEWTON Wine

Thanks to the passion of our employees, we began importing high-quality wine from Napa Valley. In 1999, it won the “Best American Wine” award at the Japan International Wine Challenge.

1990s

Expanded Rapidly Overseas

We established new bases in 12 countries and regions, expanding our business domains with speed, including handling new materials.

Number of
Overseas Bases 15 countries
and regions

To meet growing overseas demand, we entered the UK, Canada, China, Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Taiwan, Brazil, India, Italy, and Mexico.

1994

Established the Molten Aluminum Plant

We set up a factory to supply molten aluminum alloy to Honda’s Kumamoto Factory. With high recycling efficiency and contributions to weight reduction, aluminum is in high demand, and we continue to expand this business domestically and internationally.

2000s

Expanded into Manufacturing and Sales Domains,
Broadening the Value Chain

In addition to establishing manufacturing companies for molten aluminum, steel processing, dies and molds, and testing jigs, we began CBU distribution.

With Honda’s global expansion, we have focused on providing manufacturing support. We are developing businesses that align with the needs of the times, such as addressing environmental concerns through initiatives like vehicle electrification, weight reduction, and recycling.

2006

Started CBU Distribution in Romania

We established Honda Trading Romania S.R.L to handle the import and sale of Honda automobiles in Romania and Moldova, where economic growth is remarkable. This is the only company in our group that manages businesses from CBU sales to spare parts supply.

2007

Established the Steel Processing Company in India

Steel material into the shapes our customers need. We meet diverse local processing needs by combining logistics and processing functions.

2010s

Strengthened Global Marketing Functions

We expanded into Germany, South Korea, Bangladesh, and the UAE (Dubai), promoting the development of new supply chains and business opportunities.

2020s

Formulated HT 2040 Global Vision

We formulated a vision outlining the direction of our group toward 2040. By uniting the aspirations of our global bases, we aim to expand our business more efficiently and effectively.

Our goal is to realize a prosperous future for people and society and contribute to a sustainable world through coexistence with the Earth.
This slogan embodies the commitment of each associate to take the lead and envision a new future.

HT 2040 Global Vision

2021

Established Material Evaluation Technology Services Company

We founded JTLep Inc. in Tochigi Prefecture to provide measurement, testing, and analysis services for industries such as automotive, electronics, batteries, and semiconductors. Our goal is to contribute to our customers’ technological development and quality improvement.

2025

Together with Our Associates, Reaching Customers Around the World

We are dedicated to exceeding our customer expectations while enhancing value and confidence.
Aspiring to be a company that society wants to exist, we will continue to take on challenges, driven by dreams.

Number of
Overseas Bases

19

countries
and regions
Sales Consolidated accounts

1,611

billion yen
Number of Employees

Approx.

2,350

Our Business
& Strength

Everything you need
to lead your business to success.
What we aim to deliver is a unique solution
that goes beyond
the framework of a trading company.

In an era of constant change,
traditional theories alone are not sufficient.
What business demands now is
the power to see clearly,
to adapt, and to move forward
with unwavering strength.

Our strength lies in the “quality,” “flexibility,” and “adaptability”
we have honed over nearly
50 years of supporting Honda’s growth.
Rooted in mobility, we offer services
that transcend conventional boundaries,
paving the way for innovation and progress.

Research & Development
1. Exploration of new businesses and products
2. Co-creation of businesses through external collaboration
3. Comprehensive contracting of evaluation technology services in manufacturing
Global Businesses
1. Local information collection and provision
2. Overseas expansion support
3. Competitive local materials and parts proposal
Equipment Dies & Molds Supply
1. Comprehensive coordination of equipment procurement（Supplier selection, Procurement, Logistics, Installation, After-sale services）
2. Production and supply of dies & inspection jigs
Raw Material Supply
1. Non-ferrous metals procurement and supply
2. Molten aluminum production and supply
3. Steel materials procurement, processing and supply
4. Plastics and Resin procurement and supply
Parts Supply
1. Parts procurement and supply
  (for automobiles, motorcycles, power products)
2. Warehouse management, JIT operation for delivery, and supply-demand management services
Complete
Build-Up
1. Wholesale of automobiles and motorcycles
2. Wholesale of spare parts and accessories for automobiles and motorcycles
3. After-sales service etc.
Environmental Resources
1. Recycling of resources from end-of-life vehicles
  (lead batteries, bumpers, catalysts)
2. Consulting on waste for auto dealers
3. Copy paper and industrial paper procurement and supply
Consulting of Global Logistics
1. Proposal of the most optimal logistics services
2. Proposals for reducing environmental impact and costs through modal shifts and improving transportation efficiency
Our Business TOP

Sustainability

Through precise solutions to environmental
and social challenges,
we contribute to building
a sustainable future.

Helping our customers achieve
their business goals—
we believe this also means protecting, nurturing,
and advancing the foundations of business:
the environment, society, and governance.

With the unique expertise and networks,
we have cultivated,
we find answers to every challenge
and guide the way to resolution.