Japanese second-hand goods market booms overseas - Taipei Times

YUCK OR YUM?

While it is difficult to sell second-hand goods that are more than seven years old in Japan, they are still popular in foreign markets, an executive said

AFP, BANGKOK

Under a scorching sun in a Bangkok suburb, a whistle blew, and shouts filled the air as dozens of shoppers rushed into a warehouse bearing the sign “Japanese Second-Hand Store.” From bags and bicycles to surfboards and suitcases, the Japanese second-hand market is booming, with quality-conscious buyers in other Asian countries increasingly tapping into the circular economy trend. “What is considered garbage for them can still be useful in Thailand,” said 36-year-old Lookpoo Sathitpanyapon, who runs an online store selling toy keychains.

People look at displays of second-hand goods at the Hamaya wholesale auction site in Higashimatsuyama, Japan, on May 14.