What is an Affiliate Service Provider (ASP)? A Guide to Partnering with Japanese Affiliate Networks

Affiliate marketing is an incredible way for businesses to expand their reach and achieve results based on performance. If you’re looking to tap into the Japanese market, choosing the right Affiliate Service Provider (ASP) is key. These platforms connect advertisers with publishers, making it easier to run successful affiliate campaigns.

In this guide, we’ll break down what ASPs are, how they work, and why they’re essential for succeeding in Japan’s unique market.

What is an Affiliate Service Provider (ASP)?

An Affiliate Service Provider, or ASP, is like a bridge between advertisers and publishers. They make affiliate marketing simpler by handling the nitty-gritty details, such as:

Managing campaigns
Tracking and reporting
Processing payments

For advertisers, ASPs save time and effort, letting them focus on scaling their campaigns and reaching the right audience.

Why Are ASPs So Important in Japan?

Japan’s market is one-of-a-kind, with its own consumer behaviors and trends. That’s where local expertise becomes critical. A good Japanese ASP can help you:

Understand cultural preferences and buying habits.
Access top-notch publishers specific to Japan.
Use tracking and analytics tailored to the Japanese e-commerce scene.

By working with a trusted Japanese ASP, you’ll ensure your campaigns connect with the audience—and generate better results.

Open vs. Closed ASPs: What’s the Difference?

When choosing an ASP in Japan, you’ll encounter two main types: Open ASPs and Closed ASPs. Here’s how they differ:

Open ASPs

Easy to join: Anyone can sign up, including beginner publishers.
Broad reach: These ASPs work with a large number of publishers, offering lots of variety.
Great for large-scale campaigns: Ideal if you want to cast a wide net.

Keep in mind: The quality of publishers can vary, so you’ll need to choose your partners carefully.

Closed ASPs

Invite-only: These ASPs are exclusive, working with premium publishers.
Higher quality: Focused on performance and specialized niches, like gaming or e-commerce.
Perfect for targeted campaigns: Best for high-value or niche projects.

Keep in mind: Closed ASPs might limit your reach but often deliver top-notch results.

How Do ASPs Work in Japan?

ASPs make it easier for advertisers to succeed in Japan’s affiliate marketing ecosystem. Here’s a quick comparison:

Without an ASP

You’d have to negotiate deals directly with publishers.
Publishers would manage their own ads and handle payments individually.
This process can be slow and hard to scale in Japan’s fragmented market.

With an ASP

You get access to a ready-made network of publishers.
The ASP handles tracking, reporting, and payments for you.
They provide localized insights to fine-tune your campaigns.

For newcomers, Japanese ASPs can act as your guide, helping you run campaigns that are both culturally relevant and strategically sound.

Ready to Make a Mark in Japan?

Japan’s affiliate marketing industry is booming, expected to reach around ¥586.2 billion by fiscal year 2027, and ASPs are at the heart of this growth. Whether you want the broad reach of Open ASPs or the precision of Closed ASPs, the right partner can take your marketing to the next level.

Looking to dive in? Contact us today and discover how Japanese ASPs can unlock your potential!