Based on the success of its first-time participation at the 2012 International Home + Housewares Show, JETRO, the Japan External Trade Organization, has expanded to two pavilions at this year's event. Nineteen Japanese companies will display an array of unique home goods in both the South and North Halls this year.

Exhibits include products ranging from hand-crafted wood and iron work to unique storage items and high-tech accessories, with a proportion of available goods identified as green, sustainable items, the organization noted.

JETRO sponsored the 2012 pavilion to help companies devastated by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami recover and rebuild.

"Last year’s pavilion proved so successful that JETRO again felt it would be helpful not only for these companies but other Japanese firms as well to introduce their products to North American buyers," said Mio Kawada, executive director, JETRO New York.

Of the 19 participating companies, 13 will exhibit in the Dine + Design Expo and six in the Clean + Contain Expo. Notably, this includes 11 companies who hail from the affected area hit by the 2011 disaster, five of which also participated in the inaugural pavilion in 2012.

Japanese creations today combine rich art and craft-making with the best of modern design and production to create products of both function and beauty. The creations on display at the show include not only traditional craft items but also practical everyday-use items that retain aspects of traditional Japanese techniques.

“Made in Japan home goods are known for their elegant simplicity, sophisticated design and detailed craftsmanship. They successfully merge tradition, culture and modernity,” added Kawada.

The products on display at the JETRO pavilions are suitable for consumers in the United States who embrace minimalistic home décor, value craftsmanship, enjoy international cultures, or who are fond of the Japanese cuisine, noted JETRO.