Amid the computerization of the FMCG industry, rapid growth of e-commerce, and globalization of major FMCG manufacturers and retailers, the Global Commerce Initiative (GCI) was established in October 1999 as a voluntary organization by about 40 FMCG manufacturers and retailers. Three Japanese companies, Aeon, Ajinomoto, and Kao, are members of the organization.
Following the establishment of the GCI, Japanese FMCG manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers agreed to set up the GCI Study Group in April 2002 as a voluntary organization. In April 2005, the study group was renamed "GCI Japan" as a standard promotion organization. GS1 Japan acts as the secretariat for this organization.
GCI Japan is committed to "promoting supply chain standardization by user initiative, while considering both international supply chain standardization and Japan's unique conditions, so as to realize efficient and high-quality supply chain systems." In cooperation with the GCI and GS1 Japan, GCI Japan is promoting standards by integrating efforts of manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers.