Overseas Business Trip Costs: Survey of Japanese Residents in 10 Countries Reveals Nearly 90% Report Rising Local Prices

Locotabi Inc. (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Daisuke Takata; hereinafter 'the company') has conducted a survey titled 'Survey on Local Cost Changes to Check Before Overseas Business Trips' targeting registered Locos (Japanese residents living abroad) in 10 countries.

Survey Background:

Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East and fluctuating fuel prices, concerns are growing over their impact on transportation and logistics costs.

Overseas business trips involve not only airfare and hotel expenses but also local costs such as transportation, meals, logistics, and on-site arrangements, all of which affect the total trip cost.

Therefore, this survey asked registered Locos living in 10 countries about changes in local costs and key points business travelers should verify before departure.

Survey Overview:

Method: Online survey

Period: June 2026

Respondents: Registered Locos (Japanese residents) living in 10 countries (Thailand, Germany, Taiwan, South Korea, UK, USA, China, Vietnam, India, Singapore)

Valid Responses: 153

Survey Results

Approximately 90% (88%) reported experiencing changes in prices or living costs

Question: Have you noticed changes in prices or living costs in the past 1–2 months?

About 90% (88%) of respondents answered that they have noticed changes in prices or living costs. This indicates that a majority of local residents are feeling the impact of rising living costs.

Rising Fuel, Food, and Dining Costs Top the List

Question: In your daily life—shopping, commuting, deliveries—what changes have you observed or heard about in the past 1–2 months? (Multiple answers allowed)

Approximately 82% of respondents reported that 'gasoline and fuel prices have increased,' followed by rising prices of daily necessities and food (about 75%) and increased dining-out costs (about 67%).

Additionally, some respondents pointed out non-price changes, such as 'reduced product quantities,' indicating broader cost pressures beyond simple price hikes.

Items Most Impacting Business Travelers

The survey revealed several 'key considerations from a traveler’s perspective.' Based on Locos’ firsthand experiences, the following cost fluctuations are occurring:

Transportation and Fuel Costs:

Many countries reported rising gasoline and fuel prices.

'Fuel price hikes are having a significant impact.'

'Train and taxi fares are soaring.'

'With rising fuel prices, fewer taxi drivers are working, making it harder to hail a cab.'

These comments suggest that not only are transportation costs increasing, but securing transportation itself is becoming more difficult.

Accommodation and Living Expenses:

During trade shows or major events, hotel prices near venues rise, and reservations become harder to secure.

'During popular events, it’s difficult to book hotels, and prices skyrocket.'

Such responses highlight the importance of checking in advance whether the trip schedule overlaps with local events or holidays.

Dining and Daily Living Costs:

Many respondents reported rising prices for dining out, food, and daily necessities. In the U.S., comments included:

'A bowl of ramen now costs over $20, plus tips.'

'Takeout portions are about half of what they were a few years ago.'

These indicate changes not only in prices but also in tipping culture and portion sizes. In Germany, rising train station restroom fees were noted; in Taiwan, some hotels have stopped providing complimentary amenities. These subtle local costs also require attention.

Logistics and Transportation Costs:

When shipping samples from overseas or bringing display items locally, attention is needed regarding shipping fees, customs delays, and local delivery delays. Some respondents noted delays with EMS and other courier services. For business trips involving documents or product samples for exhibitions, it is crucial to confirm shipping costs and delivery times well in advance.

Local Resident Feedback by Country

Perceptions of cost changes varied by country:

· USA: Many reported rising fuel, dining, and food prices, with respondents in urban areas noting the heavy burden of dining costs including tips.

· Thailand: In addition to rising fuel and transportation costs, respondents noticed price increases in convenience stores and daily necessities.

· Germany: Against the backdrop of rising energy prices, respondents reported increases in food, dining, and daily goods prices, as well as reduced product quantities.

· Taiwan: Respondents noticed rising dining and convenience store food prices, as well as reduced quantities, indicating changes in everyday shopping.

· South Korea: In addition to rising fuel prices, respondents noted delays in EMS deliveries and rising airfare prices.

· UK: Respondents frequently mentioned high train fares, hotel prices, and dining costs, indicating a general rise in overall living expenses.

· China: Some respondents reported feeling fewer significant changes compared to other countries, showing regional differences in perceived price fluctuations.

Pre-Departure Checklist for Overseas Business Travel

Based on the survey results, it is important for business travelers to check not only airfare and hotel costs but also local expenses such as transportation, meals, logistics, payment methods, and on-site arrangement fees (e.g., interpreters, guides) before departure.

Key Points to Check Before Overseas Business Travel

When planning overseas business trips, it’s essential to verify not only flights and accommodation but also anticipated changes in local transportation, meals, logistics, payments, and on-site arrangements upon arrival. This helps minimize unexpected costs and logistical issues.

For companies planning overseas business trips, exhibition visits, or local negotiations, we recommend using Locotabi’s corporate services. Local resident Locos provide support with up-to-date local insights, including surveys, interpretation, guiding, and on-site accompaniment.

About Locotabi Inc.

Mission: 'A world where the globe feels close at hand.' Locotabi operates a matching platform called 'Locotabi,' where Japanese residents abroad share their skills and knowledge. Since its founding in 2015, the company has grown its services with members located worldwide, providing multifaceted support for corporate global expansion and operational efficiency.

【Company Name】 Locotabi Inc.

【Headquarters】 2-5-3 Hirakawacho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo

【Representative】 CEO Daisuke Takata

【Founded】 December 1, 2015

【Business Activities】 Operation of 'Locotabi,' a town guide service by Japanese residents abroad

【Website】 https://locotabi.co.jp/

【Business Use Page】 https://locotabi.jp/biz

【Service Introduction Video】 https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WpJ3sOw9MdmL-85YvvOAbFw1HRoR5Epu/view?usp=sharing

Free overseas business use cases published on note magazine: https://note.com/locotabi/m/mee195676480f

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