FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2019 WWW.SCMP.COM ¢ SPECIAL REPORT ¢ INSIDE: 11-PAGE SPONSORED SECTION IN COOPERATION WITH DISCOVERY REPORTS JAPAN BUSINESS REPORT

TOURISM DANCE FESTIVALS ARE A HIT WITH TOURISTS

Shikoku has several traditional The dance is believed to have a festivals, but none is as renowned history of over 400 years, but its as the Awa Dance (Awa Odori) origins are relatively unknown. Festival in Tokushima city which One suggestion is that the dance attracts some 1.3 million tourists originated from the celebration of each year from all over Japan and the opening of Tokushima Castle in THE BEAUTY OF NATURE overseas. The largest such event in 1587, when the Lord of Hachisuka the country is held in the summer offered rice wine to the locals who as part of the Obon festival, a got drunk and danced freely to Buddhist custom to honour the celebrate. Shikoku, the country’s smallest island, has a great deal to offer – from picturesque spirits of one’s ancestors. This Another suggestion is that the year’s event takes place from dance, which is performed by scenery to a beautiful shrine, hot springs and a dance museum, writes Keith Chan August 12 to 15. different groups, was influenced Awa dance is one of Japan’s by the Furyu dance hosted by Sogo representative traditional Nagayasu (or Masayasu) at the performances practised in Shozui Castle in 1578. The smallest of the four main Tokushima and elsewhere in the There is also another theory islands that make up Japan, country. Also known as “drunken that the dance is actually a local Shikoku is less visited compared dance” or “the fool’s dance”, it is variety of Bon Odori (a dance by to other parts of the country characterised by the rather the Buddhists) performed despite its mild climate, natural unusual movements of the throughout Japan in summer scenery, historical places and dancers, who stumble back and during the Obon festival. traditional festivals. Literally forth on their toes, accompanied Today, the Awa Dance Festival meaning “four countries”, by loud music played on common in Tokushima is a mega event held Shikoku comprises Tokushima, Japanese musical instruments at locations throughout the city. Kagawa, Ehime and Kochi such as the taiko drum, shamisen Groups of dancers, wearing prefectures. lute, shinobue flute and kane bell. costumes, chant and sing as they Once considered a remote The dancers usually bend their parade through the streets in destination, Shikoku is now knees and keep their bodies low. designated areas and on stages easily accessible with the There are women’s dance (with spectator stands either free connection of three highway (onna odori) and men’s dance or paid). Food and game stands bridges across the Seto Inland (otoko odori). In women’s dance, are also available. Sea to Honshu (Japan’s main the dancers wave their hands For some large stages, tickets island). From Hong Kong, Hong above their heads at all times, can be bought in advance at Kong Express has direct flights to while the men’s dance is convenience stores nationwide, or Takamatsu in Kagawa, and characterised by lively and at the tourist information centre Cathay Dragon has just dynamic movements. near Tokushima’s railway station launched a scheduled service Awa dance is performed by on the day of the performance. until March. groups of dancers and musicians Those who cannot make the The estimated number of called ren. Different groups have trip to Tokushima during the international travellers to Japan different coloured costumes and festival can watch the dance at the by mid-December 2018 had flags. Women wear robes called city’s Awa Dance Museum (Awa exceeded 30 million visitors for yukata, while men wear a short Odori Kaikan) throughout the the first time, according to Japan yukata, called happi, over their year. There are performances National Tourism Organization. trousers. There are both several times a day by a While Shikoku is often professional and amateur groups professional dance group, and overlooked as a tourist formed by office workers and guests also have the opportunity destination, it has some of students. to join the dancing. Japan’s most renowned attractions – such as the Naruto whirlpools in Tokushima, one of the largest in the world; Konpira Crossing any of the few remaining suspended vine bridges in the Iya Valley has become a breathtaking experience for visitors. Photos: Alamy (or Kompira) Shrine in Kagawa, a place many Japanese wish to visit at least once in their lifetime; Kagawa are good starting points Tokushima is a coastal city with of the museum is a ropeway breathtaking experience for and Dogo hot spring in Ehime, as the two neighbouring plenty of 3- to 4-star hotels and leading to the summit of Mount visitors. one of the oldest in the country. prefectures boast many of restaurants. A key attraction is Bizan, which offers panoramic At the entrance of the Iya With an area of 18,800 square Shikoku’s attractions and can be the Awa Dance Museum (Awa views of the city. Another Valley is the Oboke Gorge, which kilometres, Shikoku is too big to reached easily by bus from Odori Kaikan), where the attraction is Tokushima Central is known as the Koboke Gorge be covered in a single trip. For Osaka’s airport and city centre in renowned traditional dance of Park which was built around the 3km downstream. These are visitors who have only a few days less than three hours. The capital Tokushima is performed ruins of Tokushima Castle. The narrow, steep-sided gorges with to spare, Tokushima and of Tokushima prefecture, throughout the year. On the top city is also the gateway to the emerald green water and world-famous Naruto swirling rapids. Visitors can join whirlpools about 40 minutes by a cruise on a sightseeing boat or bus from the centre. The Naruto take part in activities such as Strait produces whirlpools of up canyoning and white water to 20 metres in diameter, some of rafting. For those who are the largest in the world. looking for a place to relax, there Visitors can watch the are several hot spring resorts whirlpools from the glass panel with stunning views of the valley. on the Great Naruto Bridge Kagawa, the smallest Awa dancers show off their skills during the festival. across the strait. Those who want prefecture in Japan, has few more excitement can join one of attractions but is known for its the sightseeing boats which pass Konpira Shrine in Kotohira, above the whirlpools. about an hour by train from the landscaped hills. There is also a is known for its beautiful natural For hikers and nature lovers, capital city of Takamatsu. The teahouse within the pretty scenery, including the “Angel the Iya Valley and the Oboke and “God of the Sea” has been landscape. Road”, a sandbar which appears Koboke gorges deep in the worshipped by the Japanese Takamatsu is also the at low tide. mountains of western since ancient times. Located on a gateway to several outlying Both islands can be reached Tokushima are the places to go. hill, the shrine is also known for islands popular among tourists. in an hour by ferry from the port Iya Valley is known for its hot its long staircase of 1,368 steps, Naoshima is known as an art of Takamatsu. A visit to Shikoku springs and outdoor activities. It making the visit particularly island with a number of art is incomplete without sampling is home to the country’s few challenging. installations and two art its famous food, such as Sanuki remaining vine bridges built in Back in Takamatsu, the key museums designed by architect (a place in Kagawa) udon ancient times by locals for daily attraction is the Ritsurin Garden Tadao Ando. It is also a place for noodles, Tokushima ramen, commuting. completed in 1745. It is one of swimming and fishing in the Awa-odori chicken, Honetsuki- Today, crossing a suspended the most historical gardens in summer. dori chicken, and Katsuo no Konpira Shrine, known as the ‘God of the Sea’, has been worshipped by the Japanese since ancient times. vine bridge has become a Japan, with six ponds and 13 Another island, Shodoshima, Tataki bonito fish.

TRADE Fostering stronger ties a key objective

Lee Hill-choi between Japan and Hong Kong the Census and Statistics her speech at a forum in Japan reached HK$381.8 billion, TID Department in its external last November on financial reveals, which was an increase of merchandise trade statistics cooperation between the Japan ranks third as the world’s 5.1 per cent on 2016. Exports released earlier this week Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau largest economy with a service from Hong Kong to Japan showed that compared to a year Greater Bay Area and Japanese sector that contributes to about reached HK$995 million. earlier, December 2018 Hong enterprises. 70 per cent of its GDP. The Land Products included Kong exports to Japan fell by 3.6 In Japan, the Ministry of of the Rising Sun was Hong metalliferous ores and scrap per cent. Economy, Trade and Industry Kong’s fourth largest trading metal, jewellery, gold and Nevertheless, this does not (METI) and the Japan External partner in 2017, according to silversmith ware as well as edible change Japan’s substantial Trade Organization (JETRO) are Hong Kong’s Trade and Industry products; whereas imports from involvement in Hong Kong’s tasked with advising foreign Department (TID). Not bad Japan totalled over economy, with many Japanese companies on investing in considering it was not until 2010 HK$253 billion, including companies setting up regional Japan. that Hong Kong and Japan electrical machinery, apparatus headquarters in the city. METI also has the important signed a double taxation treaty, and appliances. According to the Hong Kong task of recording and advising on with an update in 2014. Despite registering growth Trade Development Council’s the topic of renewable energy in Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor, makes a speech at a forum in Japan last November In 2017, bilateral trade from 2016 to 2017, results from (HKTDC) research, the latest the country through its Agency on financial cooperation between the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area and Japanese numbers online showed that at for Natural Resources and enterprises. Photo: ISD the end of 2016, Japan’s foreign Energy. direct investment (FDI) in Hong When Japan introduced a Kong reached a total stock of HK feed-in tariff (FIT) in 2012, utilising an auction scheme,” that it wishes to power the Mexico, Malaysia, Chile, $220.7 billion, making the renewable energy increased 22 says Akemi Ota, the assistant Games exclusively through clean Thailand, Indonesia, Brunei, the country the ninth largest source per cent annually and director at METI’s International energy. Philippines, Switzerland, of FDI in the SAR. contributed to 16 per cent of Affairs Office. “Secondly, [Japan The Olympics are considered Vietnam, India, Peru, Australia “As of June 2017, there were total power generation in 2017. will] secure long-term stable the fourth arrow in the wake of and Mongolia.” 233 Japanese companies with To lower generation cost, business operations, thirdly the country’s “three arrows” Meanwhile, earlier this year, regional headquarters in Hong auctions for commercial solar PV overcome grid constraints, and strategy to reinvigorate the Japan’s Minister of Justice, Kong, while another 428 had and biomass were introduced in finally, secure operational Japanese economy, which is Takashi Yamashita, and Hong regional offices here,” the November 2017 and December flexibility.” referred to as “Abenomics”. Kong’s Secretary for Justice, HKTDC says. 2018, respectively. The 2020 Tokyo Olympics will HKTDC research says: “As of Teresa Cheng Yeuk-wah, signed Promoting Hong Kong as a “To achieve the energy mix be a showcase of Japan’s January 2018, Japan had a Memorandum of Cooperation, financial centre in the region has goal of renewable energy, Japan commitment to renewable concluded 15 free trade which aims to promote Hong Japan’s Minister of Justice, Takashi Yamashita, and Hong Kong’s been an active campaign by will firstly reinforce efforts at cost energy use as the event’s agreements and economic Kong as a hub for deal-making Secretary for Justice, Teresa Cheng Yeuk-wah, sign a Memorandum of Chief Executive Carrie Lam reduction through setting mid- organising committee partnership agreements, and international legal and Cooperation in January 2019. Photo: K.Y. Cheng Cheng Yuet-ngor, exemplified by to long-term price targets and announced back in June 2018 including those with Singapore, dispute resolution services. S2 Friday, February 1, 2019 ¢ ¢ Sponsored section in cooperation JAPAN BUSINESS REPORT with Discovery Reports M. WATANABE & CO OPEN TO EXPANSION OSAKA SANITARY WITH PRODUCTS FOR THE PROMOTES SAFETY SEMICONDUCTOR INDUSTRY The third generation of Japanese and other essential components, however, as the company aims to make conglomerate M. Watanabe & Co is M. Watanabe has been renowned for its its product offerings stronger by adding AND EFFICIENCY celebrating its 90-year legacy with bigger expertise in delivering high-quality quartz glass fabrication, processed future plans, and significant parts of it are products to the semiconductor industry. quartz glass and other possible international expansion and product “Our key to success is our ability to iterations. diversification. The company is also make products that fit the era,” says “We welcome international WITH ENVIRONMENT- open to more partnerships such as M. Watanabe president Ichiki Kusuhara. companies and institutions that would mergers and acquisitions and research “We are able to build a company that like to invest in or partner with us in and development (R&D) collaborations. caters directly to what the market developing new products and With four subsidiary manufacturing needs.” technologies,” Kusuhara says. companies and two sister companies M. Watanabe enjoys its growth from M. Watanabe also aims to reach new Ichiki Kusuhara, president FRIENDLY PLANT that provide logistical information, trading and manufacturing, which markets. With offices in Taiwan and the M. Watanabe continues to be a leading account for 60 per cent and 40 per cent of United States, and established import and manufacturing company in business respectively, of which 70 per distribution networks in South Korea, searching for local partners,” Kusuhara Japan since its founding in the 1930s. cent is from the domestic market and 30 Singapore and India, the company is says. “China is the market to be in terms EQUIPMENT From trading goods during the war to per cent from international sales. There is keen on expanding its presence in of the semiconductor industry and it’s producing quartz glass, silicone rubber no stopping it from dreaming bigger, Greater China. “We are actively where we want to be.”

the production of many personal production efficiency while providing an Reports by Cassandra Carothers, Brittany products,” says president Tomosaburo excellent solution to countries facing Loveless and Nour Gouider Uno. labour shortages.” The company’s love for innovation Osaka Sanitary has achieved this lients have as much to celebrate has given clients a distinct advantage process using a distinct technique. NSS GIVES MODERN COMFORTS NEW as Osaka Sanitary on its 50th against the competition. While breweries Together with a Japanese partner, the anniversary this year. The in Japan were using a mixture of different company took more than two years of company has a passion for metals for their brewing equipment in research work to finalise the revolutionary MEANING IN VESSEL INTERIOR DESIGN designing and fabricating the 1990s, Osaka Sanitary introduced technology, and started introducing it in Camong the best sanitary or food-grade a revolutionary idea of using an the Japanese market in January last year. Over the years, the shipbuilding industry to include planning, designing, such as commercial, medical and requirements. NSS is the partner of pump and piping systems for the food all-stainless-steel brewing system Osaka Sanitary is applying for a in Asia – led by Japan, China and South procurement and constructing interiors welfare facilities. choice of many companies because we and beverage, biotech, pharmaceutical to ensure cleanliness. patent for the innovation, a move that will Korea – has been steadily becoming as of various vessels and land buildings NSS collaborates with companies execute even the very niche and cosmetic industries, giving clients the “That is how the concept of Nama further raise the company’s list of original robust as, if not stronger than, its across the globe such as AIDA Cruises, requirements,” says president Kazutaka competitive edge across their respective Biru or non-pasteurised beer came technologies comprising approved European and American counterparts. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and IHI. To Akiyoshi. markets. With products ranging from about,” Uno says. “We started giving patents in Germany. In collaboration with Innovation is the name of the game and successfully support their needs in a Outside Japan, NSS established an valves, pumps and fittings to in-line clients the option of using an all-stainless- universities in Japan, Osaka Sanitary is with a company such as Nagasaki timely manner, NSS has established office in Taiwan to cater to local clients sensors and large-scale units such as steel brewing equipment because if you again conducting research focused on Sempaku Sobi (NSS) taking charge of strong connections with a network of and others from the region, particularly sterilisation and air-extractor systems, are producing something you put in your pumping and piping equipment for other the interior planning, companies across reliable partners and suppliers in China, Singapore, mainland China and Sri Osaka Sanitary offers utmost safety, mouth, it has to be exceptionally clean.” fields, such as medicine, while the globe can continue to focus on South Korea and Singapore. Carrying Lanka. With the demand for cruise efficiency and environment-friendly Driven by its pioneering spirit, the developing solutions that use less water developing the next-generation out more than 300 ships’ turnkey vessels continuing to grow in Greater features. company continued to develop for cleaning. solutions for the maritime industry. projects annually, the company holds China and Europe, NSS hopes to reach “Our products and facilities play equipment that promotes production “We want to try something new given Established in 1943 as Nagasaki more than 60 per cent of the market more customers with its expanding a vital role in people’s safety and health, efficiency. It was among the first suppliers our success in the food and beverage Kansen Sobi, the company initially share in Japan, and it aims to raise this geographical scope. which are indispensable components in to come up with pumping and piping industry,” Uno says. “Given the specialised in furniture manufacturing figure to 90 per cent by its 100th “Our company’s shape is infinite. equipment that could be easily tremendous growth across the for warship interiors. It changed its anniversary. We want to keep growing and disassembled. This feature has enabled pharmaceutical industry, we have started name in 1946 to Nagasaki Sempaku Sobi “We work closely with our clients to innovating with our clients and factories to save time on cleaning and to focus our sights more on this area.” (NSS) and it expanded its business focus Kazutaka Akiyoshi, president ensure that we meet varying regulatory partners,” Akiyoshi says. putting back together the equipment after Osaka Sanitary is similarly optimistic every manufacturing batch. with the expansion of its geographical Osaka Sanitary’s inquisitiveness did reach as it aims to raise its international not stop there as its in-house research and sales, which account for only about 10 per development team has again come up cent of overall revenues at present. with another breakthrough innovation Following Japanese clients as they HERITAGE BRAND FUKUTARO called outstanding surface pipe or “OS expand overseas, Osaka Sanitary sees pipe” technology. opportunities in other Asian countries “In the past, you had to take down the beginning in China. PUTS COD ROE ON THE MAP equipment one by one and use a brush to “We want to work with more clean each component,” Uno says. “We international sales representatives and When talking about Fukuoka and its food delicacies using spiced cod roe to offer the menbei: spiced cod roe-flavoured have developed a way to keep the slurry engineers as we grow into markets specialities, steaming bowls of flavourful consumers an authentic taste of Japan. potato starch crackers available in a or any liquid from sticking to the insides of outside Japan,” Uno says. “We want to hakata tonkotsu ramen immediately Initially a cooking oil and condiments variety of flavours including leek, onion, the equipment. This outstanding share with the rest of the world our come to mind. Yamaguchi Aburaya wholesaler, Fukutaro was among the bonito and more. Beyond cod roe, technology provides a sort of automatic distinct concept of safety, health, Fukutaro has spent over a century cornerstones of many companies in Fukutaro is developing a green tea paste, Tomosaburo Uno, president cleaning system, which raises the level of efficiency and environment protection.” perfecting other signature Fukuoka Fukuoka’s thriving food industry. which is conveniently packaged and Aspiring to diversify its business, does not turn brown when oxidised, Fukutaro banked on Fukuoka’s rich holding its green colour in food products. bounty from the sea and developed While cod roe is widely popular Hiroyuki Tanaka, vice-president its own spiced cod roe recipe. in Japan and the rest of Asia, other and representative director “We try to introduce many products countries have yet to discover this prized locally and internationally. We’re ingredient. Fukutaro aims to change this looking for speciality products that really by partnering with restaurants abroad this year, Fukutaro envisions a stronger showcase the strengths of the Kyushu to develop ways of localising and brand locally and internationally. area,” says vice-president and incorporating cod roe in various cuisines. “We are marketing our products abroad, representative director Hiroyuki Tanaka. The company also aims to join food but for us, it is equally important to Fukutaro harnessed the rich taste exhibitions. It likewise seeks partners remind the younger generations of cod roe and imbued it into products in Hong Kong and other Asian markets about mentaiko being part of our such as sardines, ramen noodles and to expand its distribution network. culture. Fukutaro is a heritage brand,” bread. Among its bestselling products is Celebrating its 110th anniversary Tanaka says. TAITEC STEPS FORWARD IN SPREADING REVOLUTIONARY INCUBATION TECHNOLOGY IN CHINA AND THE REST OF ASIA With a 5 per cent growth rate forecast credibility from our outstanding after- institutions, including University of through 2020, Asia and Australasia are sales service,” says Taitec president Tokyo. currently the fastest-growing health care Ayako Sakashita. Ready to explore new territories, the markets in the world. Japan, in particular, Known for its high-quality, durable Japanese company is set to bring its ranks next to the United States among and cost-efficient incubator shakers, latest revolutionary technology in the largest markets for pharmaceuticals Taitec has also become the go-to partner vaccine production with the eco-friendly and medical devices. To capitalise on the of research laboratories of various large biotech incubator shaker. Primarily market’s huge potential, life science private companies and academic introducing this product through an companies are moving quickly, led by exclusive distribution partnership in industry experts such as Taitec, Japan’s mainland China, Taitec also eyes more leading manufacturer of instruments for distribution partners from India, Taiwan, life science and environmental tests. South Korea, Hong Kong and Southeast From manufacturing glass Asia. apparatus for chemical and scientific With overseas sales comprising 20 experiments when it was established in per cent of its overall revenues, the 1942, Taitec has grown to offer more company is working its way to expand than 200 products. It now corners more the reach of its cutting-edge technologies than 50 per cent of the market share, and and double its international distribution has mastered and simplified the process in the next five years. of incubation using the basic “Our focus is to grow overseas and technologies of temperature control and to capture the food and chemical shaking. industries. We are also open to “Incubator shakers are our main collaborating with research institutions products, but our work has always been sharing similar values and vision,” customer-centred. We gained our Ayako Sakashita, president Sakashita says. DRG EXTENDS WORLD-CLASS CONTENT CREATION EXPERTISE With more than 4000 clients and almost message to potential customers, analysis, reporting, correspondence, two decades of experience in premium partners and investors globally with production and writing. It is also backed content creation, Discovery Reports utmost clarity, conciseness and polish.” by DRG’s expertise in connecting global Group (DRG) has launched Discovery Discovery Communications offers businesses with a strong Asian Communications, a content writing professional and comprehensive readership of potential investors, services division dedicated to helping content creation – including editorial partners, distributors and clients. clients create relevant messaging and support for all corporate publications “We have worked with companies branding. Discovery Communications from web content, press releases, across many industries, from collaborates with clients to develop brochures and newsletters to annual engineering, logistics and finance to targeted content. reports and company presentations. It education and consumer goods. “Effective communication is key in guarantees high-quality and high-value Discovery Communications aims to this era when everyone has access to content adhering to international help clients articulate their ideas information instantly,” says Angela standards of editorial excellence. effectively to engage their target Gaspar, DRG’s managing partner. “At The new business division audience,” Gaspar says. “Our clients Discovery Communications, we help leverages on the group’s best-in-class can focus on their core operations and our Japanese clients convey their team of professionals in research, leave the writing to us.” Friday, February 1, 2019 S3 ¢ JAPAN BUSINESS REPORT ¢ Sponsored section in cooperation with Discovery Reports NIHON KOSO STRENGTHENS GLOBAL REACH WITH ACQUISITION OF PARCOL’S CONTROL VALVE BUSINESS

teered by its commitment to biggest names have come to trust bring the highest technical Nihon KOSO for the design and There is virtually capabilities to the global manufacture of high-performance no product that industrial valve market, Nihon valves to tackle some of their biggest KOSO – a world leader in valve challenges. In the oil and gas industry, we do not Smanufacturing and engineering – one of the primary sectors served by completed the acquisition of the control Nihon KOSO since inception, the produce in the valve business of Italy’s Parcol in June last Tokyo-based company has supplied field of control year. With more than 60 years of expertise, valves to several offshore and Parcol bolsters the global competitive numerous onshore installations for use valves strength of the KOSO brand, particularly in in the processing of liquefied natural Europe where the Parcol name is highly gas, liquefied petroleum gas, refinery Yuichi Ikegaya, CEO respected for its consistent product products, petrochemicals and quality. derivatives. what they need when they need it, “Through acquisitions, we gain All products are made from the best Nihon KOSO has adopted a just-in-time added business and technological materials – from small- to large-sized policy in its production plants. Exports know-how that we always bring back to valves, used in low and high pressures, account for more than 80 per cent of Asia to help in the advancement of cryogenic to super-critical high sales, with products shipped to Europe, regional manufacturers,” says CEO temperatures and handling of a variety the Americas, the Middle East and Asia. Yuichi Ikegaya. “Asia continues to be of exotic fluids – under the name of “Our unceasing commitment to one of our key markets, and it has been “Made in KOSO”. Meeting the most pursuing advanced technology stems our goal to grow with our partners in stringent quality requirements, these from our creative spirit that flows the region.” are made in two Nihon KOSO-owned throughout the organisation,” Ikegaya Since its foundation in 1965, Nihon foundries and manufacturing facilities says. “We continue to challenge KOSO has produced numerous located in Japan, China, South Korea, ourselves to meet our clients’ diverse technological breakthroughs that India, Britain, Italy, Oman and the and ever-changing needs. There is contribute to process automation in United States. As a comprehensive virtually no product that we do not various fields of industry, including the manufacturer of automation devices, produce in the field of control valves as oil and gas, petrochemical, power Nihon KOSO also offers actuators, we’ve expanded our portfolio to generation, industrial and valve accessories, sensors and respond to the automation manufacturing businesses. In each of instrumental equipment. requirements of any scale in all fields of these sectors, many of the world’s To guarantee that clients receive industry. We can say that our technological prowess in this field is unmatched globally – making that our most important competitive edge.” Market development and product innovation have been the pursued goals of Nihon KOSO for a long time. The broader market prospects have been brought to Nihon KOSO as a result of today’s globalised market. The continuous innovation of products towards better, faster and more advanced platforms has created a solid foundation for its business. Additionally, the high-end valves used globally for high-temperature, high- pressure and severe service applications have resulted in a substantial qualitative leap. Artificial intelligence, internet of things, cloud computing and big data create an unprecedented era for the company. Nihon KOSO has produced a series of high-end, intelligent instruments, which are devoted to serving the times, and have allowed the company to become the first intelligent valve manufacturer in the industry. This also brings Nihon KOSO to the forefront of the smart factory. “We regard product quality as the lifeline of the enterprise,” Ikegaya says. “The casted KOSO brand stands for premium quality. We will always hold quality as our priority and produce safe, Three-lever switch valve reliable, high-performance products.” FEEL HEALTHY AND LIVE LIFE TO THE FULLEST WITH FORDAYS In recent years, concern that modern diets are lacking in nutrients vital to the Fordays is maintenance of good health has driven taking its exponential growth in demand for dietary supplements. Fordays, one of top-selling Japan’s leading supplement companies, has found success by products developing supplements that support and good health at the most fundamental level – the genetic level. rewarding Established in 1997, Fordays is the third-largest multilevel marketing business company in Japan, with annual sales model to surpassing 42 billion yen (HK$3 billion) in 2017. The face-to-face nature of overseas multilevel marketing has been crucial to Fordays’ success, enabling it to build a markets tight-knit community of more than 280,000 members and realise continued revenue growth for nearly two decades. Keiko Wada, president “Based on the latest science, we create products that support peoples’ physical well-being, while at the same product at the cutting edge of acids and methods of synergising time providing them with an nutritional science. Now in its eighth ingredients. Wada expressed a desire opportunity to achieve greater financial iteration, Natural DN Collagen to build similar partnerships with independence by sharing their passion continues to be one of the top-selling universities and research institutes for Fordays products with others. supplements in Japan, with average across Asia and to conduct research We want to help people live life to monthly sales of 300,000 bottles and into the major health issues affecting the fullest,” says Fordays president cumulative sales projected to exceed people in the region, such as cancer, Keiko Wada. 60 million bottles by middle of the year. diabetes and hypertension. The product that put Fordays on the Spurred on by the success of Looking to capitalise on its success map is Natural DN Collagen, a nucleic Natural DN Collagen, Fordays has in the Japan market, Fordays is taking acid-based supplement drink invested heavily in R&D, leading to the its top-selling products and rewarding containing deoxyribose nucleic acid, development of numerous outstanding business model to overseas markets. ribonucleic acid and an optimal balance dietary supplements, as well as an With operations already established in of other high-quality ingredients that extensive range of skincare products Hong Kong, Taiwan, South Korea and support good health. Since its and cosmetics. the Philippines, and offices due to open introduction in 1999, Natural DN Fordays collaborates with in Malaysia, Vietnam and Thailand in Collagen has been reformulated on universities locally and abroad to the coming months, the future looks numerous occasions to keep the discover new applications for nucleic bright for Fordays. S4 Friday, February 1, 2019 ¢ ¢ Sponsored section in cooperation JAPAN BUSINESS REPORT with Discovery Reports KOSEI PHARMACEUTICAL SATAKE PRECISION SAFEGUARDS STEADY SUPPLY TECHNOLOGY FINDS NICHE OF LOW-COST GENERIC DRUGS A pharmaceutical drug takes a complex its own generic drug production facility export and manufacturing activities route before it reaches a pharmacy, in 2013. The company has since garnered efficiently, depending on what the GROWTH MARKET WITH hospital or physician. To penetrate one of 40 pharmaceutical licences and aims to customer requires.” Japan’s 60,000 general pharmacies, for increase its product line-up to 200 within Led by third-generation family instance, a drug goes through primary, the year. owners, Kosei Pharmaceutical nurtures secondary and tertiary wholesalers. Each “As an independent, medium-sized an online business stream apart from level adds margins that make medicines company, we can move quickly,” says subsidiaries in India and Germany to TACTILE SENSORS FOR more expensive for markets worldwide. Kohei Toda, managing director of Kosei further expand its reach. With 10,000 types To ease the burden of customers and Pharm Group. “We can take on import, of hospital-use medications in its portfolio, patients, Kosei Pharmaceutical focuses Kosei Pharmaceutical offers a fast and on building an efficient system for stable one-stop solution for customers. pharmaceutical distribution. By Partnerships are in place in China, CONSUMER ROBOTICS collaborating with knowledgeable and Vietnam, Indonesia and Nigeria to grow well-connected distribution partners, its overseas sales, which are targeted the region’s leading pharmaceutical to reach 200 billion yen (HK$13.78 billion) s a supplier of precision processing. Leveraging tie-ups with more wholesaler and manufacturer ensures by 2021. mechanical components with than 60 specialised manufacturing a stable supply of safe, high-quality and Kosei Pharmaceutical is putting more than 80 years of companies in Japan and overseas, Satake low-cost pharmaceutical products. significant resources into research and expertise, Satake Precision satisfies the changing requirements of its Established as a drug wholesaler in development activities. It seeks to create Technology continues to customers, ranging from high-mix, low- 1952, Kosei Pharmaceutical expanded new Kosei Pharma-branded generic drugs Achallenge itself and evolve to respond to volume production and prototype design its borders in 2010 when it set up its in cooperation with industry players the constantly changing landscape of to mass production. Through a proven subsidiary Kosei Pharma in Britain to and universities. modern manufacturing and customer integrated manufacturing process at its develop its import business. Enjoying “We’re strengthening our network to needs. Working towards the vision of in-house factory, Satake can handle more huge growth, Kosei Pharmaceutical keep prices competitive and showcase company president Kenichi Ogata, Satake than 3,000 components on a short lead entered the manufacturing space and built Kohei Toda, managing director our integrity and reliability,” Toda says. has strengthened its factory automation time, one-by-one production basis to fulfil (FA) business to help production facilities same-day delivery. transition to smart components and smart machines while increasing its focus on consumer robotics as a new area of Changing expansion. NOGAWA CHEMICAL ADVANCES “When I assumed the leadership in lifestyles will 2009, I restructured the company and changed our business model so that we drive new HIGH-PERFORMANCE SEALANTS can be flexible and agile in finding new market opportunities in up and coming markets,” Ogata says. “We initially shifted to demands and FOR ASIA’S BUILD-UP manufacturing factory automation components, but seeing that the Kenichi Ogata, president opportunities Generations of Shinkansen coaches of adhesives under the Diabond brand for distribution in China and establishing a industrial robotics market will soon hit its Kenichi Ogata, president showcase the evolution of high- used in the electronics equipment, footprint in Vietnam. Research and peak, we have ventured into the next performance sealants pioneered by shoemaking and the building and development collaborations with industry growing market – consumer robotics.” potential applications in sporting complementary expertise. To make Nogawa Chemical in the 1950s. An construction industries. It is a recognised players and universities globally are also Apart from its well-established apparatus, daily living support, nursing inroads into the field of robot awareness Through another subsidiary Sanko enabling material for noise insulation, original equipment manufacturer (OEM) welcome. custom-made metal processing business, care, automobiles and virtual gaming. and control technology, Satake has a Kogyo, Satake specialises in making ultra- high-performance sealants have helped in the adhesives and sealants industry, “We’d like to expand more Satake is strengthening its body of work Touchence’s dedicated engineering team continuing research alliance with the high precision fittings for manufacturing ensure passenger safety and comfort ever with about 20 per cent of the company’s internationally, starting with Southeast on robotics for non-manufacturing can also customise sensor modules to University of Tokyo. semiconductors, ultra-high vacuum since Japan’s bullet trains came to business involving OEM production. Asia’s massive infrastructure build-up,” purposes through its subsidiary specific customer requirements. “With the sensor business, open products and liquid crystal displays. commercial operation in 1964. “We develop customised formulas Nogawa says. Touchence. The Tokyo-based company “Changing lifestyles will drive new innovation is a must,” Ogata says. “We’re Using the ultra-clean technology it has “Our product is the sealant used for based on customers’ specific needs, sees the consumer robots market as the market demands and opportunities for looking for partners with strong R&D developed and refined for more than 25 the window shields in all of the focusing on industrial applications. For next stage in the FA market. Touchence, a consumer robotics,” Ogata says. “In capabilities and willingness to grow with years, Sanko Kogyo offers revolutionary Shinkansen coaches. It has proven reliable instance, we have made special sensor development company, offers the Japan, the ageing population is us in unprecedented markets. We hope to products that are valued by a wide range with zero incidents from those windows formulations of adhesives and sealant to world’s first tactile sensors that can detect increasing the need for automation in find research partners based in Hong of customers because of their technical since 1964. That’s why even now, our improve fatigue performance or our three-dimensional deformation and have everyday life, while globally, driverless Kong, Shenzhen, Dongguan, Singapore strength and reliability. product is used for all of the window laboratory makes a new formula for a a naturally soft and flexible texture. cars, smart wearables in apparel and and Silicon Valley, which are all “We’re among the few to support shields – 100 per cent,” says Takayuki difficult-to-adhere material such as With technology licensed from the medical/health monitoring are gaining prominent places for innovation.” high-mix, low-volume and short lead time Nogawa, president. polypropylene plastic. We get detailed University of Tokyo, Touchence has traction.” Starting in 1937 as a manufacturer of production,” Ogata says. “This highlights Known in the market as Diabond and information from the customers for these developed the thinnest, smallest and Responding flexibly through fastening components such as nuts and our commitment as a reliable, trusted Sealing Master, Nogawa Chemical’s customised formulas,” Nogawa says. lightest sensors that can measure forces innovations to match the new era, Satake bolts, Satake now offers full-fledged partner to our customers. We hope to polysulfide rubber, silicone and modified Having acquired IRIS (International along three axes, and can be mass pursues research and development (R&D) production and quality control capability bring this advantage to more of Southeast silicone high-performance sealants are Railway Industry Standard) certification in produced at low costs. In addition to collaborations with Japanese universities for precision mechanical components Asia through additional customer and extensively used by first-tier 2017, Nogawa Chemical has raised its consumer robots, these sensors have and leading industry players with with a focus on metal component distribution partners.” manufacturers of cars and rolling stock in competitiveness as a supplier for Japan and China, where the company European rail systems and to the rest of opened a subsidiary in 1994. Nogawa the global market. The company invites Chemical also manufactures a wide range partnerships throughout Asia, especially Takayuki Nogawa, president TOGAWA INDUSTRY PROVES THE BUSINESS IMPERATIVE OF RESPONDING TO MARKET CHANGE From its establishment in 1959 as a its total sales within the next three to five recognition and strong distributorship in manufacturer of environment-friendly years. Togawa’s domestic sales account Asia, particularly in Indonesia, Thailand plastic hoses, Togawa Industry has for 90 per cent of total sales. With a reach and India. managed to adapt its diverse range of that covers mainland China, Indonesia, Aside from improving its distribution product offerings based on the ever- Thailand, Taiwan, the Philippines, and reach, Togawa also focuses on changing needs of its clients. Known for Vietnam, Malaysia, India and Singapore, enhancing its expertise by harnessing its serving the agricultural, public works, the company aims to establish solid brand technologies and technical capabilities in automotive, construction, semiconductor, order to continually provide new products home electronics and food industries in and solutions. the past 60 years, the Japanese The company will be adding a new manufacturer possesses long-term industrial hose that boasts durability relationships with customers such as against high pressure and heat, a new Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Sharp, Panasonic painting hose and a new foaming hose to and Hitachi. its wide array of hose solutions, which are “The market needs change through superior in flexibility, transparency, time, and we manage to evolve fast pressure resistance, negative pressure enough to deliver the modified resistance and oil resistance. requirements,” says president Ikuo Togawa prides itself on its highly Yokota. “And while our customers plan to competent research and development expand outside Japan, we at Togawa are team in Japan, while also welcoming following through to address such strategic partnerships. “We are also development.” interested in cooperating with research Having the imperative of responding centres and government organisations in to customers expanding internationally, order to improve our latest technologies,” the industrial hose producer aims to grow Ikuo Yokota, president Yokota says. OPPEN OPENS DOORS FOR INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS WITH TOTAL BEAUTY PHILOSOPHY For Oppen Cosmetics, beauty is not just products. One of Oppen’s research studies from other cosmetics companies looking skin-deep. For the skincare and cosmetics looked into the effect on anti-ageing of a for an honest partner who can provide expert, looking good and feeling good go blue flower locally grown in the Shiga high-quality products. To date, it works hand in hand, and this is the driving force prefecture. with an Asian partner with an extensive behind Oppen’s commitment to The company’s breakthrough sales channel in the region, and Oppen developing high-quality products that findings show that it can slow the hopes that this partnership will open promote total healthy beauty. degradation of collagen, thus resulting in doors to Asian markets. Oppen celebrated its 65th anniversary more supple skin. This flower extract is a last year, continuing to specialise in basic key ingredient in the Yakuyou Tae line. and anti-ageing skincare solutions. Oppen has also discovered that another Complementing its skincare ranges, species of this blue flower has an effect on Oppen also develops and manufactures photoaging and has incorporated it in a high-quality make-up lines. Moving new product line released last year. deeper into the beauty regimen, Oppen Oppen has always believed that the targets inner beauty with its health food personal approach is the best way to supplements. conduct business, and this is why it “If you see our long-time, loyal leverages a network of sales personnel customers, you can never guess their real instead of going the traditional ages. These customers are living proof of department store retail route. In doing so, the efficacy of our products,” says the highly trained distributors can best president Teruaki Takikawa. advise the customers about what products A cutting-edge beauty company with would suit them the most. multiple patents, Oppen has ongoing Eyeing international expansion, research initiatives to develop innovative Oppen aims to fulfil OEM and ODM orders Teruaki Takikawa, president Friday, February 1, 2019 S5 ¢ ¢ Sponsored section in cooperation JAPAN BUSINESS REPORT with Discovery Reports SANKYO SEISAKUSHO PROVIDES STEPPING SHOWA GLOVE STONE FOR CONTINUES TO CUSTOMERS’ REVOLUTIONISE THE SUCCESS HAND PROTECTION Innovation is what keeps the world moving forward, but without the right technology to support its development, brilliant concepts will only remain concepts. This is what fuels Sankyo SOLUTIONS MARKET Shuji Kondo, president and group CEO Seisakusho to become the engine of growth that moves companies forward with its cutting-edge automation tanding out means consistently the spirit of SHOWA GLOVE.” SHOWA GLOVE has 100 per cent control Americas. The company ventured into “We’re quite new in the Asian technology which helps turn ideas into delivering distinctive Since its inception, SHOWA GLOVE over each step of the manufacturing Asia in the early 2000s, and it is seeing the market,” Kondo says. “We realise that we reality. technological breakthroughs: a has been the market leader in Japan, process, from the hand mould to immense growth potential in the region, can expect much more from the region if “Rather than catching up with the feat that SHOWA GLOVE accounting for more than 40 per cent of production through marketing, to especially with the adoption of more we can get more people to see the global manufacturing industry trends, continues to achieve since gloves worn by professionals and achieve a high standard of quality. stringent industry regulations to superior quality, flexibility and durability we strive to be at the forefront of the Hiroumi Ogawa, owner and Sinventing the world’s first fully coated individual consumers. Key to its success SHOWA GLOVE expanded its reach minimise occupational hazards. SHOWA of our gloves. Our trusted distributors global movement. Being an industry president polyvinyl chloride (PVC) household glove is its fully owned and integrated to the international market in the early GLOVE’s innovative products are play a key role in this initiative and in the leader is part of our company policy to in 1954. With more than six decades of manufacturing operations. With nine 1990s and has been achieving increasing available through its strong distribution development of high-level protective ensure our continuous growth,” says accumulated expertise, SHOWA GLOVE production facilities across the globe, success, particularly in Europe and the partners located everywhere in the world. products.” Sankyo Seisakusho owner and Supporting many industries such has emerged as a global manufacturing president Hiroumi Ogawa. as electronics, semiconductors and powerhouse in the hand protection Born right in the midst of Japan’s precision machinery, among others, industry. Beyond the household, its high- rapid industrialisation, Sankyo Sankyo Seisakusho sees great quality protective gloves have proved Seisakusho possesses an innate opportunities to develop new products invaluable to diverse industries, ranging understanding and knowledge of the to accommodate new technologies from automotive, construction, food manufacturing industry like no other such as electric vehicles, 5G networks, service, health care, oil and chemicals, company. robotics and internet of things. The general manufacturing to commercial As a forward-thinking company, company is in the process of fishing. Sankyo Seisakusho has an intensive developing a small-sized speed reducer At the leading edge of hand research and development in an effort to adapt its products for protection advances, SHOWA GLOVE programme. It collaborates with these new applications. has produced many firsts that universities to gain fresh insights from In its drive to be ahead of the revolutionised the industry, including students and faculty. The company also competition, the company is expanding polyurethane gloves for the hi-tech works closely with its customers to its supply and production capacity by market, 100 per cent nitrile, latex-free understand their demands and adapt its increasing its investments in China and gloves, biodegradable disposable gloves solutions to their needs accordingly. Vietnam. Sankyo Seisakusho aims to and latex foam gloves with breathable The company’s core technology is double its production output within and waterproof technology. Today, its the roller gear cam, which was three years to cater to the imminent valued-added portfolio consists of more developed in the 1970s. Since then, it demands brought about by new trends. than 200 types of gloves for a vast array of has been modernised, improved and Sankyo Seisakusho is eyeing India household and industrial applications. integrated into new products such as and Europe as its next big markets, and This year, SHOWA GLOVE is set to unveil the RollerDrive precision reducers, it is opening its doors to partnerships a new addition to its cut-resistant glove Sandex indexing systems, Variax press with distribution companies that can range, which is the industry’s fastest- material feeders, and other machine help it gain traction there. growing category, driven by rising tool products. “Something that we’ve always worker safety concerns. Sankyo Seisakusho is the leading done and will never change is striving “We have built a solid reputation for name when it comes to precision parts to help customers become more innovation and originality,” says Shuji manufacturing devices that deliver efficient. We want to be a part of many Kondo, president and group CEO. advanced performance and more companies’ success stories,” “Always innovating and never imitating outstanding reliability. Ogawa says. is a foundational belief that encapsulates SHOWA DENKI RAISES BRAND TO THE GLOBAL STAGE WITH JAPANESE QUALITY BLOWERS Venturing outside a home market can be a daunting endeavour, but when a company specialises in products that help raise the operational productivity of many industries, it becomes less of a risk and turns to an effective strategy. This is exactly what Japanese firm Showa Denki has accomplished. Taking its solid portfolio of electric blowers, environmental equipment and dust collectors, Showa Denki expanded its horizons – initially to Thailand and eventually the rest of the globe. The company first ventured beyond Japan in 2010 and has since continued to Kensaku Kashiwagi, CEO strengthen its presence internationally. “We want the rest of the world to see the difference our products can make. specific market demands. The company to new products and solutions. Additionally, I want them to experience also built a network of distributors to Kashiwagi is the visionary that magokoro, a uniquely Japanese way serve the Americas, Europe, the Middle masterminded Showa Denki’s of showing hospitality and sincerity East and Asia as Showa Denki attracts expansion to Thailand. A seasoned from the bottom of our hearts,” says increasingly more attention from global fisherman with a passion for exploration, CEO Kensaku Kashiwagi. automotive manufacturers. he frequently travelled to Thailand for Building on its 69-year-long In extending its geographical scope, fishing expeditions, and it was during experience serving local manufacturers, Showa Denki broadened its offerings to these trips that he realised the potential Showa Denki established a subsidiary become a fully integrated provider for Showa Denki to contribute to the office and warehouse in Thailand to offering after-sales service. “We are first growth of the automotive industry in the serve the robust automotive and foremost a manufacturing company, country. manufacturing industry in the country. but we also want to push a ‘solutions As a pioneering figure for the Its products are also used in the idea’ business. We want to help our company, he is also the man behind the pharmaceutical, electronics and food customers come up with solutions to company’s foray into boat distribution. beverage sectors. their requirements,” Kashiwagi says. Kashiwagi turned his passions into a new Showa Denki moved next to Taiwan Showa Denki welcomes enterprise for the company. With this and South Korea to better support its partnerships with universities, research new business, Showa Denki imports clients’ business outside Japan and to centres, environmental organisations boats from the United States for local collaborate with locals in addressing and government agencies that can lead distribution. ICHIEI FOODS BUILDS LOYALTY AROUND UNCONVENTIONAL AND FUN SNACKS Authentic Japanese food has an which Ichiei has innovated with Amaou international following that transcends strawberries and Yame matcha from trends or borders given its association Fukuoka – are party favourites. Wasabi- with healthy eating. For snack flavoured snacks – beans and cutlets, manufacturer Ichiei Foods, the affinity is cheese or fresh scallops dipped in more personal because it comes to the wasabi – have likewise gained market with clever word play and popularity in Hong Kong, Taiwan and Eiichi Ikeda, founder and unexpected products that evoke South Korea. president merriment. “Our products are created for “We would like to have that factor of children but can also be enjoyed by humour and dream in our products, and adults over drinks. That unexpectedness “Innovation is everything. It’s been above all, satisfy the craving for is something we’re known for,” says 26 years since our foundation, but year authentic Japanese delicacy,” says Ikeda, whose lighthearted approach to by year, our core products are different,” Eiichi Ikeda, founder and president. creating bestsellers was featured on Ikeda says. Ichiei snacks have a cult following in Japanese television in March. The Ichiei founder welcomes Japan. Marine delicacies Yokattara, Ichiei seeks to expand its rich reliable distributors that can bring his which combines the Japanese terms for resource of raw ingredients to sustain its bestsellers to mainland China, the squid, cod and “if you please” and prolific launch of new products and United States and all across Asia Aisurume, a snack that pays homage to flavours. The company’s facilities are through speciality channels such as women, are staple items in senior citizen equipped to produce snacks from raw health food shops or children’s and meetings. Meanwhile, multiflavoured ingredients as diverse as scallops and duty-free stores. Trusted partnerships baked scallop snacks, dried sour plums smoked quail eggs using the same are most important to Ikeda in tackling and dorayaki – sweet-filled pancakes techniques. the company’s market expansion. S6 Friday, February 1, 2019 ¢ ¢ Sponsored section in cooperation JAPAN BUSINESS REPORT with Discovery Reports TEXTILE SUPPLIER TOYAMA FUTAMURA CHEMICAL’S MAXIMISES CUSTOMER FOCUSED GROWTH SATISFACTION IN NICHE DELIVERS ENDLESS HIGH-FASHION MARKET In the highly fragmented global textiles apparel makers in Japan and overseas, the sasawashi fabric, an innovative market, Toyama has built an excellent and is valued for helping clients come up material woven from the Japanese track record as a supplier of high-fashion with concepts for their new product lines. traditional plant, washi. This eco-friendly fabrics, with almost a century and a half of Its wool materials business also forms a fabric is infused with antibacterial and BENEFITS TO CLIENTS expertise. Founded in 1877 as a family- significant part of its operations, with natural-deodorising properties and owned cotton yarn business, Toyama has Toyama being among the top Japanese provides good ultraviolet protection. become a trusted partner to leading exporters to the United States. Meanwhile, Toyama’s silky powder ocus makes perfect. Such is the “We foresee substantial growth in companies capable of developing “We’ve stayed competitive not only fabrics, noted for their anti-electrostatic case of Futamura Chemical, our activated carbon and cellulose products to be sold in Asia, especially in by focusing on quality and on-time and wrinkle-free attributes, have gained a which for nearly 70 years has businesses as we uncover new China and India. delivery, but by keeping abreast and following among European high-fashion concentrated its efforts on being applications and markets over the next For its cellulose film segment, adaptable to perpetually moving sector brands. the best in three product three to five years,” Nagae says. Futamura will use the wealth of trends,” says Takuro Toyama, CEO and “We aim to strengthen our presence Fcategories – plastic film for packaging, For activated carbon, the company technology it has accumulated thus far ninth generation of family management. in the European market to help boost our cellulose film which is drawing public is working with several Japanese and the distinct cellulose processing “While constantly changing with the reputation as a reliable supplier in Asia, attention for its biodegradability, and universities to pursue the development technology it has newly developed to market, we’ve remained true to our primarily to Chinese apparel makers,” activated carbon used in water and gas of new technologies and products. accelerate the development of not only founding principles of sincerity, ingenuity Takuro Toyama says. filtration. Futamura is also promoting initiatives film but of cellulose products with and consonance.” With the growing popularity of smart “Our emphasis on areas where we for the practical application of lead distinctive functions. Sourcing first-class raw materials and athleisure clothing, Toyama seeks to have already established a distinct removing agents and solid acid Futamura welcomes partners who from all over the world while closely develop technologies to adapt to these advantage in terms of quality, catalysts. Moreover, in the field of share its corporate philosophy that working with quality-focused Japanese emerging trends and welcomes technology and production capability molecular sieving carbon that has values long-term growth founded on spinning mills, weavers and dye opportunities to collaborate with other significantly benefits our clients,” says molecule filtering functions, the genuine relationships. It has cultivated workshops, Toyama continues to develop textile manufacturers and fashion brands. president Yasuo Nagae. company has entered the equipment such relationships early on. Since its differentiated textile products, including It is also open to strategic partnerships to In the plastic film for packaging business by acquiring Adsorption inception, the industry expert has stood wools, cotton yarns and polyester fibres. move into new applications such as business, where Futamura holds the Technology Industries (Adsotech). on the principle that the company exists Takuro Toyama, CEO A recent offering from the company is household textiles. leading market share in Japan, the Yasuo Nagae, president With an advantage in air separation to ensure the daily lives of the people company’s flexible production facilities, Adsotech is also involved in working for it. capabilities and huge inventories across the treatment facilities for effluents and “We do not really worry about the country ensure next-day delivery for plastic films they need, even for sudden exhaust gas, using ozone efficiently. short-term revenues, but seek partners most orders. As a result, clients no orders. Futamura has been highly Futamura strives to enhance its with whom we can build lasting longer need to carry large amounts of acclaimed as the key to the stable cooperation with reliable suppliers of relationships,” Nagae says. “For us, MIYAZAKI’S WIRE stock and can immediately receive the supply of plastic films in Japan. high-quality raw materials and with building a family is key.” MACHINES RAISE ANGES OPEN FOR PARTNERSHIP TO PRODUCTIVITY REMAIN A HERO IN GENE THERAPY ACROSS INDUSTRIES Renowned in Japan for high-performing Sumitomo Metal, JFE Steel, Kobe Steel, Biotech venture company AnGes is biopharmaceuticals such as genetic vascular flow in limbs is severely wire forming machines, Miyazaki Sumitomo Electric, Hitachi Metals and readying itself for another era in its long- medicines, and aim to achieve practical compromised. Machinery Systems cuts across industries other industries whose overseas forays Kazuaki Miyazaki, president established history in the life science use of new drugs.” Other ongoing projects include the with technology that is rooted in a total were supported by speciality machines industry of Japan. With the ageing of the Since its establishment in 1999, development of nucleic-acid drug NF-kB commitment to quality. designed by Miyazaki engineers to Japanese population and the AnGes has been collaborating with decoy oligonucleotide with the “Because of the demanding precision requirements. It also cables; electric wires, parts used in demographic shrinkage in the country, various organisations and universities, University of California San Diego, and requirement of the Japanese market, we collaborates with Tokyo’s University of vehicles, fasteners, appliances, electronic Japan has become a life science including Osaka University and Stanford the DNA vaccine as the new type of have reached 90 per cent domestic market Electro-Communications and Vesuvius products and communication systems; laboratory for pharmaceutical University. Its plans of commercialising therapeutic vaccine of genetic medicine. share for our combined drawing McDonnell. and structural wire ropes. companies and a model of innovation its developments are set to roll out this While forging alliances to continue machines. Globally, no other company “We can present various proposals to Miyazaki machines are increasingly for the rest of the world. year, upon the conditional approval of being a global innovator in the field of can provide the high quality of these any industry based on our successful being used in the automotive and heavy “AnGes looks forward to a future of its breakthrough gene therapy drug, the gene medicine, AnGes is also planning machines,” says Kazuaki Miyazaki, history of innovation in this niche industries across China and Southeast improving human health and quality of Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF) to expand its reach worldwide. president. A family-owned business that business,” Miyazaki says. Asia. In China alone, up to 2.4 million life through pioneering in the plasmid discovered by professor Ryuichi The global gene therapy market is traces its roots to 17th century Japanese As the only comprehensive wire vehicles – whether hybrid, electric or development of innovative medicines,” Morishita, founder of AnGes. The drug growing. To keep pace with the expected metalworking, Miyazaki Machinery forming machine maker in Japan, internal-combustion engine – are says president and CEO Dr Ei Yamada. promotes revascularisation, and has industry growth, AnGes understands Systems is celebrating its 75th Miyazaki Machinery Systems is the equipped with control cables, fasteners or “We focus on research and been filed for approval as a treatment for that it has to keep the company open for anniversary this year with a newly highest-level provider of integrated springs made by Miyazaki machines. The Dr Ei Yamada, president and CEO development (R&D) of next-generation Critical Limb Ischemia in which the investments. renovated headquarters in Osaka and a systems for combined drawing machine company is keen on doing the same for trading subsidiary in Shanghai that is (coil to bar) and wire drawing machine the home appliance industry. turning 10 years old. (coil to coil) and wire stranding machines. “We want to keep giving our The company has long-standing Equipped with the latest microprocessor- customers the support and raise our relationships with well-known Japanese based control systems, these machines service level to satisfy their needs companies such as Nippon Steel & produce the high-quality wire for power anywhere in the world,” Miyazaki says. FJ HOTELS ENSURES LEISURELY AND STRESS-FREE STAYS AT HYATT AND HOME-GROWN FORZA HOTELS Steadily gaining prominence among managing the 5-star Grand Hyatt and the tourists from South Korea, Taiwan and 4-star Hyatt Regency in Fukuoka. This Hong Kong, Japan’s third-largest island, wealth of experience in high-end hotel Kyushu, presents a distinct culture. Unlike management equipped FJ Hotels in the business-like demeanour commonly creating Hotel Forza, offering comfortable encountered in Tokyo, Kyushu locals and smart lodging. Guests at Hotel Forza exude a more relaxed vibe, and FJ Hotels enjoy stress-free stays at locations that put seeks to showcase this unfamiliar trait to a premium on accessibility and centrality visitors by rapidly expanding its own while delighting in relaxing amenities such branded establishment, Hotel Forza, as larger rooms and beds, in-room iPads Kunihiko Kiyohara, president across Japan while managing the Hyatt and coffee machines. In just 10 years, FJ brand of hotels in Fukuoka. Hotels opened four Forza hotels in Kyushu, “We offer a different kind of hospitality and aims to operate 15 hotels in popular With a continuing collaboration with in Fukuoka,” says Kunihiko Kiyohara, destinations across Japan by 2025. Richmond Hotels and the company’s president of FJ Hotels. “Our people have a “We have diversified to get the Singapore branch office, it welcomes stronger sense of community. We have a different layers of customers from abroad, partnerships with foreign brands looking rich local culture that may not be so and that grew our brand and occupancy to build hotels that promote a different famous outside of Japan, and we’d like to rate,” Kiyohara says. aspect of Japanese culture. express that through our hotels.” FJ Hotels sees potential in establishing “We bring new value and philosophy The hospitality management more comfortable and smart hotels with in Japan and within the Southeast Asian company has been nurturing a straightforward service across Southeast market through smart, lifestyle hotels,” partnership with Hyatt for 23 years, Asia, particularly in Thailand and Vietnam. Kiyohara says. CRUSHING, FILTRATION AND DRYING TECH SHARPEN MAKINO’S INDUSTRY EDGE Makino is a leader in advanced Established in 1932, Makino designs guarantee less contaminants in coarse manufacturing machine tools with a and produces advanced manufacturing crushing or fine milling processes. highly specialised advantage in crushing, machines with environmental and Meanwhile, simple feed and diaphragm filtration and drying technologies refined industrial applications such as water types of manual, automatic and semi- over 85 years. Its customisable crushers, treatment, tunnel digging, manufacture of automatic filtration machines are used in mills, filter presses and dryers play an ceramics, batteries, semiconductors, and waste water treatment and various active role in helping industries and the recycling. production processes such as brewing, environment. Wet and dry crushing systems such as mining and manufacturing. From purifying factory waste water jaw crushers, roll crushers and ball mills In drying, Makino excels in spray and helping with the construction of dryers – eco-dryers for fragile products Japan’s railways and airports to assisting and humidity-controlled rapid dryers that the government in rebuilding the nation guarantee shortened drying times with after the 2011 earthquake, the family- less cracks and deformation. “Research owned business’ first-rate machines, and development is important to us,” systems and services satisfy the Makino Makino says. “We are working on brand motto: “Our machine makes developing automation, robotics and everyone happy.” remote control technologies, and have “We want to be No 1 in Japan in any of connected with universities to help us.” our core technologies,” says Yoshinobu With markets in China, South Korea, Makino, president. “Our success lies in our Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam and long history. One of our customers has Indonesia, Makino is prepared to help been using our machines for more than 50 build Asia-Pacific’s growing economies – years – attesting to the strength, durability and work towards a global expansion as it and quality of our products.” Yoshinobu Makino, president invites distributors from the United States. Friday, February 1, 2019 S7 ¢ ¢ Sponsored section in cooperation JAPAN BUSINESS REPORT with Discovery Reports SAKAE LACE, THE TRANSFORMER WORLD’S LEAVERS EXPERT HIRAI LACE MARKET DENKEIKI THRIVES LEADER, GOES WITH CENTURY-OLD BEYOND LINGERIE There’s a big chance that the lace one together with customers on design sees in lingerie shops is made by Sakae development is they can purchase Lace. That’s because the company directly from us,” says company makes 60 per cent of the world’s Leavers president Tetsuya Sawamura. EXPERTISE IN EPOXY lace, and is crafting more designs and With output consisting of 80 per making more innovations than ever cent Leavers lace and 20 per cent before. Raschel lace, the company is the partner Sakae Lace started in 1958 with just of choice for high-end European fashion Tetsuya Sawamura, president MOULDING two Leavers lace machines. It has nearly brands such as Chantelle and Simone 90 machines today, maximised with a Perele. small lot production strategy that According to Sawamura, Sakae has sales representatives in up to 14 While Sakae Lace draws most of its enables the company to create elegant Lace grew to market dominance countries, spread across the globe. sales from underwear, it is using its lace TECHNOLOGY lace designs. Each year, nearly 2,500 because of several factors. The Beyond geographic growth, Sakae expertise to expand sales to outerwear sketches are created in order to provide company started producing lace in Lace also maintains partnerships that such as haute couture, wedding dresses lmost 100 years ago, Hirai Starting in 1921 as a supplier of such as for low and high voltage or customers with 800 new sophisticated China in 1992, long before outsourcing improve its product line. The company and kimonos. Denkeiki pioneered epoxy indicating instruments and meter frequency, for extra precision and for designs. to China became a worldwide trend. Its works with universities on using The next frontiers of growth, moulding technology for the transformers, Hirai Denkeiki has created a general use. “We see ourselves As much as 20 per cent of these new Chinese employees soon became cameras to detect damage and particularly for outerwear, are China manufacture of transformers. solid reputation for supplying high- contributing to the safety and security of designs are results from collaborations leaders as the company expanded into leveraging artificial intelligence to and India, where the company seeks to Today, the Kyoto-based performance current transformers that society by helping prevent electricity- with its clients. “The benefit of working Thailand in 2003. Today, the company explore ways to reduce labour costs. expand its sales presence. Acompany continues to thrive with its are noted for lasting 30 to 40 years as related accidents in facilities where our proprietary “super” technology that is compared to traditional transformers’ epoxy mould transformers are installed,” relied on by an expanding customer base 15 years. After its release of Japan’s first Hirai says. consisting of Japan’s leading power small-sized, high-precision wound Hirai Denkeiki continues to refine its generation companies and electric magnetic core window-type current expertise to create environment-friendly TH utilities along with prominent transformer in 1958, Hirai Denkeiki has transformers that are lightweight and NICHIRYO MARKS 75 YEAR manufacturers across industries. progressively expanded its portfolio of smaller in size, while delivering higher “The sustainability of our business is ultra-precise current transformers and performance. The company has also anchored in our century-old expertise,” has also unveiled general-type voltage begun exploring the possibility of WITH THE LAUNCH OF NEW says Takaya Hirai, president. “We also transformers, auxiliary current incorporating light-emitting diode Takayoshi Ito, attribute our success to keeping our transformers, coupling transformers, and technology, and is open to joint research president company family-owned, which allows us transformers for extra high voltage. and development projects to develop NICHIPET MICROPIPETTE to make quick decisions and focus more Additionally, the company custom- new applications and products. on ensuring customer satisfaction.” designs transformers for any purpose, Domestic sales account for about 90 per cent of the company’s revenues, with Celebrating 75 years of innovation and supplies custom-made liquid handling sales. In 1996, Nichiryo established several big-name clients as part of its dedicated work, liquid handling device products. a subsidiary in the United States established customer base. Beyond manufacturer Nichiryo strengthens its Three Nichiryo pipettes are on to better serve its expanding Japan, Hirai Denkeiki has secured commitment to meeting the utmost display at the Nobel Museum as client base in the Americas. sizeable projects, including the supply of requirements of clinical laboratories and commemorative gifts from Dr Shinya Over the medium term, precise current transformers for an the life science sector worldwide. This is Yamanaka, the winner of the 2012 Nobel Nichiryo is considering installation in Malaysia and the showcased by the continuous Prize for physiology or medicine. opening local branches in Asia development of a zero-phase sequence evolvement of the company’s flagship Yamanaka has been using the Nichipet to provide genuine customer current transformer for a project in Nichipet series of micropipettes, which EX micropipettes for a long time, support. It also aims to work Thailand. Hirai Denkeiki has also carved will see a new model unveiled within the including in his award-winning stem cell with quality-minded out a presence in China and South Korea year. research – a testament to the quality of distributors and service through sales agents. Based on a dispensing technology Nichiryo’s products. partners who can offer the same “Our goal is to increase the share of developed and refined since its “We attribute our success to our top-notch, “super-express” overseas sales from 10 per cent to 30 per establishment in 1944, Nichiryo offers a unrelenting focus on delivering superior calibration and repair services cent,” Hirai says. “We believe the broad range of pipettes and dispensers product quality and customer service,” provided by its Japanese subsidiary opening of our new factory this year, for handling different liquids, including says Takayoshi Ito, president. “This has Scimec. which will increase our capacity solvents and high-impact liquids. Its been key to becoming a trusted partner “Asia is an important market for threefold, will play a major role in market-leading Nichipet Premium to our customers.” us,” Ito says. “We see growth achieving this target. We also hope to find autoclavable model is noted for Nichiryo exports its liquid handling opportunities in China, India and more quality-minded distribution innovations in durability, precision, instruments worldwide, with Southeast Asia, and future partners to help boost our sales and stability and comfort. To meet specific international sales currently accounting possibilities in developing countries Takaya Hirai, president cultivate business opportunities abroad.” client requirements, Nichiryo also for 20 to 30 per cent of the company’s in other parts of Asia.” ANRITSU METER AFFIRMS NO BETTER WAY TO MEASURE SUCCESS THAN WITH UNQUESTIONABLE QUALITY Since its establishment in 1949, Anritsu “We are proud to share that we’re to be a proud carrier of the Japanese Meter has continuously proven that there almost done working on new probes that stamp of excellence across its wide sales is only one way to remain strong in are quite rare with the use of optical fibre network in Asia. The company aims to business, and that is through delivering technology,” Senbokuya says. grow its international sales, which unquestionable quality. While gaining recognition worldwide currently constitute 20 per cent of its Through the years, the company has for producing more than 10,000 kinds of overall sales, by enhancing its steady created its mark as a leader in temperature temperature probes, Anritsu Meter proves presence in South Korea, Thailand, Hong measurement technology, and played an Kong, Taiwan and mainland China, as well active role in the enhancement of as expanding its distribution in Vietnam measuring techniques in all types of and Indonesia. industry, especially the semiconductor “We are open to partnerships,” and automotive segments. Senbokuya says. “But our focus is to “Our competitive edge is rooted in our educate the agencies about our products.” strength that comes from our long-term Anritsu Meter looks forward to further relationships with our customers, from increasing its sales in the United States our tailor-made and durable products, and and Europe by leveraging its wide range of our quick response time,” says president products, outstanding quality and Masatsune Senbokuya. remarkable 40 years of history. It aims to A pioneer in the field of surface capture a slice of the global temperature temperature measurement, Anritsu Meter sensor market, which is expected to grow commits to producing high-quality at a compound annual growth rate of 4.5 products that answer the market needs per cent to reach US$6.26 billion by the and adapt to advanced technologies. Masatsune Senbokuya, president end of 2022. NEW TECHNOLOGY AND STRATEGY EXPAND HIGASHIMOTO KIKAI’S MEAT PROCESSING BUSINESS Asia-Pacific’s population of 4.5 billion standards for ham and sausage people is driving the demand for food and manufacturers, meat processing food processing machinery – an industry companies and frozen food brands. expected to reach US$93.5 billion globally Using its expertise, Higashimoto Kikai by 2026. Celebrating its 50th year as is developing an automated meat Japan’s leader in meat and ham processing technology that will replace processing technologies, Higashimoto manual operations. It also plans to open a Kikai is responding to this challenge with a new factory in Vietnam in five years to new offering, an upcoming factory and boost production capacity, and aims to robust plans for expansion. increase international sales to 10 per cent Founded in 1969 as a business of its overall sales volume. maintaining imported meat processing “We develop and manufacture new equipment, Higashimoto Kikai started products based on requests from clients manufacturing its own machines to and with their collaboration,” says Shinya answer Japan’s growing market for ham Okada, president. “Our portfolio has and sausages at the time. It merged expanded because we met customer Shinya Okada, president European-standard product technologies needs of different periods over time. So with its own know-how to provide we are still selling products that we customer-tailored machines. developed 40 years ago as these represent portfolio. It welcomes research Products range widely from vacuum our core technologies.” collaborations with universities, and is mixers and cutters, meat tenderisers and Present in China and South Korea interested in automation and internet-of- grinders to frozen crushers, lift boys, through its clients, and targeting to things technologies. smoke houses and super injectors. These expand into Thailand and Vietnam, “Our company needs to be on the highly durable and resilient processing Higashimoto Kikai aims to attract new same trend as our customers five years machines offer unsurpassed food safety clients and further grow its product from now,” Okada says. S8 Friday, February 1, 2019 ¢ ¢ Sponsored section in cooperation JAPAN BUSINESS REPORT with Discovery Reports UTAX PIONEERS SEAMLESS BONDING NIPPON FUSSO SOLUTIONS FOR DEVELOPS ORIGINAL SOFTER, MORE FLUOROPOLYMER BREATHABLE AND SUPPLE FABRICS COATING SOLUTIONS

Good, quality intimate apparel should fit machinery. The company’s original Isao Tsukamoto, president the body like a second skin ensuring bonding technology is not only behind WITH CUSTOMERS maximum freedom of movement. The every hook and eye, underwire, tape or bra best undergarments use fabrics that are component it makes, the specialisation stretchable, soft to the touch and do not also extends into fabric applications for on-stick, corrosion-resistant electric discharge that can cause We are focused curl or fray easily, but the secret is in the sport, compression and active wear, and and possessing high-purity ignition. PEACOCK SEEKS TO bond. Many garment manufacturers even vehicles. features, fluoropolymer has Serving various industries ranging on growing our today benefit from seamless bonding “Originality is our strength, and we been making industries from semiconductors and flat-panel solutions that make the most out of any developed all our bulk production greener, more efficient and displays to pharmaceuticals and customer base, EXPAND HOME fabric. Thanks to seamless bonding machines so we safeguard the Nsafer. When coated with the super petrochemicals, the company works especially in technology innovator UTAX, markets engineering and production know-how,” plastic, mixing tanks for viscous closely with clients through its today can delight in comfortable, “no Utaka says. “Bonding technology is not materials become environmentally technology development department. China DELIVERY BUSINESS bumps” yet tough inner wear and apparel. just for intimate apparel. Many industries friendly and more efficient as Nippon Fusso boasts of its Surface “Seamless bonding has become a use fabrics that need bonding so we manufacturers do not have to clean the Treatment Technology Research Center, Satoru Toyooka, president trend in Japan and worldwide,” says collaborate with textile companies, tanks afterwards with toxic chemicals. which analyses products, develops new WITH PARTNERSHIPS UTAX president and CEO Daisuke Jackson garment manufacturers and suppliers to Meanwhile, vessels for petrol chemicals surface technologies and studies new highly tailored fluoropolymer coating Utaka. “We pioneered this technology and offer solutions to any industry.” with fluoropolymer underlining or materials. ISO-certified, the facility is solutions. These range from ultrahigh- continue to develop it. We use a special UTAX seeks to collaborate with more reinforcement become explosion-proof. equipped with one of the largest ovens precision electronic applications to large IN ASIA kind of liquid glue instead of film for the local and international partners to grow its Such a growing range of applications and clean rooms in the world. projects such as vessels 6 metres high bond, which makes the fabric softer, more sales overseas. With a master facility in has been the focus of Nippon Fusso, Such dedication to research and by 16 metres long used in the breathable and easier to shape.” Nishiwaki, Japan, followed by two which for more than 50 years has been development has resulted in many polyethylene production process. To Hectic, on-the-go lifestyles paved the bringing an authentic Japanese Preferred by top-tier intimate wear production sites in China and one in developing fluoropolymer solutions minimise losses due to shutdowns, way for the emergence of a convenience- experience to their home markets. brands in Japan for its high-quality bra Thailand, UTAX is eager to further carefully tailored to client needs. Nippon Fusso guarantees clients on- store culture of consuming ready-to-eat Gaining a wealth of expertise from accessories and bonded seamless penetrate the sportswear, medical and “Solving customer problems is our schedule resolution of maintenance frozen food. However, choosing its fast-food arm, the company garments, UTAX is backed by decades of automotive markets in China, Southeast key business philosophy,” says problems. prepacked meals could be hit-or-miss broadened its scope to produce the technical expertise that also go into its Asia, North America, India and Saudi president Satoru Toyooka. “Each case is Satoru Up ahead, the company is looking to since not all food manufacturers are ready-to-eat counterparts of best-selling own-designed automated production Arabia. unique, and we draw on our vast Toyooka, expand international sales while equal. Combining its discerning tastes fast-food products such as takoyaki and technical know-how, ultramodern president exploring fresh fluoropolymer uses in with the latest food manufacturing okonomiyaki. When it comes to frozen facilities and solid customer ties to come the battery, sensor, automatic technologies, Peacock changes the goods, food moisture is the up with the best original solutions.” technology and automotive verticals perception on frozen food with its differentiating factor and the company True to its pioneering spirit, aligned with Industry 4.0. With the expertly curated line of flour-based employs the latest solutions to preserve Nippon Fusso became the first establishment of its factory in Thailand, frozen products that deliver taste, quality it – ensuring quality and freshness the company in Japan to receive the Nippon Fusso expects to intensify its and value. customers can taste. Peacock’s products highest award from DuPont for presence in Asean before going to India “There is an internal rule that unless I are available in supermarkets and its improvements on Teflon and southwest Asia. taste and approve the product, the through home-delivery service. coating technology. Today, “We are focused on growing our company cannot sell it. There are risks in Peacock serves the local market Nippon Fusso has preserved customer base, especially in China that but I want what’s best for our through its Oguni facility, while factories its reputation as a leading where we see the biggest opportunity,” customers,” says Peacock president Isao in Vietnam and Indonesia primarily cater innovator in fluoropolymer Toyooka says. “We have committed Tsukamoto. to international markets. The company applications. The Japanese ourselves to the fast delivery of highly Established in 1971, Peacock is a implements stringent quality measures company developed the world’s reliable products in the past half century, household name in the Japanese food in these overseas factories to ensure that first antistatic fluoropolymer and promise clients the same excellent industry, particularly in the fast-food and products meet its exacting standards. coating, a variety that prevents service ahead as we strive to become a frozen-food segments. With its time- To support growth outside its home coated materials from releasing global company in the next 50 years.” tested recipes for fast-food fare capturing market, Peacock aims to partner with the tastes of the people, Peacock’s home-delivery providers in Vietnam, hotplate, ramen, udon and sweet shops Indonesia and other countries continued spreading like wildfire across throughout Asia. In doing so, Peacock Japan. The company is looking to open can share its excellent manufacturing restaurants and shops internationally practices while bringing genuine REGENCY STEEL JAPAN HELPS with the help of partners interested in Japanese products to more homes. Daisuke Jackson Utaka, president and CEO GLOBAL COMPANIES TACKLE OFFSHORE AND STRUCTURAL CHALLENGES

Delivering 21 offshore rigs in a single production techniques together with its year is no easy feat, but Keppel FELS did heat treatment furnaces and 10,000- this in 2013, aided by niche steel tonne press machines also allow it to components maker Regency Steel offer various services that conform to Japan (RSJ). The achievement was so customers’ objectives, budget and unprecedented that the global rig design schedule. and construction company received the Expanding its Asian and global Guinness World Records title “largest business, RSJ exports steel components manufacturer of offshore rigs” the to many of Keppel Group’s projects following year. Keppel FELS continues overseas. Plans to widen its know-how to successfully deliver many of the in steel materials and methodologies world’s jack-up rigs and semi- that will allow it to adapt more quickly to submersibles using RSJ’s quality rack market demands are underway. To and chords, welded structures and other continue delivering offshore durable steel products. applications such as offshore wind farm “We have adopted Keppel’s core jackets and other services, RSJ values including being quality- welcomes strategic research and obsessed, and this makes us a very Wong Chun-yu, president development collaborations with reliable supplier,” says Wong Chun-yu, universities and partners globally and RSJ president. across Asia, particularly in mainland A joint venture of Keppel Offshore & Skytree and parts of the Tokyo China, Taiwan and Vietnam. Marine subsidiary FELS Offshore, Mitsui International Airport at Haneda. “We are starting to diversify our & Co., and Nippon Steel & Sumitomo RSJ’s high-level steel is remarkably offerings, but we will continue to do Metal, RSJ applies its parent companies’ strong, lightweight, and resistant to projects that we are good at,” Wong 40-year steel manufacturing expertise to fracturing and corrosion – features that says. “We are open to partnerships support some of Japan’s major are vital in rack and chord fabrication. where we can maximise our facilities landmarks. These include the Tokyo The company’s innovative steel and apply our niche proficiencies.” HOKUSHO LIFTS CUSTOMERS’ MANUFACTURING EFFICIENCY WITH LEADING GOODS DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS

Industries today face many challenges products used in multilevel factories and such as wage increases, labour warehouses are the vertical transfer shortages and demand for more system, automated sortation systems sophisticated products. To improve such as the piece assorting system and production speed while maintaining the sorting and transfer system, and the exceptional results for customers, the clean vertical transfer systems. Hokusho implementation of the right material also carries system engineering handling system is crucial. As industries products such as palletising, production increasingly turn to automation and line, and packaging systems that save on other Industry 4.0 solutions, the region’s labour costs and streamline operations. leading material handling equipment Hokusho applies its solid technical maker Hokusho evolves with the market know-how to develop environmental changes as it upholds manufacturers by systems that improve frozen warehouse providing material distribution efficiency. As consumers demand equipment backed by the latest fresher produce and food products, Japanese technologies. companies are looking for more Starting as a machine trader and innovative and reliable food storage and distributor, the decades-old family handling solutions. Hokusho seeks to business developed its first product, a Takahiro Kitamura, president penetrate China’s burgeoning frozen slat conveyor, in the 1950s after the warehousing market in addition to company’s founder witnessed the cementing its presence in Japan, South cumbersome way Japanese farmers “As investments in automation Korea and across Southeast Asia. lifted and stockpiled 60-kilo rice sacks. grow, we act fast to incessantly develop “Our company exists to contribute Hokusho has since created a range of new solutions while regularly improving to society,” Kitamura says. “We serve patented material distribution systems and modifying existing ones,” Kitamura customers by continuously bolstering under the helm of third-generation scion says. our capabilities to meet delivery, cost and president Takahiro Kitamura. Some of the company’s standard and quality demands.” Friday, February 1, 2019 S9 ¢ ¢ Sponsored section in cooperation JAPAN BUSINESS REPORT with Discovery Reports EMBROIDERED PRODUCTS MADE MORE ACCESSIBLE WITH TAJIMA INDUSTRIES

t is not easy to carve a niche in the machineries by the apparel, technology, appearance, the Tajima SAI is equipped We add value by dizzying industry that is fashion. automotive, aerospace and medical with the same features as the company’s Creativity becomes the key to industries. other flagship products such as durable supporting the distinguishing one designer from the “As an embroidery machines mechanical and electrical parts, precisely next. However, concept and specialist, we always stay on top of trends adjusted components, easy to use for innovation of Iexecution are two different things that can to adapt our products to client inexperienced operators, among others. our clients in sometimes be conflicting. With its 75-year requirements. We add value by With international companies making expertise in manufacturing embroidery supporting the innovation of our clients in up almost 90 per cent of its customer their exploration machines, Tajima Industries has been a their exploration of new applications. base, Tajima has stitched together a loyal partner of many companies in giving Companies actually approach us to test- strong support network with more than 60 of new life to intricate designs and patterns. sew new materials such as sensors, distributors worldwide. Aside from applications Tajima put a modern spin on carbon fibre, heater wire and other manufacturing and distributing needlework – mechanising the art of technical textiles,” says president Hideki subsidiaries in Japan, it has established Hideki Tajima, president sewing to make many customised and Tajima. an assembling factory in Shanghai and Hideki Tajima, president original creations. Since its One such product of the company’s representative offices as sales and establishment, it has developed about market intuitiveness is the Tajima SAI. technical service bases in the United 3,000 embroidery machine models used The compact embroidery machine makes States and France. and automotive industries continue to Bangladesh, Pakistan and Russia, as these representatives who can help it navigate succeed with our technology. We will in many industries in more than 100 it easy for artisans and smaller businesses Tajima envisions that its market share rise. Outside its home market, the countries are mass production hubs of the African market. continue to develop new technologies to countries worldwide. It has become the to benefit from the know-how and in Japan will increase in the future, company sees great opportunities to many apparel companies. Tajima is also “Our customers invest in our maintain the trust of our customers and partner of choice for embroidery expertise of Tajima. Even with its compact especially as domestic sales in the apparel grow its market share in India, seeking partners such as sales products because they know they can gain new ones,” Tajima says. NITTO REINETSU SEEKS TO CHUKOH CHEMICAL INDUSTRIES MOULDS BRING OPTIMAL AIR SUPER PLASTIC PTFE TO SUIT CLIENT NEEDS When Dr Roy Plunkett was trying to universities and companies. The ENVIRONMENT TO ASIA’S invent a new refrigerant in 1938, he company, for instance, has the accidentally discovered the super plastic technology to process PTFE into silicone polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or resins and coat them onto airbags to FACTORIES AND CLEAN ROOMS fluoropolymer. Surrounded by tightly prevent breaking or burning. Chukoh can packed fluorine atoms, PTFE can also impregnate glass fibre yarn cloth withstand extreme heat, ultraviolet (UV) with fluoropolymer to produce Skytop, a Leading up to its 45th anniversary, air chemical plants, laboratories and light and critical chemicals while breakthrough architectural roofing cleaning and cooling solution specialist hospitals, and manufacturing facilities possessing superb non-stick and membrane. Nitto Reinetsu is moving towards a with precision work spaces, including the electrical-insulation properties. The same Stronger than steel, Skytop does not stronger internationalisation strategy and semiconductor and automotive sectors. tough features, however, have made sag over time as it can withstand opportunities to grow in Asia. Its flagship product, the eONE-A1W/ fluoropolymer difficult to process – an temperatures up to 800 degrees Celsius. “This expansion is prompted by our A05 W super-energy-saving type expertise mastered by Chukoh Chemical UV light bleaches the roofing membrane commitment to further serve our precision temperature and humidity air Industries to serve the specific needs of pure white throughout its estimated predominantly Japanese customers who conditioner, has won the grand prize for clients in architecture, medicine, food 50-year life cycle without cleaning. As have expanded their manufacturing excellence in energy efficiency and packaging, transport and electronics. such, Skytop delivers significant energy presence across Asia,” says CEO Eiichi conservation. Serving as a replacement “By instilling in every employee the savings by reflecting up to 85 per cent of Ichikawa. “We also aim to serve a wider for the air handling unit and external air concept of kaizen or day-to-day the sun’s heat while letting in as much market and help bring an optimal air conditioner, it cuts energy costs by up to improvement, we are able to develop light as possible. Chukoh has installed the environment to the region’s factories and 80 per cent. The eONE efficiently cools, core technologies that allow us to innovation at the Bangkok Airport, the clean rooms.” dehumidifies, humidifies and heats the transform fluoropolymer into unique Beijing National Stadium also known as Naoyuki Shono, president Nitto Reinetsu specialises in the entire surface through which air passes. Eiichi Ichikawa, CEO products for many modern industries,” the Bird’s Nest and several other production of energy-saving heat and Other key offerings from Nitto says Chukoh president Naoyuki Shono. stadiums worldwide. humidity control units, air purifiers and Reinetsu include various air showers and Chukoh allocates about 10 per cent of “We are always looking for a chance semiconductors, medicine and food and general manager. “Together, we can cooling devices. It has become renowned air curtains, fixed and easy-to-assemble broaden our collaboration network,” expenses to research and development to work with industry, academia and packaging in China and Southeast Asia,” provide customer-centric solutions the for its monozukuri approach to clean booths, pass boxes and fan filter Ichikawa says. In Asia, Nitto Reinetsu while collaborating with partner distributors, especially in the field of says Jinichi Komiya, operating officer Japanese way.” manufacturing – a guarantee that its units. Nitto Reinetsu can custom-design its seeks distribution partners, particularly in products are made with the highest level devices, in terms of dimension and Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, of workmanship, manufacturing functionality, to match specific client India and China. It is also looking for excellence and continuous improvement. requirements. quality-minded subassembly partners The company is trusted to keep dust-free “As we seek to expand our and aims to expand its network for and sterile clean air at many food factories, geographical footprint, it’s vital that we product development. CONSTANT INNOVATION PUSHES OHM’S GROWTH IN AND OUT OF JAPAN Better futures through creation and manufacturing companies across many R1234yf, which has an extremely low development – this vision has always sectors with its revolutionary and Global Warming Potential of less than 1. fuelled OHM Electric’s drive to give life to environmental solutions. In the field of oil mist treatment, OHM has unprecedented products and “Our company is built on the been focusing on non-filter type for waste technologies that will transform and principles of uniqueness and originality. reduction. OHM helps its clients protect improve societies. As continued We focus on making one-of-a-kind human health and maintain a clean work industrialisation sweeps the globe, OHM inimitable products. We have been doing environment. positions itself as the ideal partner of this for 60 years, and we plan to continue Working closely with clients to doing so in the future,” says OHM understand their needs, OHM is president Yoshiro Tozuka. expanding its business scope to include OHM is a renowned wiring solutions system integration. Backed by a robust expert, as it is among the pioneers of the research and development team, OHM first cable gland CAPCON. It is also one of aims to widen its scope to more industries, the go-to companies for climate control including medical, food and robotics, and equipment that helps maintain optimal more markets outside Japan. temperature and humidity conditions in OHM supports this geographical an enclosure, and environmental expansion by opening an oil mist collector equipment that eliminate oil mist and dust and cooling system factory in Thailand from production sites. that will serve as a distribution hub for the Making great strides in its Asian region. Aside from serving environmental advocacy, OHM important growth markets such as specialises in panel coolers and oil mist Southeast Asia and China, OHM seeks to collectors. The non-fluorocarbon coolers reach new markets such as North America Yoshiro Tozuka, president launched in 2016 employ the refrigerant and Europe. NSC SHARES SEWAGE AND WATER TECHNOLOGIES WITH REST OF ASIA Leveraging nearly 60 years of expertise in employees comprising seasoned water-related environmental projects, engineers, while pursuing extensive Nihon Suido Consultants (NSC) is giving collaboration with universities and central and local governments in Japan industries across the region. and elsewhere around the world a Focused on raising the share of glimpse of the future. The company, for overseas business from 10 to 30 per cent, instance, wants to collaborate with the company is working with various appropriate experts in creating new types of companies in countries such as technology such as a robot with artificial Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and intelligence to investigate sewer pipes Indonesia. Moreover, NSC has opened while developing special antennas that branches in Singapore and in the will allow sewer manholes to transmit Philippines as it pursues a leading role in water data using internet-of-things public-private partnerships across Asia. technology. Projects overseas include the Buaran “We concentrate on our hi-tech Water Treatment Plant in Indonesia, the expertise and excellent service to help Chinaimo Water Treatment Plant in Laos local governments faced with shrinking Yoshikazu Nomura, president and the South Binh Duong Sewage budgets,” says NSC president Yoshikazu Treatment Plant in Vietnam. Nomura. “We place emphasis on “Our clients’ financial situation will excellent design work at the very onset to any project from water supply systems, not be an issue as we can customise our ensure reliable operation and waste water treatment and river solutions to suit their budget while using management throughout the project’s life engineering to flood control, NSC enjoys local people and resources,” Nomura cycle. We always strive for the best total the top market share in Japan. The says. “As such, the project benefits both solution for our clients.” company maintains technological the host country and NSC. This is our Adept across the whole value chain in leadership, with eight of every 10 policy.” S10 Friday, February 1, 2019 ¢ ¢ Sponsored section in cooperation JAPAN BUSINESS REPORT with Discovery Reports KANOMAX’ HIGH-PRECISION JOHOKU CHEMICAL SUSTAINS MEASUREMENT TECHNOLOGIES GROWTH WITH HIGHLY AID INDUSTRIES AND SAVE LIVES Air pollution is a serious global issue, pioneering focus to create unique sound and vibration meters, Kanomax’ causing 7 million deaths annually. With technologies – a legacy that we are products cater to nearly every industry. DIVERSIFIED SPECIALITY two-thirds of air pollution-related entrusted to carry on,” says Minoru Kano, Applications range from heating, casualties coming from Asia – a chairman and CEO. “Our precise ventilation and air conditioning multibillion-dollar market for air measurement systems have a margin of equipment testing, public and industrial purification and monitoring systems – error of plus or minus two percentage hygiene and environmental monitoring to CHEMICALS PORTFOLIO Japanese innovator Kanomax offers more points of readings, which is within the energy development and clean room than eight decades of expertise in highest range of their class in the world.” contamination control. adaptable precision measurement From airflow instruments and “One of our strengths is pursuing a solutions for airflow, fluids and particles to sensors, air velocity meters, air quality and standardised process while offering global leader in Key to our water- and oil-resistant yet highly help ease the region’s air quality dust monitors to particle counters and highly customised solutions,” Kano says. manufacturing organic gas-permeable. problems. “We listen closely to each customer’s phosphorus compounds and growth in the Johoku Chemical’s organic Founded as Kano Laboratory in 1934 needs.” corrosion inhibitors, Johoku phosphorus compounds are used as by Goro Kano, a teaching assistant at As it celebrates its China factory’s 30th Chemical celebrates 60 years last six decades heat stabilisers and quality modifiers for Kyoto University, Kanomax today covers anniversary, Kanomax aspires to continue Aof providing high-performance plastics, fibres and rubber, as extreme- critical air environment focusing on indoor expanding its presence on the mainland – is continuous solutions to its ever-expanding base of pressure modifiers and antioxidants for air quality, health and safety; industrial with the possibility of a Singaporean office industrial customers. With its brand a expansion lubricating oils, and as intermediates for probe testing for automotive and to serve Southeast Asian markets. recognised guarantee of quality, Johoku pharmaceuticals and agricultural aerospace manufacturing processes; and The company is also developing an Chemical enjoys the trust of some of the Tomoaki Ota, president chemicals. Additional key offerings advanced measurement services for original sensor measurement technology biggest Japanese multinationals and from Johoku Chemical include research and development (R&D) using micro-electro-mechanical systems. mid-sized corporations in the plastics, multifunctional polymer molecule collaborations with universities and large It welcomes collaborations with pharmaceutical, semiconductor, sustainable benefits to loyal customers stabilisers, blister catalysts for urethane, corporations. universities and research institutions for agricultural, paints and coatings and its team of dedicated employees. city gas desulphurisation catalysts “The Kanomax DNA lies in our R&D and commercialisation support, and industries. “Business is like a marathon, not a and ultraviolet absorbers. founder’s technological knowledge and Minoru Kano, chairman and CEO partnerships with local players in Asia. “Key to our sustainable growth in 100-metre sprint,” Ota says. “We remain Broadening its business outlook the last six decades is continuous steady over time and focus on nurturing beyond Japan, Johoku Chemical looks expansion into new domains,” says long-term relationships. My vision is to forward to the opportunity to grow its Tomoaki Ota, president. “We do not sustain this business for generations.” business in Asia. “We are open to more rely on two or three key additives, and Tomoaki Ota, president Under Ota’s dynamic leadership, quality-minded raw material partners we’re not limited to a few customers. Johoku Chemical’s products have found from mainland China, Taiwan, India and JAPANESE ENTERTAINMENT Our speciality chemicals portfolio is applications in many fields and markets, South Korea who can offer stable supply diversified as well as our client base. has led the company through the global notably in the semiconductor sector and competitive prices,” Ota says. That way, we circumvent the effects financial crisis in 2007 to 2008 and the where its solutions are increasingly “We also welcome joint research INDUSTRY LEADER NIRAKU of economic downturns and periodic Great East Japan Earthquake and being integrated into smartphones and and development efforts with other industry ups and downs.” Tsunami of 2011. With a long-term view, other consumer electronics. LAN RAM, industry players who complement Ota, who has been president of he seeks to grow the company at a the company’s new type of volatile our expertise and have a long-term SHARES HAPPINESS WITH Johoku Chemical over the past 17 years, modest and consistent rate to deliver corrosion inhibitor, is noted for being perspective as we do.” ASIAN MARKETS Happiness may be an abstract concept, expansion. “Our company has grown but at Niraku GC Holdings, its creation has firmly and steadily,” says Hisanori KOMYO RIKAGAKU KOGYO been the cornerstone of a business that Taniguchi, CEO and the founder’s son. has withstood the test of time. “Our philosophy is to make the world When founder Tetsuyoshi Taniguchi happy, enjoyable and fun. We aim to DETECTS NEEDS OF GAS opened a pachinko hall in 1950 during expand globally by providing the best Japan’s prosperous post-war era, he laid experiences in amusement and the foundations of an amusement-related entertainment. We welcome international SENSOR, MEASUREMENT enterprise banking on customer collaborations to continue growing Hisanori Taniguchi, CEO experience and goodwill. Today, Niraku throughout Asia.” GC Holdings is a leading name in Japan’s Niraku GC Holdings was incorporated INSTRUMENT MARKETS entertainment industry – operating 55 in 2013. Its principal operating subsidiary, aims to expand its market share by pachinko halls across eastern Japan, an Niraku Corp, is primarily engaged in the opening new halls and undertaking The market for gas sensors, detectors safety issues, and continued use of fossil on listening to the needs of our 11-storey hotel in Koriyama city and a operation and management of pachinko mergers and acquisitions. It also plans to and other related measurement fuels and petrochemicals. customers and creating products for Spanish restaurant called Lizarran in halls and is responsible for the company’s open a 3,000-square-metre food court in instruments is poised for growth. The Aligned with this, Komyo Rikagaku them that also care for the world,” says Tokyo. hotel and restaurant franchising business. Shenzhen Upper Hills called Yokocho – the growth is propelled by stringent legal Kogyo K.K. affirms its commitment to Fujio Kitagawa, president. “Such a Fujio Kitagawa, president The company was listed on the Hong Niraku GC Holdings also maintains a Japanese term for alleyway – featuring 16 and environmental regulations, bringing excellent gas detection and vision was inspired by my father, who Kong stock exchange in 2015; and in 2017, property ownership and investment arm popular Japanese restaurant brands, by increasing awareness about monitoring products from Japan to the had just come back from the war, and it acquired Singaporean company Dream called Nexia, and is engaged in the March. environmental protection, health and world. “Our efforts are always centred my grandfather, who supported the focused on adding sensory products and Games, which operates amusement employment of handicapped persons “We will continue expanding our cause, when they built Komyo in 1947.” gas leak detection systems that are used facilities for arcade games, bowling and through its subsidiary Niraku Merrist. business portfolio and moving towards True to its mission, Komyo has by the shipbuilding sector,” Kitagawa karaoke in Vietnam and Cambodia. These Despite Japan’s declining pachinko greater diversification of revenues,” grown to serve its customers, mostly says. “The latter actually prompted our paved the way towards an Asian market, Niraku GC Holdings confidently Taniguchi says. government and municipal agencies, presence in Singapore as we’d like to be and organisations in energy, closer to our customers and provide engineering, transportation, them fast and reliable service.” shipbuilding and electricity sectors, with In addition to turning its temporary high-quality monitors and sensors that office in Singapore into a permanent have gone through intensive research one, Komyo has grown its business ULTRA-FLEXIBLE BIOPLASTIC and development. The Japanese through distributors in mainland China, manufacturer’s core products include Taiwan, India, Pakistan, Dubai, Vietnam, gas detection tubes perfect for Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. It has REVOLUTIONISES 3D PRINTING monitoring levels of the likes of carbon also established Kitagawa America, monoxide; alcohol detection equipment which caters to its growing clientele in Hotty Polymer, Japan’s leading extrusions extrusions since 1951. Continuous whose precision helps police forces in the United States. “We are expanding manufacturer, is fast gaining a foothold in innovation and rigorous quality control their operations; and fuel emission gas internationally, most specifically in Europe and Asia with breakthrough have made the company Japan’s leading detection products that benefit Southeast Asia, so we’re open to technology that enables rapid prototyping provider of rubber and plastic extrusions automotive customers. potential local partnerships,” Kitagawa using ultra-flexible bioplastic. The for the construction, housing and “In recent years, we have also says. company’s HP filament, or soft resin automotive industries. The company combining polylactide and other customises solutions to provide water- or elastomers, allows anyone to create a air-tightness, thermal or sound insulation, wide range of new products and designs and design ability, depending on the using the fused deposition modelling clients’ needs. (FDM) technology in 3D printing. The It is No 1 in Japan for high-quality resulting 3D models are soft like rubber, sealing materials such as gaskets for dramatically improved from the rigidity of sliding windows or doors, weatherstrips Hidetoshi Hotta, president existing prototypes. and glass run channels for vehicles. “Our original material for the FDM Trademarked as “Sube-up” for their type of 3D printer is the first of its kind. remarkable air-tightness, anti-mould and markets to broaden the reach of its Demand has been high in Europe where easy-sliding properties, these sealing environmentally friendly products. 3D printers are designed to make thick materials have found their way to Taiwan, “We create products with the models. We believe there will be a huge South Korea, mainland China, Thailand environment in mind. For instance, our increase and need for our HP filament in and other parts of Southeast Asia. The Sube-up products are frictionless and Asia as well, especially in China,” says company opened a branch in Thailand in provide effective sealing for extreme Hidetoshi Hotta, president. 2011. weather conditions. This level of durability Hotty Polymer has been creating Hotty Polymer invites partnerships lessens the environmental impact of endless possibilities with polymer with well-entrenched distributors in these industries,” Hotta says. SAWAI PHARMACEUTICAL IMPROVES ACCESS TO HEALTH CARE THROUGH TOP-QUALITY YET AFFORDABLE GENERIC PHARMACEUTICALS As concerns grow over sharply rising comprises about 740 high-value generic develop new effective products. In the last medical costs, the market for generic products with cardiovascular drugs, three years, Sawai Pharmaceutical spent pharmaceuticals is expected to continue gastrointestinal drugs and central nervous about 9 to 10 billion yen (HK$634 to 705 expanding. Rising to the challenge of system drugs as its top-selling offerings. million) for research work. increased demand for generics is Osaka- Stirred by its core value of always “Research and development (R&D) is based Sawai Pharmaceutical, which taps putting patients first, Sawai life itself for Sawai Pharmaceutical. It’s that into its 70 years of expertise and an Pharmaceutical continues to expand its important,” Sawai says. industry-leading production system of portfolio thanks to its strong technological As part of the company’s vision to seven factories equipped with state-of- capabilities to research a diverse array of become a globally recognised generic the-art equipment and facilities active ingredients and combine these to drug company, Sawai Pharmaceutical “Our mission has always been to completed the acquisition of the generic deliver top-quality, reasonably priced pharmaceuticals business of Upsher- medications to as many patients as quickly Smith Laboratories in mid-2017. With the as possible,” says Mitsuo Sawai, purchase, Sawai Pharmaceutical president. “We continuously work on established a strong foothold in the United challenging the four different types of States, which constitutes the world’s patents covering brand-name drugs, largest pharmaceutical market. namely, active chemical substance, “Our priority now is to bring the process, formulation and method-of-use Upsher-Smith integration to success,” patents, for the timely creation of their Sawai says. “But we remain open to generic equivalents.” partnerships and merger opportunities to Founded in 1929, Sawai further enhance our R&D and sales Pharmaceutical today ranks as the leading capabilities. We’re also taking a closer look Japanese generic pharmaceuticals at Asia, seeing the vast growth possibility manufacturer. Its extensive portfolio Mitsuo Sawai, president in the region.” Friday, February 1, 2019 S11 ¢ ¢ Sponsored section in cooperation JAPAN BUSINESS REPORT with Discovery Reports OHNO SEIKO IS THE KAWAMURA IDEAL PARTNER FOR SANGYO’S ORIGINAL PRECISION PARTS TECHNOLOGIES PROCESSING FOR THE AUTOMOTIVE PROPEL MARKET INDUSTRY

EXPANSION Ohno Seiko performs precision equipment necessary for manufacturing processing of prototypes, moulds, jigs precision parts, Ohno Seiko pursues and production equipment parts from its high quality standards as its customers’ ith rapid infrastructural main manufacturing facility in Nishio second machine factory. Takahisa Ohno, president and founder development in China and City, Aichi Prefecture. Since its founding, In addition, Ohno Seiko has Asia-Pacific amplifying the company has engaged mainly in the established a Vietnam factory located in demand for advanced work as a first-tier supplier to the Ho Chi Minh. Operated by about 80 local that are capable of doing surface president and founder. “With the industrial technologies and automotive industry. people, the Ho Chi Minh factory has treatment and special processing. knowledge and technology we have Welectrical insulation materials – a market In the automotive industry, which successfully adopted the concept of Currently, Ohno Seiko works with gained in Japan, we believe that it is our projected to reach US$8.95 billion this year uses various production machines, monozukuri manufacturing, which is the Chinese, South Korean and Thai responsibility to promptly deliver low- – Kawamura Sangyo is well-positioned to Ohno Seiko’s mission is to ensure the same standard implemented at the corporations as cooperating partners. cost products and services all over the benefit from the region’s economic continuous operation of the customers’ company’s Japan facility. “For anyone considering to enter world. In the modern era when the speed growth. equipment. The company responds to Ohno Seiko also offers procurement Japan’s parts processing field, we of development is ever-increasing, we A leading manufacturer and parts repair quickly and with flexibility. agency services through more than 150 welcome them to visit our homepage will exert all efforts to support customers distributor of insulators, micro-machining Since it has almost all the processing excellent cooperative manufacturers and contact us,” says Takahisa Ohno, in any way, day to day.” products and electronic materials in Japan for more than 50 years, Kawamura Sangyo supplies key Asian markets such as mainland China, Taiwan and South Korea. It aims to quadruple its exports over the next five years. TANAKA FOODS SPICES UP PRODUCT “Our strength is precision processing, so there are many possible future applications for our technologies,” says LINE WITH NEW SEASONING FLAVOURS Toshifumi Kondo, president. “We want to explore different fields and ways we can Combining the vibrant fragrance of sesame with spinach, cabbage and other Japanese herbs. use our expertise in Japan and throughout the salty burst of laver and the savoury richness For the furikake expert, providing nourishing Asia.” of bonito flakes and several other ingredients, products to society is a continuing commitment. Kawamura Sangyo manufactures furikake sprinkled on steaming Japanese rice It is this dedication that fuels its research and high-performance, cost-efficient and delivers a stimulating sensory experience in development department to constantly create world-class insulator processing and Toshifumi Kondo, president every bite. But more than its delicately balanced new offerings and food supplements such as a electronic processing products. These flavours, furikake provides unbeatable nutrition breakfast rice milk drink designed for those who range from slit products including plastic and adds a one-of-a-kind taste to many types of lack the time for breakfasts. films and metal foils, coating products water cleaning and sputtering. Combined, crystalline displays and smartphones. It is food including salads, steaks and even potato Tanaka Foods’ overseas sales constitute such as heat-resistant backup tape and these technologies continue to generate a also exploring new areas of application chips. about 5 per cent of total revenues. With its strong adhesiveless laminate materials to router growing roster of products. including the medical industry, and Tanaka Foods was among the pioneers that product line helping add a touch of Japanese processed products and insulators for Kawamura Sangyo’s unique welcomes R&D collaborations with developed the ryoko no tomo, the early flavours to many dishes, the company is hopeful motors and transformers. adhesiveless insulating laminate material regional partners. incarnation of modern-day furikake, during the that more consumers outside Japan will Placing importance on research and called Namli, which is manufactured by “We listen to the needs of the market Taisho era. patronise the brand. development (R&D), the company has direct bonding of aramid paper and plastic and see how these match up with our “My grandfather started our business to Aiming to raise exports to 50 per cent of developed a number of processing film, was developed in collaboration with technologies,” Kondo says. “We develop make something that contributes to society,” overall sales, the company has established a technologies in slitting, film and sheet Mie University. The company also new products to address evolving market says company president Shigeki Tanaka. factory in Vietnam to serve the Southeast Asian forming, plasma surface treatment, heat provides insulators for electric vehicle and demands – allowing us to create distinct Furikake was originally developed as a rice market and beyond. It is open to joint-venture lamination, coating, board forming, pure hybrid motors, and materials for liquid solutions.” topping and is now widely used as a cooking partnerships with companies and distributors condiment. Further exploring this path, the that can help adapt Tanaka Foods’ products to company is developing other seasoning different market preferences. materials to provide convenient cooking “To keep up with the changing needs of solutions to busy homemakers. society, we welcome partners willing to It even aims to launch a colourful blend of exchange wisdom and technology,” Tanaka OITA UNIVERSITY EXCHANGE furikake for rolling that includes salmon flakes, Shigeki Tanaka, president says. PROGRAMMES COMBINE MEDICAL SCIENCES WITH SOCIAL SERVICES Globalisation has spawned dynamic agreements with 83 universities intercultural exchange, and the 69-year- changes in the way business and society worldwide, Oita University offers many old Oita University builds on this tradition move. To keep up, people need to have a study exchange programmes abroad to as it reinforces its system with continuing wide perspective and an international support modern education and research teaching and management reforms. With outlook. This is according to Oita in the humanities, social sciences and three campuses in Japan, a Bangkok office University’s president Dr Seigo Kitano. natural sciences fields. and memoranda of understanding Integrated with Oita Medical University in “Merging together as one university brewing with institutions in Vietnam, 2003, Japan’s first national university to provides a lot of merit,” Kitano says. Thailand and Indonesia, Oita University is combine social services and medical “Multidisciplinary research and work can advancing its research in many areas, sciences counts imparting value to society now be done easily and efficiently.” bolstering its three core domains: welfare, as its utmost priority. Through its Oita was once the centre of Japan’s human environment and life sciences. “Partnering with other universities and research institutions, our collaborations turn into specialisations, and as teachers and students work together, industries develop,” Kitano says. Among the university’s many hands- on courses and specialised research projects, two programme areas are gaining wide acclaim: endoscopic research to treat gastric cancers in Asia and rabies research to fully eliminate infectious diseases from canines in the Philippines. The programmes involve student exchanges, but the main work is controlled by public-private cooperation, and research and development. “Our mission is to eradicate gastric cancer and infectious diseases in Asian countries,” Kitano says. “Many doctorate students from developing countries train with us and use high-quality and sophisticated equipment, then they go back and apply these learnings in their communities. We welcome more Dr Seigo Kitano, president international students.” SAGA AIRPORT: ASIA’S GATEWAY TO KYUSHU Strategically located in southwestern Such growth has prompted the Saga Japan, Saga prefecture is Asia’s gateway Prefectural Government to expand Saga to the rich culture, nature and food Airport. The facility is increasing airport specialities of Kyushu and Japan as a aprons to six while upgrading the terminal whole. Only about 90 minutes from building. The government will also extend Shanghai or Seoul, Kyushu-Saga the runway by 500 metres to 2,500 metres International Airport (Saga Airport) is a to accommodate larger aircraft, and hopes convenient entry point to many Japanese to collaborate with foreign airlines in Asian attractions ranging from the world- markets such as Hong Kong and Thailand famous Wagyu beef and onsens, or hot to increase international routes. springs, to Olympic camps and state-of- Projects are also moving forward to the-art cancer treatment facilities. interconnect the airport with the “Saga Airport has a great potential as surrounding regions, including the a gateway to Kyushu, and the number of construction of a highway connected to its users is on the rise,” says Yoshinori the facility. However, Saga faces the Yamaguchi, governor of Saga prefecture challenge of having a limited number of and overall head of Saga Airport. “Kyushu hotels and room capacity, making it is the closest entrance to Japan from the Yoshinori Yamaguchi, governor, difficult to keep up with the influx of rest of Asia, and people can easily visit and Saga prefecture, and overall head, tourists. enjoy Japan on a day or overnight trip. Saga Airport “Saga Airport has numerous repeat With our ability to accommodate private users, including private jet operators. With jets on a day’s notice for urgent business, it Asia on the rise, we eagerly welcome is an easy-to-use airport for customers of Airport welcomed a record high of 776,614 investors interested in creating real value all types.” visitors, consecutively topping its own with us,” Yamaguchi says. “Saga has a lot In the fiscal year 2017 alone, Saga usage records for the past five years. of potential.” S12 Friday, February 1, 2019 ¢ ¢ Sponsored section in cooperation JAPAN BUSINESS REPORT with Discovery Reports SEIWA KASEI HELPS COSMETICS BRANDS NEW FACTORY AND RIDE MARKET TREND WITH PRODUCT TO SPUR BREAKTHROUGH INGREDIENTS

When Dr Masato Yoshioka says research countries including China, South Korea, with glycerine and lend cosmetic PRECISION and development (R&D) is the India and Brazil. products exceptional colour stability and cornerstone of Seiwa Kasei, the Such inquisitiveness has served moisture. The company is further president of the biotech company global cosmetics brands well. For adding an alkyl group into the novel means every word. With more than half instance, vitamin C is unstable and chemical concoction to bring out PRODUCTS EXPERT of its 70 employees dedicated to R&D, degrades easily, but Seiwa Kasei found properties never seen before in vitamin Seiwa Kasei is behind more than 100 in Amitose VC a way to bond the vitamin C derivatives. Another proprietary original breakthrough cosmetics product is the Silasoma, which wraps ingredients. ultraviolet absorbers inside special “Our strength dwells in our We are notably microcapsules to prevent skin irritation TECNISCO’S technology which allows us to create from cosmetics products such as one-of-a-kind products with excellent capable of foundations and sunscreens. properties and effects,” Yoshioka says. Looking to attract more clients “We are notably capable of Dr Masato Yoshioka, president manufacturing overseas, Seiwa Kasei is taking part in GROWTH OVERSEAS manufacturing products that our products that international exhibits while welcoming competitors do not or cannot distributors in markets such as China manufacture.” Seiwa Kasei has 82 approved patents, our competitors and the United States. “We expect hen it comes to high- With special effort in protecting its and has applied for 297 more. The partners to fully comprehend the quality precision intellectual property, the company is company has a similar R&D dominance do not or cannot subtleties of our products so they can components, Japanese able to give clients the confidence and globally with 41 approved patents and manufacture promote them properly,” Yoshioka says. pioneer TECNISCO is at peace of mind that they are using only pending applications for 72 more in “The Asian economy is growing fast and the forefront of providing original chemical inputs. In Japan, North America and Europe, and in other Dr Masato Yoshioka, president we want to be in.” Wcutting-edge products for the world’s optoelectronics, electronics and life science industries. With 70 per cent of its business coming from sales of medical glass and heat sink laser products across the HORIBA STEC United States, Europe and China, the company looks forward to growing its business further overseas. BEHIND MANY KEY Armed with a new product, a new factory in Singapore and freshly tapped Asian markets such as South Korea and ADVANCES IN Taiwan, TECNISCO aims to achieve an annual revenue target of 1 billion yen (HK$72.35 million) over the next few SEMICONDUCTOR years. Established in 1970 as a cutting Keizo Sekiya, chairman of the board and CEO service for its then-parent company MANUFACTURING DISCO, TECNISCO has since honed its “cross-edge” microprocessing address client needs with original such as microfluidic glass and cavity technology that combines five solutions. glass; and silicon products with The ability to understand and act on measurement and control expertise. processing technologies as a one-stop “Our goal is to make things that excellent thermal conductivity and technology trends is like riding waves in Through proprietary engineering solution for precision components. This seem impossible possible,” says Keizo outstanding heat and corrosion the ocean. It is easier to move through ventures, HORIBA STEC produces expertise allows TECNISCO to maintain Sekiya, chairman of the board and CEO. resistance to improve process trends and respond appropriately if you evaluative solutions for manufacturers of product quality stability and cost “Product quality is our strong point. We productivity and yield. Other can see them coming. In the world of leading-edge semiconductor devices, efficiency, shorten lead times and have the advantage of offering five applications cover automotive and semiconductor manufacturing, one wafer fabrication and assembly main technologies – cutting, grinding, semiconductor manufacturing. measurement and control device equipment makers, and other dynamic Hideyuki Koishi, president polishing, metallising and bonding – in TECNISCO has also created a developer stands out. Not only can it industries in Japan and worldwide. one factory, whereas other companies durable, long-lasting and reliable quickly anticipate the various turns and “Our line-up of analytical Our goal is to specialise in only one or two material called Metal Diamond troughs in the information and instruments maintains high efficiency in quality control and assurance systems “We seek collaborations externally techniques.” Composites. With excellent thermal communications technology (ICT) field, every stage of the manufacturing are anchored in the dedication of skilled and within the HORIBA Group network,” make things From microchannel coolers with conductivity and relatively low thermal but HORIBA STEC also creates its own process,” says Hideyuki Koishi, engineers based in various locations Koishi says. “By promoting open that seem improved corrosion resistance to expansion unknown in past materials, waves by innovating solutions making it president. “With decades of experience including Singapore, Taiwan, South innovation, we look for crossovers to insulation-type three-layer submounts, the company’s latest offering is the world’s leader in mass flow in the semiconductor business, we have Korea, Europe and the United States. develop semiconductor and impossible TECNISCO offers heat sinks for optical beneficial for high-power applications – controllers. Many advancements in the a better understanding of what the Apart from closely supporting clients, biotechnology, food and pharmaceutical communication, industrial laser and a new chapter in product development evolution of ICT – from personal customer wants, the technical field staff members also collaborate with businesses. Teamwork is key to possible power semiconductor devices. combining TECNISCO’s inventive computers, digital cameras and collaboration, support and timescale government agencies and universities, maintaining production and supply Keizo Sekiya, chairman of the board It also provides various glass technologies and decades-honed smartphones to today’s data centres – they look for.” particularly in China, to work on research systems that swiftly and reliably respond and CEO products for the life science industries expertise. swell from HORIBA STEC’s fluid HORIBA STEC’s all-encompassing innovations. to changes in market environments.” TAKIGAWA KOGYO INTENSIFIES FOCUS ON FOOD MANUFACTURING EQUIPMENT Manufacturing machineries and adapting While the steel industry makes up the them for a multitude of industries majority of Takigawa Kogyo’s business, it showcase a company’s capabilities. Aside is working on intensifying its focus on from understanding the products of each food manufacturing, especially given the industry, the manufacturer has to comply rising demand for solutions in Asia. with varying quality and regulatory Among the company’s gems in this area requirements. Takigawa Kogyo is a prime are its steamers, which are crucial in the example of one such company with preparation of Chinese buns and its portfolio of industrial machines dumplings. This solution is particularly that promote high levels of operational important for Takigawa Kogyo as it aims efficiency. to strengthen its presence in China. From designing, manufacturing to As its machineries are durable and installing, Takigawa Kogyo works hand in long-lasting, Takigawa Kogyo constantly hand with clients to identify solutions that seeks ways to increase its customer base. fit their needs. Starting with its steamers, which are used “We always take the initiative to by big-volume manufacturers, Takigawa explore new environments, facing Shohei Takigawa, executive Kogyo is adapting the technology so challenges head-on and coming up with vice-president small to medium-sized companies can new ideas. We are confident we can also benefit from the Takigawa Kogyo provide tailor-made services and expertise. products,” says executive vice-president eventually broadened its scope to include “We are seeking partnership Shohei Takigawa. depositors, heating, cooling and packing opportunities with sales agents that can Takigawa Kogyo became a renowned machinery for food manufacturing. The strengthen our foothold in markets name in Japan with products that support company further expanded its horizons including South Korea, Taiwan, steel manufacturing such as counting with automated production-line solutions Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, equipment for bars and wires, tagging such as conveyor, transfer and transport Singapore and the Philippines,” equipment and rolling-related facilities. It machines. Takigawa says. TAIYO CUSTOMISES INDUSTRIAL SYSTEMS TO GIVE CLIENTS DISTINCT COMPETITIVE EDGE Between Japanese firm Taiyo and its Nabtesco, car producers including Toyota American mother company, Parker and Honda Motor, and semiconductor Hannifin, lies nearly two centuries of fabricators such as Tokyo Electron and combined expertise in hydraulics, Murata Manufacturing. pneumatics and motion control. Such Based on customers’ requests, the deep know-how has allowed Taiyo to company offers equipment design provide clients with some of the finest concept, prototype production and production automation technologies – evaluation, and mass production. All from bespoke hydraulic and pneumatic these processes are focused on ensuring equipment to automated assembly and clients low cost and fast delivery of transport solutions comprising carts and efficient production equipment, while lifters. offering steady improvement and reliable “We have accumulated high technical maintenance, repair and overhaul service. capability by responding to customer Taiyo has a pending patent for its requests for many years,” says Takashi revolutionary air saver unit. By using a Ishikawa, Taiyo’s president and general pulsating technique instead of a Takashi Ishikawa, president and manager. “We maintain technical continuous air-blowing one, the general manager leadership by keeping up with the innovation is far more effective in many evolving demands of industries and factory applications such as dusting, providing clients with a one-of-a-kind drying and cooling. The unit also enables “We will enter the railway equipment quality experience.” clients to save about 50 per cent on business in Asia,” Ishikawa says. “In A comprehensive manufacturer of compressed air usage, thereby cutting China, we welcome collaboration with hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders with CO2 emissions by half. suppliers and distributors of innovative technology, engineering Up ahead, the company expects sales semiconductor manufacturing services and proposal capabilities, Taiyo to increase by 42 per cent from US$240 equipment as we offer high-speed has earned the trust of railway car million last year to US$340 million in pneumatic valves to semiconductor manufacturers such as Hitachi Rail and 2022. fabricators.”