Forget China, Apple Inc. Is Big in Japan (AAPL)

While most have been concerned with the Apple’s (AAPL) presence in China, it turns out the Cupertino-based tech giant has actually been taking greater strides in Japan’s mobile market.

According to  sales data released over the weekend from Tokyo-based MM Research, Apple has managed to gain approximately a 37% share in the nation’s smartphone market; this is noteworthy seeing as how the consumer electronics bellwether boasts a 36% share in the U.S. market. When it comes to tablets, the iPad boasts a 50% share in Japan’s market, further showcasing the brand’s strength overseas.

There are two main factors that have helped bolster Apple’s business in Japan. First and foremost, Japan’s level of wealth supports greater consumption of higher-end electronics, whereas the Chinese consumer doesn’t have the same discretionary income. Second, phone carriers in Japan have been subsidizing the cost of devices; this means that Japanese consumers can pay a lower upfront fee for the latest and greatest phones and tablets, while Chinese shoppers have to pay the entire cost of the device, for the most part.

Hot Communications Equipment Companies For 2015

Only time will tell whether the surge in Japanese sales will be enough to bolster Apple’s next earnings report past analysts’ expectations. Apple shares inched lower on Monday, shedding 0.29% to kick off the week.