So now, backed by Norway's government, they're determined to face off international opposition and get that lucrative Japanese market open for the blubber.

BBC: Norwegian whalers' determined position

The Americans (and some Europeans) have years of experience in this area, which could help the Japanese, whose wholesale electricity market was thrown open in March.

ECONOMIST: Japanese companies

This will open up the car market for foreigners, and China Motor will benefit from its good relationships with Japanese carmakers Toyota and Nissan.

CNN: Bottoming-Out in Bangkok?