Friday, July 4, 2014 SPECIAL REPORT JAPAN COUNTRY REPORT INSIDE: 15-PAGE SPONSORED SECTION IN CO-OPERATION WITH DISCOVERY REPORTS ‘Abenomics’ is paying dividends

fter a less-than- permit casinos to open, part of a successful stint as Three-pronged economic strategy helps to broader plan to attract more Hongkongers can work to fund their stay in Japan. Photo: Bloomberg prime minister for foreign visitors. The number of exactly one year in reinvigorate the economy, writes Julian Ryall annual overseas tourists has September 2006, already surpassed the 10 million AShinzo Abe has surprised level, but Tokyo has set the many people in his second stab ambitious target of 20 million Working holiday at the job. He has been resolute, visitors in 2020, the year in decisive and some of the policies which Tokyo will host the he has introduced have been summer Olympic and scheme a success sweeping and long overdue. Paralympic Games. Nowhere has that been more Speaking at a conference in ...... evident than in efforts to Tokyo in late April organised by 52 per cent of the successful Keith Chan reinvigorate the national The Economist, Abe described applicants in the first period economy. When Abe was voted his campaign as “a golden have the qualification of into office in December 2012, the opportunity to put the economy The working holiday scheme university or higher, including yen was far too strong, exports on to a stable, new growth between Hong Kong and Japan those who are attending but not were suffering, investment was track”. “The economic policy my has turned out to be a great yet graduate. stagnant, consumption was flat cabinet is pursuing must this success, with the applications The consulate says the total and a decade spent trying to get year enrich each and every received for the first period of number of applications received the nation out of inflation had individual and deliver the fruits this year already exceeding the during the first period this year come to nothing. of growth to every corner of the annual quota of 250. was more than the annual In a little over 18 months, the nation,” he said. Launched in January 2010, quota, and that it is hoping for transformation has been The prime minister said he the scheme is designed to an even larger number of young dramatic. No sooner than he intended to achieve this by promote exchanges between the Hongkongers to seek working had taken office than Abe laid making the most of Japan’s young people of Japan and Hong holiday visas in the second out a three-pronged strategy – geographical advantage at the Kong so they can gain a deeper period. Applications will be known as “Abenomics” – built heart of the booming Pacific Rim understanding of each other’s accepted between October 6 on the connected pillars of fiscal region, by taking advantage of culture and society. Japan is one and 17. stimulus, monetary easing and strong demand in developing of the most-favoured tourist Ken Lai, who was granted a structural reforms to deal with Asian nations for Japan’s destinations for Hongkongers, working holiday visa in 2012 and the deeper problems that machine tools and capital goods, and is also the city’s third-largest subsequently worked in Japan bedevil an economy that has and by opening the domestic trading partner. for several months, says that for been in recession or, at best, economy to embrace “outside To qualify, the applicant those planning to work, a good anemically positive, since the vitality, along with human must be a Hong Kong or British understanding of Japanese start of the 1990s. resources, capital and wisdom National (Overseas) passport Seven months after his from abroad”. holder ordinarily resident in election victory, Abe set off for Key to this will be a series Hong Kong, who is aged his first G8 summit in Northern of trade agreements, the most between 18 and 30 and intends Ireland buoyed by a gross important of which will be primarily to holiday in Japan for domestic product that climbed the Trans-Pacific Partnership, a specified period of not more The number of at an annualised rate of 4.1 per for which negotiations with than one year. They will be applications cent in the January-March 2013 the United States are continuing. allowed to take up employment quarter, while the stock market Also on the agenda is an during their holiday to received for the had fattened by 50 per cent since economic partnership supplement expenses. first period of the previous November. agreement with the In addition, the applicant The value of financial assets European Union. must not be accompanied by this year has held by Japanese households “Everything that Abe said dependent family members, and leapt more than 3 per cent in the shows that he wants Japan to be must possess a return travel already exceeded final quarter of fiscal 2012, and a player and to be at the centre ticket – or the means to purchase the annual the yen recovered from a low of of the highest growth area of the a ticket – and sufficient funds for 76 yen (HK$5.8) to the dollar in Asia-Pacific region,” says Jesper living in Japan. The applicant quota of 250 February 2012 to above 100 yen Koll, managing director and must also hold medical in April last year. head of Japanese equity research insurance throughout the stay. language is important. Sharing Not everything that the prime for JP Morgan in Tokyo. The annual quota is allocated his experience on his blog, Lai minister touched turned to gold, “Japan does not want to be twice a year in May and says even if visa holders can find however, with some detractors on the periphery, and that’s a November, with 125 visas issued jobs that do not require suggesting that his policies were good thing.” for each period. For the first communication with customers, thin on details of how precisely To underline the positives period this year, the Consulate they still need to understand he planned to turn around the Tokyo hopes to attract 20 that have been achieved, many General of Japan received a total instructions from their economy in the long term. million tourists for the 2020 critics of the prime minister’s of 279 applications between employers. Japan logged a customs- Summer Olympics. Shinzo Abe proposals identified the increase April 4 and 17. After careful Apart from learning Japanese cleared trade deficit of 2.79 (left) has plans to revive the in the consumption tax from 5 examinations, the 125 successful in Hong Kong before the trip, trillion yen in January, the largest economy. Photos: Bloomberg per cent to 8 per cent on April 1 applications were announced there are language schools in monthly deficit since as the date on which his policies on May 20. Japan which offer short-term comparable data was first would begin to flounder. Among the 125 successful courses for working holiday compiled in 1979. The deficit amount of child care that is Consumption would drop off applicants in the first period, visa holders. was worsened by the high cost of available to families, while he precipitously, they said, as females accounted for 70 per Lai adds that for holders of a fuel imports to meet the thirst has been bullish on plans to consumers saved instead cent of the total. Those in the age work holiday visa, finding a job is for energy while the nation’s reduce the corporate taxation of spending. groups of 23 to 26 and 27 to 30 not particularly difficult, because nuclear reactors remain off-line. rate to 30 per cent. And, while the public did each comprised 43 per cent, many companies prefer to hire Equally, the weakening of the Other measures include the go on a spending spree in the while those 18 to 22 years temporary staff to lower their yen against other key currencies creation of special development weeks running up to the represented 14 per cent. cost and commitment as also contributed to an increase zones to encourage local increase, only serving to The successful applicants are compared to hiring full-time in the value of imports. businesses, opening up the heighten the nay-sayers’ getting younger. Compared with staff – especially for jobs that Those figures were agriculture sector, extensive warnings, the early indications those in the same period last require only basic skills. The highlighted by the critics and conceded that his first two sense that the third arrow of government support for clean are that the market has already year, there was an increase of 6 part-time job market in Japan used to underline data that “arrows” – quantitative easing fundamental reform had not energy and robotic technology, put the hike behind it. per cent for those aged 18 to 22, also has relatively higher showed that the national shifted the currency rate and the been unleashed. and abolishing tax breaks for Abe has not magically fixed and a 2 per cent increase in turnover, because people economy had grown only a weak stock exchange bounced back, Perhaps stung by those housewives in an effort to get all the nation’s woes at once, but those 23 to 26, while there was a who opt to work part-time 1per cent on an annual basis in while supplementary budgets criticisms, Abe has pushed them into the workforce. he will be quietly satisfied that decrease of 9 per cent for those usually have other the final three months of last were put into motion and the tax through plans to deregulate the Parliament has also opened he has taken a solid first few aged 27 to 30. commitments such as study and year. Even Abe’s critics rate is rising – but there was a energy sector and improve the discussions on revising laws to steps in the right direction. In terms of education level, family responsibilities. Optimism spreads across property market ...... house the Andaz Tokyo, the indicators show a positive institutional investors. The “Occupiers are moving up Julian Ryall Hyatt Group’s first boutique impact, with economic growth capital’s office sector is also but, given the broader economic hotel in Japan, which aims to forecasts converging at the 1.5 to faring well in comparison with environment, they are also The state of Japan’s property attract business visitors as well 1.8 per cent mark. rival cities in the Asia-Pacific looking to do that with limited market – particularly that of as leisure travellers. “The stimulus measures region, with Hong Kong and impact on the cost side.” He Tokyo – has long been Toranomon Hills also fits in appear to have reinvigorated the Singapore showing signs of adds that this has made a considered a reliable barometer with the national government’s Japanese economy and have rental decline and investors number of new buildings in less- of the national economy. And, plans to enhance the broader stoked investor sentiment,” says additionally attracted to Japan central locations more attractive. with the real estate sector awash infrastructure of Tokyo, a Will Johnson, head of research by its large stock of investment- In its latest report in the state with optimism at the moment, campaign that has taken on and consultancy for Savills grade real estate, a mature legal of the Tokyo office market, CBRE that positivity appears to be added significance after the city Japan. “Japan’s total property structure, transparent and emphasises that the vacancy catching on elsewhere. was selected to host the 2020 transaction volume was up more established business practices, rate for grade-A office properties The latest addition to Tokyo’s Olympic Games, and underlines than 70 per cent in 2013, and a lack of restrictions on has sunk below the all- ever-changing skyline formally the broader resurgence of the compared to 2012.” foreign ownership. important 5 per cent level for the opened on June 11, with Mori property sector. That optimism spreads Another factor has been the first time in more than two years. Building unveiling the Analysts in Tokyo are across the four key sectors of impact of the 2011earthquake. “This is a significant turnaround, Toranomon Hills building near confident that all sectors of the office, retail, residential and “After the quake, it was not and what we are finding now is Shimbashi station. Designed to market have consigned the industrial-use properties. feasible for tenants to suddenly that tenants are competing for appeal to multinational worrying last few years to the “A trend towards relocate to new properties, as it the most desirable spaces – companies seeking a prime past and are looking ahead. The centralisation and smaller takes a great deal of planning,” those that are well-located and location in the city, the 52-storey market is entering a positive new household sizes is supporting says Andy Hurfurt, head of have high specifications – and tower uses cutting-edge, cycle, banks are looking to lend occupier demand for mid- investment consulting for that is a chance for landlords to pillarless office spaces and again, sellers are making market rental apartments, which CBRE in Tokyo. “What we have raise rents,” Hurfurt says. incorporates one of Tokyo’s optimistic noises, and investors offer landlords a steady, low- seen more recently is an For tenants, the most most expansive conference are making their moves. volatility income stream,” increase in emphasis among important considerations facilities, top-of-the-range That newfound desire is a Johnson says. As a result, high- occupiers for quake-resilient remain transport links, residences, 25 restaurants and a result of the efforts of Prime quality residential assets in buildings and – for banks and efficiency in floor plate size, and 6,000-square-metre pocket of Minister Shinzo Abe’s Tokyo and other major Japanese financial trading companies in the age and design of the open space and greenery. government to inject new life cities are seeing strong interest particular – for power resilience building, including its resistance Toranomon Hills is Tokyo’s newest skyscraper. Photo: Bloomberg The sleek structure will also into the national economy. The from domestic and overseas in their buildings. to seismic activity. S2 Friday, July 4, 2014 SPECIAL REPORT: JAPAN COUNTRY REPORT Sponsored Section in co-operation with Discovery Reports JAST thrives with innovative Opportunities set IT solutions, Asian expansion Independent software developer Japan System and smartphone applications. JAST has to mushroom across Techniques (JAST) has adopted a two-pronged begun offering JMICS as a cloud-based approach towards achieving sustained growth medical information system. amid changing market conditions in the To further enrich its services menu, JAST information technology (IT) industry. has customised its Gakuen solutions for the “In addition to developing next-generation Chinese education market and initiated versions of our mainstay offerings, we are now collaborative work with a number of universities, Asia for Hokuto building our own proprietary brand of software,” including Huizhou University. It aims to solidify says CEO Takeaki Hirabayashi. “We have also its footprint in the country through its ...... stepped up efforts to take our products and consolidated subsidiary GuiLin Anxin Software. Bunapi is popular for its chewy Reports by Stacey Johnson, services to Asia.” “We recognise that China is our key market texture and creamy taste, which Christina Liedke and Jessica Ryan Marking its 40th year in business last year, for growth,” Hirabayashi says. “With more than is milder than the original brown JAST has become a leading provider of strategic 3,000 universities, China represents a big market buna-shimeji’s flavour. Together management systems to universities, with its for Gakuen and our other integration packages.” ealthier digestive, with maitake, which has a richer Gakuen series ranking No 1 in Japan. JAST JAST also hopes to build up its Southeast cardiovascular and taste and aroma, these mushrooms also continues to strengthen its core Asian operations, leveraging the strengths immune systems are are considered healthier alternatives competencies in contracted software of its subsidiaries in Thailand and Singapore among the effects of to meat. development for corporations and public and strategic alliances with Chinese and eating mushrooms as part Having stabilised mushroom agencies, and multivendor system sales for Korean IT firms. It is keen on working with oHf a wholesome diet. As a quality supplies for production and building IT and telecom infrastructure. more like-minded organisations having mushroom manufacturer in Japan, distribution throughout the country, As part of its expansion strategy, JAST has relevant technologies, middleware and Hokuto has cultivated its brand to Hokuto’s research and development ventured into in-house software development. operational knowledge. represent the nutrition and tastiness also aided its expansion into It has found early success in its proprietary “These expansion efforts are in line that mushrooms add to Asian and regional markets. JMICS automated electronic health insurance with our main thrust – to create a better Western cuisines. The company aims The company opened two claims checking system, BankNeo IT services society by providing pertinent IT solutions to familiarise overseas consumers factories in Taiwan with a combined Takeaki Hirabayashi, CEO integration package for financial institutions, and services,” Hirabayashi says. with the benefits of mushrooms by Masayoshi Mizuno, president annual capacity of 3,000 tonnes of expanding in Southeast Asia. mushrooms for export to Hong Kong. “Educating more Asian countries It also looks forward to widening about how our mushrooms can be The institute gives Hokuto insight its reach to the mainland. used in daily cuisine is a priority for into the properties of mushrooms, To mark its 50th anniversary this us,” says Masayoshi Mizuno, which make them an ideal health year, Hokuto will be opening a factory president. “Backed by our brand food due to their zero cholesterol in Malaysia that will begin operations name, our mushrooms are regarded content, low calorie content and high in November. as high quality.” amounts of antioxidants, fibre and As it continues to develop Based in Nagano prefecture, vitamins B and D. mushrooms to suit consumer which is famous for its wild Hokuto genetically engineers preferences, the company plans mushrooms, Hokuto began as a mushrooms to improve and combine to obtain halal certification by packaging materials company characteristics such as taste, texture next year. that made bottles for mushroom and longer shelf life. These qualities in “The Asian market will have more cultivation. Hokuto then established the company’s products earned high opportunities for us over the next the Mushroom General Research evaluation scores from the Japan 50 years,” Mizuno says. “Providing Institute in 1983, which enabled it Agriculture Association. The company high-quality mushrooms is important to independently produce mushrooms incorporates these qualities in to us and I hope that Asia comes to such as eryngii, maitake and developing its own species such as recognise our mushrooms as buna-shimeji. white buna-shimeji, known as bunapi. products made by Japan.” Nitta-born technologies revolutionise industries Obsessed with inventing, improving pneumatic tubing, and air filters for and cutting to releasing. Intelimer and pursuing corporate social manufacturing plants and buildings, also drastically reduces pollution as responsibility, Nitta has grown to to mechatronic products for robots its minimal adhesive residue become one of the leading and wafer polishers for next- eliminates the need to clean the manufacturers of premium soft- generation computers. wafers with solvent. materials-based products worldwide. The company’s biggest Such environmental concern With a history spanning 129 years, the achievement, however, is yet to defines Nitta. The company has company started as a producer of come. This month, Nitta welcomes its developed “green” products such as power transmission leather belts. next president – Motonobu Nitta. The its selective catalytic reduction Nitta has since developed to supply a fresh leadership will steer the system, which filters emissions from broad product range incorporating company through an aggressive passenger vehicles to buses and frontier technologies. Its expertise growth path envisioned in its mid- and trucks. The company has also been extends from transmission and long-term management plan. In maintaining a 6,700-hectare forest conveyor belts, hydraulic hose and particular, Nitta forecasts global sales reserve in Hokkaido since 1906. to surge 40 per cent until 2020. The Other innovations are bound to target expansion is more staggering revolutionise industries. Nitta has in Asia at 120 per cent on the back of developed superior carbon heightened regional networking and nanotubes after discovering a way introduction of innovative products. to neatly align nanofibres along “We’re strengthening the membranes. company by promoting new product To be initially introduced in Japan ideas to meet changes in the global as tubings for sectors such as environmental and market aerospace, medical and transport, conditions,” Nitta says. the product will feature more stable Its Intelimer tape, for example, chemical, thermal and electrostatic has simplified various production properties. In the field of logistics, processes. Initially launched in Nitta has designed a radio-frequency Taiwan, the invention is a functional identification tag that is only tape that reversibly sticks and 0.1mm thick and can be used on releases items in response to metal surfaces. temperature changes. “We have developed the Asia When used in semiconductor Networking concept, where we manufacturing, Intelimer see Asia as one strategic area to saves on production costs as manage and invest,” Nitta says. manufacturers have to use “We want to be the No 1 global Motonobu Nitta, only one set of tape to hold partner in composite technologies president the wafers from laminating of soft materials.” EXEDY gives back to society When EXEDY is not setting global the efficiency of its torque ice hockey team, which competed in standards for niche vehicle converters up to about 90 per cent. the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi. components, it is leading the world in “Technology and the passion of Meanwhile, 25 of the 28 members of corporate social responsibility (CSR). our people have driven our the Iga Football Club Kunoichi, a Just next to its Neyagawa phenomenal growth,” Shimizu says. women’s team playing in Division 1 of headquarters in Osaka, the world’s “We encourage our engineers to Japan’s Nadeshiko League, are leading designer and manufacturer come up with something new and company employees. Additionally, of manual clutch and torque better every day.” working on the eighth floor of converters has established a Recognising the significant EXEDY’s Osaka headquarters is different kind of subsidiary. EXEDY contribution of its more than 17,000 Japan’s only female Formula driver. Sun looks like an ordinary company employees worldwide, EXEDY Ai Miura has competed in 12 Formula from the outside. But inside the continues to inspire them. The Challenge Japan races and has 400-square-metre facility, physically company’s overwhelming support for made history as the first female challenged workers wash and its female staff, for instance, has driver to win a Japan Formula 3 race. clean containers and arrange produced some of the best female “Everything we do comes back vehicle parts. About 27 of its 32 athletes in the world. to the employees,” Shimizu says. employees are autistic or have Three of its employees working “At the end of the day, we would a disability. at its Hokkaido facility are members like them to sincerely say, ‘I love “This is our way of giving back to of the Japanese women’s national EXEDY!’” society,” says Haruo Shimizu, president and CEO of EXEDY. “This philosophy is a core aspect of our corporate identity.” The company’s CSR activities include the Kiddyland kindergarten school and extensive relief operations in Thailand during the floods. In particular, its CSR programme has become a model for the government and other private companies in Thailand. The company operates in 23 countries through 41 subsidiaries, six of which are in China. Focused on safety, quality, just-in-time delivery and cost, the EXEDY Group caters to giant original equipment manufacturers such as Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Volvo, Ford, GM, Daimler, Hyundai and many others. A first mover in the market, EXEDY enjoys global technological leadership. By using lighter materials such as paper bonded with metal, for example, the company has raised Haruo Shimizu, president and CEO Friday, July 4, 2014 S3 Sponsored Section in co-operation with Discovery Reports SPECIAL REPORT Nikkiso caters to Asia with integrated solutions

inding the right solutions for aluminium alloy with carbon-fibre- Such integrated solutions come industries as diverse as oil reinforced plastic (CFRP) in aircraft with after-sales service and and gas, medical and components, it helped pave the way maintenance that make the aviation across different for today’s lightweight and fuel- equipment last for up to 30 years and markets around the world is efficient aircraft. Nikkiso’s thrust optimise operating costs throughout aFll about keeping the customer reverser cascades are on most the lifecycle. process in focus. This ability to satisfy commercial aircraft, with the Meanwhile, Nikkiso co-develops varying customer requirements, while company holding a 90-per-cent share new-generation canned motor pumps adapting to local market needs, has globally as an indispensable supplier with Germany’s KSB Group for the catapulted Nikkiso into the top five for Boeing, Airbus and Bombardier. downstream oil industry. global players in its highly specialised Sales of CFRP thrust reverser In the medical business, a fields. components and other main partnership with the Weigao Group “The market that we’re aiming for wing and engine components are also establishes a strong footprint in China is very small and niche,” says increasing. and export possibilities. Weigao’s Toshihiko Kai, president and CEO of “Since the launch of the Boeing capability in hemodialysis Nikkiso. “The only way that we’re able 787, many industry players have asked consumables such as blood dialysers to maintain the top position is by us to develop CFRP material for the and its strong local sales network always catering to our clients’ needs more complex equipment,” Kai says. complement Nikkiso’s sophisticated and developing new and original “We have been very busy developing technology for the fast-growing renal technologies.” new products.” business in China. Nikkiso’s expertise started in fluid Recognising Asia’s growing “The priority lies more in keeping control technologies. It pioneered prominence in the global market, the superiority of our original Japan’s canned motor pumps and Nikkiso heads into the future with a technologies through constant developed the country’s first special focus on durable yet advances and retaining the hemodialysis monitoring machines in economical solutions for the oil and advantage that we have,” Kai says. the 1960s. It has acquired a global gas industry. “And I think by pursuing that, we’ll presence since then, accounting for “The business in Asia is very actually see the results.” about 30 per cent of the worldwide important to us,” Kai says. “We need sales of canned motor pumps, which to make sure that we find the right are instrumental to the chemical and market and see what works within process industries. With each pump that market.” customised according to specific Integrated solutions hold much customer requirements, Nikkiso has promise, prompting Nikkiso to produced more than a billion varieties intensify collaborative pursuits with of its core product, including German affiliate Lewa, which cryogenic pumps that are used complements the group in the extensively in the LNG business. upstream segment with its expertise Meanwhile, the company’s in reciprocal pumps, packages and hemodialysis monitoring machines systems. continue to enjoy brisk sales in Japan, “It’s very important that we where Nikkiso holds a listen to the market and cater 50-per-cent market share. New to the specific needs that versions of the machines are fully come up,” Kai says. “By automated, allowing hospitals to integrating the pumps into a maintain safe renal procedures at system and providing lower labour costs. everything from planning Nikkiso is likewise established in to plumbing, we have a the aviation industry. Becoming the big chance to succeed as Toshihiko Kai, world’s first manufacturer to replace a group.” president and CEO Tokai Tokyo strengthens platform through innovative alliances

The overall sentiment for Japan’s Securities (Asia). It has also stock market remains positive established an information gathering especially after a strong rebound last subsidiary in the US and a fund year. Receiving a much-needed push management subsidiary in Singapore. from the government’s aggressive “As we seek to further advance monetary, fiscal and growth policy, our international expansion strategy, Japanese stocks have regained the we intend to form more strategic interest of domestic and international partnerships with leading overseas investors. Having more than 80 years’ financial institutions, particularly in experience and an intimate Asia, not only to assist our domestic knowledge of the securities industry, customers with their foreign Tokai Tokyo Financial Group is the investments, but also to entice partner of choice for those seeking to international investors to come to diversify their financial assets and Japan,” Ishida says. invest in the re-energised stock Embracing its innovative alliance market of the world’s third-largest strategy further, Tokai Tokyo has economy. Tateaki Ishida, president expanded its partner network to Asia, “The securities market is and CEO Europe and the US, thereby favourable now, offering more upside globalising the company’s portfolio. potential and near-term opportunities Tokai Tokyo’s key business partners in to investors,” says Tateaki Ishida, slowdown between fiscal years 2009 Asia have come to include Guotai Tokai Tokyo president and CEO. and 2011. Junan Securities in China, Daewoo “Japanese stocks are relatively low- In 2009, Tokai Tokyo adopted a Securities in South Korea, Saigon priced with the Nikkei trading at holding company structure to free Securities in Vietnam, Religare approximately 1.3 times its book value itself from the constraints of a Enterprises in India, Phillip Securities – about 50 per cent lower than United conventional securities company in Singapore and First Metro States stocks. With our extensive framework. “With a holding company Investment in the Philippines. These market and investment insights, we structure, we can easily pursue business tie-ups have been arranged can lead and effectively guide growth via domestic and international to mutually enhance the capabilities prospective investors in making the partnerships and strategic alliances,” of the parties to deliver financial right purchases.” Ishida says. instruments and services to the Founded in 1929, Tokai Tokyo has Through its subsidiaries and benefit of their respective clients. In evolved to become a financial service affiliates, Tokai Tokyo offers a December last year, Tokai Tokyo group with securities brokerage firm comprehensive range of products and announced that it had formed a Tokai Tokyo Securities as its operating solutions to meet the financing and strategic partnership with the Bank of nucleus. The company has vigorously asset management needs of two high- East Asia, Hong Kong’s largest pursued joint venture securities priority customer segments: medium- independent local bank, and closed a operations with regional banks in sized businesses and high-net-worth business alliance deal with American order to build a strong customer individuals. The company has comprehensive financial service network. subsidiaries involved in trading and group Stifel Financial. This has become Tokai Tokyo’s brokerage, underwriting and sale of “Going forward, we will continue distinct business model on top of its securities, and other activities to diversify and build up our commanding presence in the Chubu associated with financial instruments. operations through business co- region. These alliances have also Tokai Tokyo directly engages in operation for us to fulfil the growing proven vital in difficult economic and the securities business abroad needs of our valued clients,” Ishida competitive environments, making the through two subsidiaries: London- says. “These key alliances are company resilient to circumvent the based Tokai Tokyo Securities Europe essential for our rise to become one of effects of the global economic and Hong Kong-based Tokai Tokyo Asia’s 10 leading securities firms.”

International expansion paves way for diversity

Technology has made landscape.” JASTEC quality that earned JASTEC a the world smaller, develops solutions such company-wide level 5 Capability breaking borders to as business automation Maturity Model Integration – an connect people from one systems, process appraisal programme conducted by corner of the globe to the rationalisation systems the Software Engineering Institute of other. Leveraging its vast and packaged software. Carnegie Mellon University to evaluate expertise in this area, Specialising in custom the software development processes. JASTEC, one of Japan’s application development, JASTEC was the first company in oldest information JASTEC has been the Japan to have achieved level 5 status technology services partner of choice for back in 2003. companies, looks Noboru Nakatani, Japanese enterprises in JASTEC is open to acquiring outside its home market president and CEO the fields of construction, companies, possibly from Hong Kong, to gain a cosmopolitan manufacturing, finance, Singapore and India, that can help it perspective that will enable it to insurance and securities. JASTEC establish a launch pad in the region for revolutionise the local software partners with only one major customer working with Asian clients. industry. in each of these business fields to “Aside from expanding our “To make an impact in Japan, we ensure that it can provide the best business, an acquisition can also help have to collaborate with people service and to safeguard confidential us develop new technologies,” outside,” says Noboru Nakatani, information. Nakatani says. “We would like to have president and CEO. “If we expand, our Committed to pursuing operational more interactions with intelligent people will gain different experiences excellence, JASTEC continuously people and there are a lot in Asia. We and skills to come up with better ideas improves processes to deliver the best can learn a lot from them just as they for a more progressive business solutions. It is this strict adherence to would learn a lot from us.” S4 Friday, July 4, 2014 SPECIAL REPORT: JAPAN COUNTRY REPORT Sponsored Section in co-operation with Discovery Reports NDC reshapes fire protection systems Life sciences, car as reliable guardian of communities Fire protection equipment and does not require welding, making it dioxide into the atmosphere. NDC systems act as guards who are first more efficient to manufacture and looks to share its innovations through industry evolve with on the scene during community recycle. Being 20 per cent lighter collaborations with its counterparts emergencies. Committed to than a typical steel fire extinguisher, across Southeast Asia that aim to protecting the public and the an ecological aluminium fire become more environment-friendly. environment, Nippon Dry-Chemical extinguisher is easier for women and Innovation is also paving the way (NDC) is a comprehensive provider of seniors to carry, and reduces fuel for NDC to cement its role as a fire detection devices, fire consumption during transport. guardian of communities. The JSR technology suppression equipment and Furthermore, it is commonly company is developing means to fire engines. acknowledged in Japan that integrate wireless telecom- SR Corporation breaks new bring in the polymer technology, while technologies,” Koshiba says. “Ten “We feel the huge responsibility recycling agents should comprise at munications into fire protection ground in the life sciences they pitch in the raw materials. That’s per cent of our R&D budget is always of providing more efficient, more least 40 per cent of an eco-friendly systems within smart cities. This and car industries with where we see a common interest.” dedicated to something new, and 900 reliable systems and equipment,” fire extinguisher’s contents. NDC integration would result in real-time materials innovation that This has already happened in of our 5,800 employees are in R&D.” says Eiichi Tohyama, president and manufactures eco-friendly fire reports of fire outbreaks, enabling has proven indispensable to Europe, where JSR established a joint This allocation is on top of R&D funds CEO. “We are here as a guardian.” extinguishers containing 60 per cent authorities to respond faster and mJodern life. venture with MOL Hungarian Oil and supporting petrochemicals, fine Innovation, coupled with an recycling agents. more efficiently. The company’s technology is Gas for an S-SBR plant in Hungary. chemicals and strategic businesses. entrepreneurial spirit, enables NDC The company has likewise “Quickly detecting and putting revolutionising the detection of Slated for launch in 2017, the plant will JSR’s net sales this fiscal year hit to fulfil its duties as a protector of the developed the world’s first method out fires, saving lives and reducing infectious diseases such as hepatitis serve major tyre manufacturers in US$3.8 billion, approaching record environment. NDC is the world’s first for inspecting and maintaining damage is our philosophy,” in China. A joint venture in Beijing Western Europe and fast-rising levels reached before the global firm to manufacture a full range of industrial carbon dioxide fire Tohyama says. makes diagnostic reagents readily European markets. financial crisis. More than 50 per cent portable fire extinguishers made of suppression systems without “We are reshaping the concept Eiichi Tohyama, available to hospitals and clinics Sales of eco-friendly tyres are of the company’s sales are coming aluminium. Producing the cylinder unnecessarily releasing carbon of the fire protection industry.” president and CEO throughout China to satisfy booming in Europe because they are from overseas, with non-Japanese increasing demand. cost-effective in lowering the exhaust employees comprising more than Magnetic beads, another emissions of passenger cars. 20 per cent of JSR staff. diagnostic reagent derived from European environmental regulation Core business areas, such as JSR’s pioneering polymer technology, requires manufacturers to limit petrochemical products, analyse the DNA structure for health carbon dioxide emissions from semiconductor materials and flat risks or to identify the most effective passenger cars to 130 grams per panel display materials, will propel drugs for existing diseases. An kilometre. Through superior gripping the company’s progress. In the highly exciting prospect in the life sciences power and rolling resistance, the competitive semiconductor business, is breakthrough research and tyres help cut fuel consumption by JSR faces a robust future with development (R&D) on biosensors about 15 per cent and exhaust 22-nanometre chips used in various that can help cancer patients emission to 120 grams per kilometre. applications, including high- prolong their lives. Supercapacitors, traditionally performance smartphones and “We followed the market used in uninterruptible power supply tablets. Also, its high-performance evolution,” says Nobu Koshiba, devices, can be modified for the car LCD materials support a larger screen JSR president. “There are many industry to boost the performance of size with high-resolution display, similarities in the development and heavy buses, trucks and construction one of the reasons behind the manufacturing processes for machines, and eventually passenger increasing appeal of high- semiconductors and cars. To tap into this opportunity, JSR performance smartphones to pharmaceuticals. For semiconductor is expanding its capacity for lithium- the tablet-toting crowd. manufacturing, we adhere to strict ion capacitors through subsidiary “We are a long-term player, procedure and protocols to tightly JM Energy by building a new plant so we go for sustainable growth control impurity levels because they in Yamanashi, Japan. and resilience to any changes,” can affect the performance of final “We cover a large spectrum of Koshiba says. products. The same discipline can be applied in life sciences.” JSR’s technology is also transforming the vehicle tyre market. The company is building a huge plant in Thailand for its solution polymerised styrene-butadiene rubber (S-SBR), the raw material for fuel-efficient and high-performance tyres. The plant is close to major tyre manufacturers that are establishing a huge presence there. Thailand will likewise be JSR’s base for S-SBR distribution to China and Southeast Asia. Establishing joint venture partnerships is crucial in this business. “From the standpoint of the butadiene producer, they can capture the value of the raw material and its end-product,” Koshiba says. “We Nobu Koshiba, president M ori Trust empowers sustainable urban developments, investments

Urban developers in Japan face the fortified construction sheltered about cities and investing in economically challenge of revitalising not just the 11,000 people when it was struck by a revitalising businesses that address country’s ageing infrastructure but its 9.0-magnitude earthquake in 2011. our society’s needs economy, which took a massive hit With sustainability in mind, Mori and boost Japan’s global from the global financial slowdown Trust is investing in environment- competitiveness,” Mori says. and the 2011earthquake. The task may related businesses to enhance be challenging, but is embraced by efficiency. It is also looking at Mori Trust, which has helped shape megaplexes with high value-added Tokyo for more than six decades. services to address the growing “Beyond buildings and other concentration of the ageing infrastructure, urban developers population in cities. should create responsible, Pursuing new investments and sustainable cities,” says Akira Mori, markets, Mori Trust eyes London and president and chief executive director. New York as ideal property locations. “The ‘Trust’ in our company’s name is Closer to home, it is slated to develop a reinforcement of our focus on a site with a total floor area of 500,000 reliability and trustworthiness. Our square metres in central Tokyo, philosophy is to add social value in where the Tokyo Metropolitan whatever we develop.” Government empowers The family-owned, private and development intensively. independent company has a diverse It also anticipates portfolio of offices, hotels, resorts and involvement in Tokyo’s residential and retail spaces, upcoming developments in including Tokyo Shiodome Building time for the 2020 Summer and Marunouchi Trust City. It has Olympics. also fostered relationships with “Balancing growth, renowned hotel and resort brands profitability and stability, such as Conrad, Shangri-La, Mori Trust is committed to Marriott and Westin. forming disaster-resilient, Among Mori Trust’s most valued eco-friendly sustainable achievements, however, is its contribution to Japan’s disaster Akira Mori, president preparedness through projects such and chief executive as the Sendai Trust City, whose director Daiwa SB Investments discovers more opportunities in Asia

Investment opportunities abound in Asian markets and in Hong Kong Japan and the rest of Asia, but it and Shanghai for East Asia, takes a firm that is committed to including the mainland, South quality and value creation for Korea and Taiwan. investors to discover them. Daiwa “Our clients are looking to invest SB Investments is a leading in Asian markets,” Tada says. “To Japanese investment powerhouse meet their demands, it is important whose guidance for domestic and for us to go to Asia and establish our Asian clients makes it a major asset management platform. I’m contributor to the country’s convinced that within five years, economy. The firm helps domestic we may have big business institutional and individual investors opportunities in Asia.” to find prospects across the region, Reaching out across the region while assisting Asian financiers in has brought the company into exploring the advantages of contact with Asian companies that investing in Japan’s stable, Masami Tada, are interested in Japanese equity. transparent and liquid economy. president and CEO Daiwa SB Investments is ready to Daiwa SB Investments is provide insight for these investors well-known in the industry for its to help them find the best value investment style, which emphasises terms of investment skill,” says in the domestic market. the value style approach. This Masami Tada, president and CEO. “Tokyo, in terms of capitalisation, emphasis, together with the firm’s The firm’s dedication to quality is still one of the biggest equity philosophy, has earned the trust of fuels its expansion into Asia on its markets in the world,” Tada says. clients with mutual funds and clients’ behalf. To assist Japanese “This year, we may find foreign pensions since 1973. “Our corporate investors, it has established an investors who will participate philosophy is to be top in quality in office in Singapore for Southeast in this market.” Friday, July 4, 2014 S5 Sponsored Section in co-operation with Discovery Reports SPECIAL REPORT: JAPAN COUNTRY REPORT OYO delivers comprehensive surveying and instrumentation solutions

nown as “doctor to the by inventing measuring devices to for its information technology resource management. It has earth”, OYO integrates support our exploration activities.” applications, and enhance its capability developed its original geological geological, geotechnical and With safety, security and economic as a solutions provider to establish a information system known as MAGIS geophysical applications to viability as its topmost priorities, OYO is sustainable society. and targets the harmonised monitoring provide superior value involved in almost all major To strengthen its business base and system of engineering and information Masato Watanabe, president Kcreation. Backed by years of expertise, infrastructure projects in Japan. It expand its regional foothold, the system towards Asian markets. it has the right fundamentals to pursue determined the optimum depth of the company invests in energy-related OYO seeks like-minded partners its goal of building a sustainable Tokyo Tower base and undertook exploration from its manufactured for collaboration opportunities in society. geotechnical investigation and analysis instruments, particularly sensors, and Southeast Asia, with focus on disaster Kanefusa A pioneering company in geological for the construction of Kansai in its investigation and consulting preparedness projects such as urban engineering, OYO was founded in 1954 International Airport. services related to seismic or structural resilience enhancement and carves sharp during Japan’s rapid and robust Growing its top line for four ground characteristics. One innovative earthquake hazard analysis in post-war reconstruction. Starting from consecutive years, its net sales offering is the i-sensor, a remote seismic-risky regions. profits through the debris of the war, it developed last year climbed 15.55 per cent to wireless landslide monitoring system “Learning from our past experience technical services that were 47.03 billion yen (HK$3.6 billion), installed at the slope at risk. The system and accumulated expertise, we can innovative previously untapped. from 40.70 billion yen in 2012. automatically sends predetermined offer a lot to Asia,” Narita says. “We do “We were the first to adopt a To sustain positive gains, it symptoms to road administrators by not treat the assessed individual areas quantitative assessment of formulated a long-term business cellular phone to minimise the damage or problems separately – we combine cutting-edge geotechnical investigation, which strategy known as “OYO 2020”. The caused by risky slopes. construction-related issues, disaster distinguished us from our peers,” plan is to integrate the company’s geo- The company delivers cost- damage mitigation, advanced tools says Masaru Narita, president engineering and consultation services efficient, leading-edge earth instrumentation and the environmental and CEO. and measuring instruments monitoring, analysis and visualisation treatment area to bring an integrated Spawning advancements in “We set industry standards manufacturing to create niche markets solutions for effective environmental solutions package.” Masaru Narita, president and CEO manufacturing, Japanese technology has become almost synonymous with “state of the art”. Applying this technological proficiency to cutting tools, Kanefusa has achieved extremely sharp blades, and even Speciality film sharper customer profits. Kanefusa mainly serves the manufacturer sets housing, woodworking, metalworking, plastics and paper industries with products such as long standards for knives, cutters and circular sawblades. Founded by master blacksmith and samurai Kankichi consumer electronics Kamiya in 1896, Kanefusa is the market leader in Japan and No 2 Bringing technology to the people is globally, with a turnover of almost the mission of speciality film US$170 million. Listed on the Tokyo manufacturer Kimoto. As the latest and Nagoya stock exchanges, smartphones, tablets and other Kanefusa is establishing its presence gadgets continue to make their debut, in Asia to become the region’s top Kimoto evolves alongside trends as a cutting tools manufacturer. technology specialist that sets quality “Companies around the world and performance standards for use our cutting tools because of their consumer electronics. accuracy and quality,” says Masato “Developing technology for Watanabe, president. the people is our sole objective,” With ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 says Casey Kimoto, president. certifications, Kanefusa has been “Our business culture is based producing original, high-precision on our eagerness to develop cutting tools for more than a century. new technology, and our thirst It developed the Ferro Max (FM) cold for knowledge has made us what Casey Kimoto, president sawblade when there was no we are today.” efficient technology available yet for Kimoto’s agility in developing cutting steel billets. A product of products allows it to make samples map-making. Starting out by intensive research, FM cold of materials on demand within three manufacturing paper for engineers’ sawblade has since become the days, instead of several months. drawings, the company’s portfolio industry standard. “The electronics industry moves very today includes film for printed circuit Creating great value for quickly, so we move as soon as boards and for organic light-emitting customers, Kanefusa also developed possible in planning and diode (OLED) lighting. With various narrower and more efficient blades decision-making,” Kimoto says. applications ranging from electronic for Scandinavian sawmills. The The company’s next-generation devices to windows used in sawblades save on wood, translating working environment enables construction, OLED lighting can to millions in profits. Kimoto’s agility. Encouraging potentially reduce the world’s energy A pioneering innovator, Kanefusa openness and flexibility, this consumption by 50 per cent. offers a software-hardware package environment fuels Kimoto’s drive With OLED’s potential yet to be that can raise production and speed to constantly discover new products realised in the market, Kimoto by up to 10 per cent. “No matter how to meet the market’s changing needs. welcomes partnerships with Asian good the knives are, you don’t get the KB-Film, for instance, is a hard-coated distributors with firm connections best results without technical film, which is Kimoto’s flagship to construction and interior design knowledge or software,” says product. Its scratch-resistant surface companies. These partnerships are Tetsuro Hirako, managing director. has made KB-Film an integral integral to Kimoto’s strategy for “Software is priceless because it smartphone component and a the region. The company will be assures precision.” leading brand in touch panel continuing its research and Kanefusa has a global network production. Smartphone development efforts to meet regional that covers four continents. In China, manufacturers and subcontractors consumers’ particular requirements it has its office and a factory in often specify KB-Film or other Kimoto such as heat reduction, which is a key Kunshan and sales offices in Tianjin products for use in their devices. concern in Southeast Asia. and Guangdong. Intent on preserving “We are very proud of our product As its activities across the region its edge on the mainland, it provides specifications for exceeding market continue, Kimoto remains committed more value with better aftercare requirements,” Kimoto says. “We try to its corporate social responsibility services. to set the standards for market programme in Japan. The company “The number of manufacturers in specifications as much as possible.” established near its manufacturing China can be overwhelming, but our Kimoto has been dedicated to facilities in Mie prefecture the rice- quality, knowledge, responsiveness continually improving its products producing Kimoto Farm Project, and service will keep us at the since its inception in 1952 as an which it plans to replicate regionally cutting edge,” Watanabe says. image-processing company for to support Asian farming technology. Sankyo envisions boosting efficiency at Asia’s ports

Seafood travels from waters across These strengths, combined with “We have since trained 32 the globe to a household’s dining an exceptional track record delegations; now we are also table as fresh as when it was caught, transporting food products, vehicles, sending trainees to Dalian to learn thanks to a streamlined, complex and machinery, equipment, lumber, about China’s ever-growing logistics constantly evolving distribution housing materials and general cargo, operations,” says Kozo Fujiki, system. One key is efficiency; have made Sankyo among the most president and executive director. “It another is continuous logistics trusted distribution partners in the has become an invaluable, mutually innovation, according to Yokohama- United States, Europe, China and beneficial partnership.” headquartered global intermodal Southeast Asia. Sankyo aims to replicate such a distribution service Leveraging a global network as relationship with more equity provider Sankyo part of Fujiki Corporation, whose partners on the mainland and the rest Corporation. legacy is rooted in stevedore and of Southeast Asia. It has formed joint longshore services since 1923, ventures Sankyo Global Logistics family-owned Sankyo also offers (Singapore) and BTL Sankyo Global import/export and customs Company in Thailand, bringing its clearance, harbour transport and customer base and international domestic distribution services. experience. It eyes Malaysia as its The mainland is one of Sankyo’s next destination. fastest-growing markets, where it “We are thrilled to meet new has joint ventures with Port of Dalian partners around Asia and the world, Container Development Company, hopefully to help improve the skills Hong Kong-listed Singamas and efficiency at ports,” Fujiki says. International Container “Our best drivers, for instance, and heavy-lift cargo can move 60 containers per hour. specialist NYK Bulk & That is the level of expertise we Projects Carriers. want to bring.” Among Sankyo’s other remarkable relationships in the We are thrilled to region is with the meet new partners Port of Dalian Authority, whose around Asia and the executives have been training world, hopefully to with Sankyo help improve the since 1983. skills and efficiency at ports

Kozo Fujiki President and executive director, Sankyo Corporation S6 Friday, July 4, 2014 Sponsored Section in co-operation SPECIAL REPORT with Discovery Reports Shima Seiki weaves technology, design into breakthrough quality knitwear

hen Masahiro Shima free knitting process that can be started his glove- applied into any garment or textile knitting machine design. With a single push of factory in 1962, all he a button, a knitter can create knitwear intended to do was just by setting the thread onto a tWo automate the production of safe, pre-programmed knitting machine. reliable and perfectly designed knitted “WHOLEGARMENT is a plus for gloves. Turning the glove bottom-up people who buy it, wear it and and connecting the three finger manufacture it,” Shima says. “For pockets in the middle, he realised the consumers, it’s more comfortable process can also be applied to to wear and it fits very well. For produce knitted sweaters. manufacturers, it can be produced Harnessing his engineering spirit, in very short cycles. Custom-made Shima went on to establish Shima knitwear becomes possible.” Seiki, a company that today serves The WHOLEGARMENT method the world’s computerised flat knitting also saves resources and energy, machine markets in more than and reduces labour costs. “What we 90 countries. The same spirit Dr Masahiro Shima, president offer is extremely short lead times in embodies Shima Seiki’s employees as production as there’s no sewing designers work towards creativity, involved,” Shima says. “To produce ingenuity and exceeding boundaries worldwide. The company’s Digital a dress, for instance, what used to on a daily basis. Stitch Control System supports take months only requires an hour. From pioneering the development modern knit producers as they It’s also better for the environment of automated machines for knitting respond to market demand for because it uses fewer materials.” gloves, Shima Seiki has become a higher-quality knit. As the growth of the Asian textile major supplier for the advancement Shima Seiki was also the first industry opens doors for expansion of knitted apparel, accessories to apply computer graphics to the in the textile machinery market, a and various textiles for the fashion, programming of flat knitting machines high degree of automation coupled furnishing, automotive and and texture mapping technology to with flexibility has become a precept aerospace industries. the apparel industry. Equipped with in the region. “We made the impossible specialised printing technology, Shima Seiki seeks to provide the possible,” says Dr Masahiro Shima, Shima Seiki printers generate superb best computerised knitting systems president. “We took a complicated definition, and can reproduce a to manufacturers on the mainland, industry, studied it and streamlined it fabric’s fine shades and hues in Hong Kong and Southeast Asia. into a modern viable business.” down to the texture of the knit. It ensures its customers’ investments Shima Seiki offers complete textile Shima Seiki develops everything – are worthwhile by offering “ideal production solutions including a full from software programs to machines. knitwear” solutions that support range of knitting, cutting and inkjet This approach ensures product the development of new markets printing machines. The company’s consistency and enables the and niche items. knitwear technology is unrivalled company to provide quality, detailed “Our customers’ success means and continues to advance, producing service to customers. Its latest our own success so we place their groundbreaking textile advantage is another first in the world interests first,” Shima says. manufacturing systems. – WHOLEGARMENT technology. “Efficiency, diversity, comfort and fit – Among its pioneering solutions is Creating a complete garment in a these are the things that produce the takedown comb used to perform single production step, Shima Seiki’s consumer satisfaction. We work individual-shaped knitting on a short WHOLEGARMENT technology is an hard to achieve these principles needlebed. This innovation became efficient alternative to conventional and strive to be a company that the benchmark for knit manufacturing knitting. It uses a breakthrough seam- customers can always trust.” ISEKI’s revolutionary machineries modernise agricultural environments ISEKI, whose name has become continuous improvements, blending synonymous with quality and the best of modern design innovation in agricultural machinery technology with in-house manufacturing, has remained engineering excellence to produce steadfast with the high ideals that the top-quality agricultural machines company was founded on. ISEKI is that meet market demands.” unwavering in its pursuit of efficient ISEKI is also committed to and labour-saving advances in providing the best customer agriculture since its formation in 1926, experience in the industry. It has being fully aware that its role is created a comprehensive support becoming more significant amid the infrastructure that ensures clients global issues of rapid population have access to farming implements, growth and rising food demand. The spare parts, service and training company has continued to develop programmes. Through overseas and bring to market premium-level Noriyuki Kimura, president subsidiaries, associated companies farm machines and technologies to and distributors, ISEKI’s global improve yields and reduce on-farm network covers Asia, North America, and post-harvest loss. and vegetable transplanters, and Europe and Oceania. “ISEKI has played a key role in combine harvesters. With award- Recognising China’s enormous the mechanisation of Japan’s winning products acclaimed for their potential, the company established agricultural industry, leading to innovative and eco-friendly design, a direct presence in the country increased productivity along the outstanding efficiency and ease of through two sales and manufacturing entire value chain and, more use, ISEKI has secured a stable share sites. ISEKI is also strengthening its importantly, improved quality of life of the highly competitive domestic presence in Southeast Asia with the for farmers,” says president Noriyuki market. To accelerate its expansion start-up of a tractor production plant Kimura. “We are harnessing our in Asia, ISEKI is investing in new in Indonesia in January and the core competencies to accelerate machine types that satisfy differing formation of a Thai sales company in overseas deployment with an eye market needs. For China, it has rolled collaboration with Mitsubishi. on Asia, where mechanisation out rice transplanters, combine “We are keen on forging more is advancing remarkably because harvesters and vegetable-growing business alliances and joint of government support.” equipment with improved adaptability ventures in Asia,” Kimura says. ISEKI’s strength lies on farming to local crop and field conditions. “Asia, where rice is the most widely machinery, particularly tractors, high- “Innovation drives our company,” consumed staple food, will propel clearance multipurpose vehicles, rice Kimura says. “We strive for our future growth.”

Hulic contributes to urban and national development The continuing development of Hulic’s buildings are engineered Japan and its capital relies on the to stand up to intensity 7 earthquakes contribution of companies that on the Japan Meteorological Agency prioritise the public good. Hulic is the scale. The company has also fourth-largest Japanese real estate collaborated with the Massachusetts company that specialises in leasing Institute of Technology on a device medium-sized office buildings in for natural ventilation and lighting, Tokyo. By focusing on the needs of its which enables the reduction of tenants, Hulic has become a carbon dioxide emissions by more significant contributor to urban and than 40 per cent per building national economic growth. compared to previous technology. “Because 99 per cent of Hulic has also embarked on solar Japanese businesses are small- power generation activities in and mid-sized companies and high abandoned areas near the corporate taxes prevent large-sized Fukushima nuclear plant that could global companies from increasing Saburo Nishiura, provide extremely inexpensive their base in Tokyo, we stay in president and CEO electricity for its tenants. The the mid-sized office market,” company looks to replicate these says a Hulic spokesman. activities in Japan’s rural areas. Hulic’s tenants enjoy easy access vacancy rate of 0.4 per cent for Dedicated to contributing to to its buildings, with 88 per cent of its all of its 161 properties. society, Hulic has expanded into portfolio located in Tokyo’s top five The company is investing senior care facilities. With 18 nursing districts. Most of these buildings are aggressively to increase leasing homes in its portfolio, the company within walking distance of a metro spaces. Hulic’s market capitalisation is looking to develop opportunities rail station. This proximity has amount has grown 13 times since in this sector by working with resulted in Hulic’s super-low its initial public offering in 2008. partners in Southeast Asia. Friday, July 4, 2014 S7 Sponsored Section in co-operation with Discovery Reports SPECIAL REPORT: JAPAN COUNTRY REPORT Paradigm shift fortifies Lippo Cikarang as a pillar of the Indonesian economy

he tide is turning for Spurred by a growing demand for Cikarang, the industrial mixed-use properties, it also plans to capital of Bekasi Regency Groundbreaking ceremony of launch more projects such as the in Indonesia’s West Java the Cikarang Hotel Residence Residential Ambrosia Arcade, Cosmo located about 30 kilometres project at Toyota Tsusho Land Center and Cosmo eTast of Jakarta. Reflecting the in Lippo Cikarang. Center Extension. country’s robust industrial For its industrial district, development fuelled by record-high Lippo Cikarang has found fresh foreign direct investments and rapid opportunities in providing high value- credit growth, the city is bustling with added services to potential land life, commerce and progress – and at purchasers, while focusing on the the heart of it is Lippo Cikarang. existing industrial clients within the Acclaimed as a self-contained many Lippo Cikarang Delta Industrial city, Lippo Cikarang is home to more Zones. Leveraging its experience and than 45,000 residents, 892 ability to provide land and building, shophouses and 820 factories. document processing assistance and Supporting the region’s growing logistics, the township is able to give light-medium industrial sector, it has potential buyers a convenient and created more than 80,000 jobs and speedy operational start-up. welcomes 350,000 daily workers. This advantage was Completing the community are some demonstrated at the grand launch of of the country’s renowned the 5.2-hectare Japanese SMEs international educational institutions Center, which was able to be fully and biggest, most advanced operational soon after the facility’s hospitals. completion. The ready-to-use facility Lippo Cikarang’s success is was especially developed for local rooted in its strategic location and global small and medium between Indonesia’s largest cities, enterprises. While supporting the greater Jakarta and Bandung – the smaller yet necessary operations Cikarang Industrial Corridor – where within the automotive cluster in more than half of Indonesia’s light- the region, it is projected to pave medium industrial output is the way for interested businesses in manufactured. The corridor nurtures Lippo Cikarang to step up its efforts and residential conveniences in investing in the CBD is the opening of hospitals, dormitories and family- the experience of a distinctive other sectors. several car and electronic clusters as a pillar of the regional economy by one place.” the Jakarta-Cikampek Km 34.7 toll exit friendly spaces, along with rental ambience for every area of the “This project highlights Lippo and houses an expansive range of adopting a paradigm shift – at the Lippo Cikarang started to take the and access road in April this year. A offices and commercial township. Cikarang’s commitment to turnkey other critical light- to medium-size core of which is the township’s initial steps towards realising its joint project between Lippo Cikarang infrastructure. Loh revealed plans to The residential segment, for operations, with entrepreneurs able production facilities. It accounts for transformation into a new central smart and green CBD concept last and Jababeka, the toll gate provides locate schools within the CBD, instance, features luxurious, green to move in and operate – on the same up to 50 per cent of domestic light- business district (CBD) in Cikarang. year, leveraging the expertise it an alternative, yet direct route to the including one international school, and clean landscapes, wide well-lit day,” Loh says. “With a land bank and medium industrial output, making it a gained from successfully developing CBD and Lippo Cikarang township. one Japanese school, a technical roads, and finely constructed houses a wealth of construction know-how primary driver of the country’s solid Next urban nexus on the rise and growing a comprehensive The new city centre’s master plan training college and a sub-campus of and condominium apartments. Last to draw upon, domestic and decade of global economic growth. industrial township that is acclaimed entails the development of a non- the Pelita Harapan University. year, Lippo Cikarang launched a international companies can take “Having a good master plan as a Recognising continued growth within for its first-rate infrastructure and industrial, integrated area on a Lippo Cikarang will set up mix of high-rise apartment units and advantage of our strong township where industry harmonises the Cikarang Industrial Corridor – supporting services and adoption of 320-hectare plot next to Lippo multicultural centres within the landed houses in a variety of styles, infrastructure for light-medium with community and nature has been shored up by a vibrant national the world’s best practices in terms of Cikarang. The mixed-use superblock planned office towers and multi-use including the Trivium Terrace industry within all of the 5 Delta a crucial component of that economy, Lippo Cikarang is shifting green belting, zone planning and is targeted for completion within 15 to commercial areas to highlight the Apartments, Ambrosia and Acacia Industrial Estates.” success,” says Meow Chong Loh, its focus from industrial estate traffic calming. 20 years at a total investment cost of marriage of modern architecture and Garden Extension. Launched in partnership with Lippo Cikarang’s president and CEO. development to more and higher “The CBD will be developed as a between 6 trillion rupiah (HK$4 billion) traditional heritage. With the aim of Recognised for its exceptional Tokyo-headquartered telecoms “Our sense of accomplishment profile housing construction and smart, green city replete with world- and 10 trillion rupiah. In the first “bringing the world” to the CBD, projects, Lippo Cikarang received the leader Forval, the centre is comes from knowing we develop commercial projects. This newly class facilities and amenities to cater phase, Lippo Cikarang will develop Lippo Cikarang will put up targeted 2013 Green Property Award for envisioned to help Japanese residences where people can feel at chartered course will allow Lippo to the growing expatriate community 13 hectares of the CBD area that will restaurants and entertainment Favourite Residential and Green investors of all sizes to develop their home; commercial areas with a Cikarang to support its existing in the eastern Jakarta corridor, as be operational in the next four to centres specific for Japanese, Transportation from Housing Estate business in Indonesia. branded image and products that industrial zones and surrounding well as Indonesia’s middle- to high- five years. Korean and Chinese residents and Magazine. It was also conferred the Since it opened, the centre has attract customers; and a thriving industrial parks, and accommodate income market,” Loh says. “This Residential projects will include investors – another way of catering to 2013 Property Award by Indonesia already welcomed seven companies, light-medium industrial park the imminent influx of new residential, would be the flagship large-scale, high-end apartments and the growing multicultural populace Property Magazine. including key industry players Summit in a township with good commercial and business customers smart city in the country, serving as condominiums and Soho properties of Cikarang. The township’s commercial area, Electrical Steel Processing, infrastructure and growing in the region. the gateway to seven industrial combining vibrant living and shopping Guided by the Indonesian comprising more than 892 Katsuyamaseiki KKB, Kobayu amenities.” “This year marks a paradigm shift estates in the Bekasi region.” enclaves. Lippo Cikarang plans to concepts of aman, meaning security, shophouses, also boosted its appeal Trading Indonesia, Tsujikawa and Another factor behind the for Lippo Cikarang as we formalise Collaborating with a number of launch the first CBD project in the and nyaman, meaning conducive to local and international guests last Nihon Haken. township’s success is Indonesia’s our greater focus on commercial and key partners, Lippo Cikarang aims to third quarter of this year – the environment, Lippo Cikarang is year with the opening of the Makino “Mirroring the kind of synergy largest property developer, Lippo residential developments with the promote smart living to achieve an 61-storey Iconic Tower consisting of unwavering in its commitment to Showroom and the Telaga Seafood and dynamism that Lippo Cikarang Group. Recognised among the best of unveiling of our planned central environmentally responsive urban apartments, commercial offices, create a secure, conducive Restaurant. Other attractions include represents, the Japanese SMEs its kind locally and across Asia, the business district,” Loh says. “We surrounding in the new city centre. It hotels and an exhibition centre. “We environment for its residents, clients the WaterBom Park, the Citywalk and Center is set to open more doors for Indonesian business leader has envision developing a welcoming city will invest in state-of-the-art are open to opportunities for and visitors to live, work and play. Easton Commercial Center. business and investment for grown alongside the country as a centre in the eastern corridor of technologies to sustain a green- collaboration and strategic alliances Unparalleled by other industrial Japanese entrepreneurs seeking a steward whose passion and hard Jakarta, serving as a hub for greater concept city and efficiently manage to hasten the development of the Work, live and play zones in the region, Lippo Cikarang’s vibrant, sustainable region,” Loh work impact the lives of many. The Jakarta and Bandung. It will be a full- facilities for communications, Cikarang CBD,” Loh says. commercial division is set to offer a says. “We are also thrilled to see how group has a diverse portfolio covering featured urban nexus and positioned sewage, water supply, solid waste The city centre will also house Living up to its concept of “work, live wider selection of small, medium and it grows to contribute further to the property, retail, media and as the best place to be outside of disposal and security. modern support facilities, such as and play”, Lippo Cikarang offers large commercial spaces, within Indonesia’s economy.” education sectors, and has a regional Jakarta, offering all business, leisure Enhancing the attractiveness of shopping malls, restaurants, residents, workers and visitors indoor and outdoor shopping centres. Last year also witnessed the presence in China and several other opening of Hankook Tire Indonesia Asian countries. and the development of smaller Lippo Cikarang’s ability to turn multifunction structures combining roughly 3,000 hectares of land into office, shop-house and storage valuable developments has facilities within the Delta positioned the township as a pillar of Commercial Park. the regional economy, which is “As Lippo Cikarang moves expected to flourish further alongside through a new paradigm towards the national growth. As of last year, a role as a central business district, Lippo Cikarang has allocated prime the industrial division will continue industrial land to more than 820 to ensure that existing clients get factories such as Hankook, Danone the maximum benefit from the Dairy Indonesia and Kia Motors. strategic development of existing Amid the relaxed global economic industrial areas, as well as the performance, Indonesia maintained a support of Lippo Cikarang’s stable gross domestic product residential and commercial growth at 5.7 per cent last year. complexes,” Loh says. Mitigation measures made by the “The division will continue to offer government helped in controlling industrial land with exceptional inflation, avoiding asset bubbles and value-added features for domestic boosting investor confidence in the Integrating ‘work, live and play’, Lippo Cikarang offers its 45,000 residents diverse and overseas investors who seek to local market. The new Jakarta-Cikampek Km 34.7 toll gate as a direct access to Lippo options among finely constructed houses and condominium apartments that benefit from Indonesia’s continuing These conditions have motivated Cikarang. feature luxurious, green and clean landscapes with wide well-lit roads. economic growth.” Aggressive, sustainable growth drives business prospects Indonesia and Lippo Cikarang reflect “We are proud to say that this within the corridor and better Empowering a green, policies allow everyone to experience environment-oriented programmes. Cikarang contributes learning one another beyond sharing an growth was not based on speculation, accommodate its growing population, sustainable community a safe, clean and enjoyable The township has planted an equipment and teaching assistance – upbeat outlook. A rich history and an but was achieved through the Lippo Cikarang is investing in more environment.” astounding 91,500 trees as of last year, and even provides on-the-job training aggressive growth strategy company’s rapid transformation – commercial, business and Alongside Lippo Cikarang’s new Lippo Cikarang strives to match and continues to target planting 5,000 and research for high school and complement a vision to which their which raised our value,” Loh says. residential projects. paradigm is another transformation. every development in the township additional trees annually. college students. citizens and residents aspire: a better “The strong share price demonstrates “The light-medium industrial What began as the integration of an with a tangible commitment to support Passing on the virtue to its young Encompassing pre-sale, product quality of life. how Lippo Cikarang has grown into an sector continues to be an attractive industrial powerhouse with a dynamic its stakeholders – from daily residents, Lippo Cikarang has also quality and post-sale service, product “Our greatest contribution to industrial township with the most investment magnet for Indonesia. It is commercial centre and a pleasant workers to permanent residents launched a Mini Nursery programme, responsibility is taken seriously at Cikarang and Indonesia in general complete infrastructure in place.” especially apparent in the Cikarang neighbourhood through the and global investors – in the present wherein tree planting is introduced in Lippo Cikarang, which ensures that is the creation of an environment Industrial Corridor, whose proximity to township’s “work, live and play” and the future. a dozen schools within the township. customer support and means for conducive for comfortable, better- Evolving township ushers the airport, international port, railway concept is evolving into so much For instance, together with the At the workplace, Lippo Cikarang customer contact and input are quality living,” says Lippo Cikarang brighter business prospects and highway appeals to international more: the empowerment of a green, successful launch of various promotes the Less Paper programme, provided for each area. president and CEO Meow Chong Loh. and domestic companies,” Loh says. sustainable community. residential, commercial and industrial which aims to increase efficiency Even before any sale or This commitment traces back to The number of people who work and “We aim to further open up this area “The township’s success is based projects last year, Lippo Cikarang has while reducing waste by optimising transaction, Lippo Cikarang certifies 1995 when the company started its live along the Cikarang Industrial to usher more opportunities for our largely on a holistic approach to help also completed its third water the usage of office supplies and that all relevant information available property development business with Corridor continues to grow, drawn existing stakeholders, while inviting industrial clients move quickly from treatment plant. This accomplishment equipment. Throughout the township, is clear and every staff is well-trained high ideals of building a by vast employment opportunities even more tenants, residents and idea to realisation,” Loh says. “This has strengthened the township’s the conservation of electricity, to handle customers’ needs. As for comprehensive township and within the region’s industrial zones visitors to enjoy the facilities of includes putting in place sufficient capability to channel 100-per-cent water and other resources is also maintaining product quality, the becoming Indonesia’s premier and residential estates. To bring Lippo Cikarang and help diversify infrastructure that ensures our treated water via two independent widely encouraged. township guarantees uncompromised industry, commercial and residential- together business interests generated the community.” stringent security and eco-friendly water sources. At the centre of Lippo Cikarang’s quality by using only the best based urban development. Such developments are part of the social and community development materials and performing on-site As part of the reputable and township’s broader corporate social efforts are long-standing relationships quality control. widely diversified Lippo Group, responsibility (CSR) programme, with various organisations within and Post-sale service is provided 24/7 whose core businesses include which aims to benefit stakeholders in surrounding the township. through the town management property and retail, Lippo Cikarang three major areas: sustainable “Ranging from sports tournaments division. In addition to contacting listed on the Indonesia Stock environmental conservation, social to disaster relief and emergency permanently posted Lippo Cikarang Exchange in 1997. Drawing from the and community development and management efforts, our programmes security personnel, residents can group’s in-depth know-how of the product responsibility. provide a well-rounded approach to get access to customer service country’s residential and commercial A single drive through the adding to community spirit and to online or through a dedicated property landscape, comprehensive township will let anyone see how community empowerment,” Loh says. telephone line. experience and far-reaching network, Lippo Cikarang values the The community played an active “With Lippo Cikarang’s growth Lippo Cikarang land developed environment. Featuring careful and role in helping flood victims in Bekasi expected to continue this year and into one of the region’s biggest best-practice zoning in all industrial, last year by providing food, drinks, beyond, our stakeholders and other economic drivers. commercial and residential areas, it medicines and other emergency interested parties can count on Fuelled further by the continued incorporates natural and supplies. It also engages in providing seeing constant improvements,” influx of foreign investments and the environmentally sustainable elements clean water to surrounding villages Loh says. “We look forward to rising Indonesian middle class, the in all its developments, town during the dry season, and provides providing additional schools, company saw its stock price rise from management activities and support for the renovation of hospitals, hotels, commercial zones – 376 rupiah (HK$0.25) to more than programmes. public facilities. and more beautiful, greener 8,000 rupiah per share in the past six Tree planting has been one of the Stimulating educational activities infrastructure that is the hallmark of years alone. Lagoon Arcade, a lakeside food and beverage complex located at the green area of Lippo Cikarang. community’s most remarkable in neighbouring villages, Lippo Lippo Cikarang.” S8 Friday, July 4, 2014 SPECIAL REPORT: JAPAN COUNTRY REPORT Sponsored Section in co-operation with Discovery Reports Alps Electric caters Kagome cultivates healthy, to global players, innovative flavours for Asian palates When Kagome founder Ichitaro pride in paving the way for healthier – from making nutritious strengthens R&D Kanie grew Japan’s first tomatoes in lifestyles.” products, to supporting local 1899, he reaped more than a new The company has also mapped farmers and imparting know- crop variety; he cultivated a healthy, various one-of-a-kind tomato flavour how to agriculture-oriented flavourful and revolutionary food that profiles to match diverse consumer countries such as Myanmar and provides nourishment and tastes. This provided Kagome the India,” Nishi says. “Kagome will capabilities in China sustainable livelihood in Japan. edge to venture overseas, initially in grow only if it supports the growth of More than a century later, Taiwan where it has grown a society as a whole.” Kagome has grown vertically following of health-conscious ar navigation systems able Chinese manufacturers need for The engineering team in Japan integrated – from seed management consumers for 45 years. to receive signals from high-end smartphones. Aside from takes the lead in developing new to cultivation, ingredient processing, Kagome’s food and beverage multiple global navigation enhancing technical support for applications for health care and manufacturing, marketing and sales. products are sold in more than satellite systems, smartphone manufacturers, energy saving. Alps expects In addition to selecting the finest 50 regions, including Thailand, capacitive trackpads that the Wuxi R&D Center aims robust prospects in these sectors from 7,500 tomato varieties to suit its Hong Kong and the mainland, where Cdistinguish five finger points and to participate in the Chinese for Japan and China. range of juices, sauces and the company will establish a reject inputs from large objects such government’s “Wulianwang” social The company also keeps its condiments, Kagome develops condiments factory in Tianjin this as a palm, wearable diagnostic infrastructure project by introducing fully automated production of patented varieties, such as its year to supply food service systems and walk detection radar advanced sensor systems and application-specific integrated LYLYCO brand tomatoes that boast industries worldwide. systems for the elderly that do not communications modules. circuits mainly in Japan to ensure two to three times the lycopene Kagome welcomes interested invade their privacy – these are Alps has design teams for the car consistent quality for orders that run content of regular variants. distributors and food-related upcoming innovations in the car, industry at its Dalian R&D Center. into several million units per month. “We created the tomato businesses, including restaurants consumer electronics and health Alpine Electronics, a group company, Alps is the main supplier of condiments market in Japan and bakeries seeking to add new care industries. Developed by Alps has an equity stake in Neusoft, which smartphone switches globally. 110 years ago; 30 years later, we flavours to their menus. It also looks Electric, the products combine input, is based in Shenyang and is the “We are the company that caters introduced the tomato juice,” forward to collaborative projects sensor and connectivity technologies largest software solutions and to the global players,” Kuriyama says. says Hidenori Nishi, Kagome with clients and like-minded partners that have driven the company’s services provider in China. Another “Our achievements and history have chairman. “Today, Kagome aiming to make a difference with success over the past 60 years. R&D facility in Shanghai spurs led all of our customers to trust us.” commands more than half of Japan’s healthy, sustainable products. Hidenori Nishi, “Right, unique and green – these product development of connectivity vegetable juice market valued at “Creating shared value is vital to chairman are the three key words in our technology such as software and nearly US$1.5 billion. We take great our vision of making a mark globally product development,” says evaluates solutions. Toshihiro Kuriyama, Alps Electric Meanwhile, affiliates in president. “Individual market North America specialise in requirements are different, but advanced human-machine the basic technology of the products interface products such as Daishin Chemical leads with is the same.” touch panels and A preferred technology partner capacitive trackpads. of top-tier manufacturers in the car European units develop and consumer electronics industries, steering modules, power blend of experience, innovation the company is strengthening window switches, keyless overseas research and development entry systems and other Achieving the perfect blend of over 60 years of history in Japan by raw materials from China and less “We look forward to working (R&D) capabilities, especially in-car modules for premium products may be a long-term goal for acquiring various knowledge and than 10 per cent from South Korea. with companies seeking not only a in China. global car brands. most manufacturers, but for Japan’s expertise – distinguish Daishin,” It provides solvents mostly to supplier that can bring high-quality It opened its Wuxi R&D Center in top solvent manufacturer Daishin says president Hisaki Sugiura. “It is, Japanese companies, but welcomes products, but a reliable partner with December last year to enable the Chemical, it is a daily affair. however, our dedication to safety opportunities for overseas business the right combination of know-how local development and design of Daishin produces 25,000 varieties and customer satisfaction that has expansion with potential partners and expertise that they can grow camera actuators, connectors, input of organic solvent from about 300 earned the trust and repeat business who are interested in its know-how. with,” Sugiura says. devices and other components that different base ingredients using from world-renowned brands.” specialised blending equipment and Daishin’s competitive strengths automated production systems. are complemented by an extensive It turns out batches as small as a sales network of 800 distributors, Our achievements single 18-litre can and delivers as which help translate market and history have fast as the next day – an edge feedback into continuously improved crucial to clients handling potent, products and services. Among the led all of our delicate chemicals to make diverse company’s innovations are eco- products, from paints and coatings friendly products such as toluene- customers to to automotives, electronics, free solutions used in food trust us pharmaceuticals and food packaging applications. packaging. The company also collaborates Toshihiro Kuriyama “Quality, customisability, cost with the car industry, whose President, Alps Electric efficiency and fast delivery – honed recyclable by-products are processed as Daishin’s raw materials instead of going to waste. Most of the finished products are then delivered back to companies such as Toyota. Apart from recycling materials, Daishin buys about 30 per cent of its Hisaki Sugiura, president Environmental sensors promote green business

DKK-TOA Corporation has been a under DKK-TOA in Japan, and Hach specialised manufacturer of to market DKK-TOA products outside diversified analytical instruments for Japan. This strategy enables both laboratories, drinking water and companies to leverage each other’s wastewater treatment, environmental sales networks. Hach China also conservation and process control in helps DKK-TOA reach the Chinese various industries since it was market and obtain product approvals founded in 1945. from the Ministry of Environmental Areas with high industrial activity Protection. With the help of Hach experience a continuing deterioration China, DKK-TOA has sought approval of air and water quality that, if left for the FPM-377 Particulate Analyzer, unaddressed, could prove detrimental a device that monitors fine and coarse to the population. Putting the spotlight particulate matter measuring 2.5 on ecological accountability, micrometres (PM2.5). Minute PM2.5 DKK-TOA engineers air and water dust can cause cardiopulmonary monitoring instruments to help Teruo Sasaki, president diseases and respiratory infections. companies implement Aside from China, DKK-TOA plans environmentally friendly business to grow its business through practices that can make the world a United States-based Hach Company, distributors in Thailand, Indonesia, much safer place. Green stewardship a leader in the analytical instrument Singapore and India to fulfil its vision is at the heart of DKK-TOA’s business. field. The two companies have been of becoming a global company. Celebrating its 70th anniversary this collaborating for almost a decade, Judging by its 55 consecutive year, the company strengthens the embarking on joint research and months of profits, many companies development of environmental development projects. One product of trust in DKK-TOA. “Our customers measuring instruments based on its the collaboration with Hach China is a are our top priority,” says president own sensor technologies. heavy metal analyser. Teruo Sasaki. “It is very difficult to To continuously develop cutting- The partnership also allows grow continuously if you do not try to edge products, DKK-TOA works with DKK-TOA to market Hach products please customers.”

Flour expert Nippn delivers modern food products to Asia

As the first industrial flour milling at the forefront of the food industry,” company in Japan to introduce says Hiroshi Sawada, chairman and modern machinery, Nippon Flour CEO. “Our research and development Mills (Nippn) was instrumental in team is in constant pursuit of modern- developing the country’s food culture day food and health possibilities.” by promoting wheat-based cuisine Nippn identifies business since 1896. More than a century later, diversification as key to its success in Nippn continues to produce high- Japan and abroad. Driven by the quality and tasty food products as it desire to maximise customer expands into processed food such as satisfaction and to contribute to frozen food that meet today’s society, Nippn ventures into the consumption demands. health care and pet food sectors. Changing tastes and lifestyles Expanding its reach in Asia, Nippn propelled Nippn to evolve into an opened an office in Indonesia. Its extensive food enterprise generating Hiroshi Sawada, subsidiaries in Thailand and China a range of wheat product derivatives. chairman and CEO support clients moving out of Japan Apart from keeping its flour milling and into each market. operations at its core, Nippn is “Our target is to expand our reinforcing its premix line – a produces and distributes a variety of overseas business,” Sawada says. consistent top-seller among food such as frozen food, pasta items “Applying our technology expertise institutional customers for the and other products. and sales strengths in our grain and premix’s quality and taste. In addition, “We balance consumer- wheat flour businesses, we will Nippn also develops products with conscious product development develop new enterprises and the individual consumer in mind. Led with changing tastes in food and products to continually grow and be by its flagship brand Oh’my, Nippn responsible market expansion to stay relevant in today’s markets.” Friday, July 4, 2014 S9 Sponsored Section in co-operation with Discovery Reports SPECIAL REPORT: JAPAN COUNTRY REPORT Astellas gives patients hope with drug discoveries

stellas Pharma, a global value-added drugs. The company added drugs broadly to patients contributing to the growth of the OAB pharmaceutical company then delivers them globally by around the world. The company is franchise in the urology area. With its headquartered in Tokyo focusing on selected multiple expanding its business in the Asia generic name solifenacin, Vesicare and driven by a strong therapeutic areas or categories and Oceania regions under the same has created a worldwide success as commitment to research where a high degree of medical concept. Astellas has achieved high a reliable treatment for OAB. With its Aand development (R&D), exhibits needs remain unsatisfied. double-digit growth rates across generic name mirabegron, Betanis/ special dedication to its business Astellas has established its these regions. In July last year, Myrbetriq/BETMIGA is Astellas’ philosophy. It lives and breathes its position as a GCL in urology and Astellas set up a sales affiliate in driving force to further become an mission of improving the health of transplants, and has committed its Singapore to support its expansion in established GCL in the area people around the world through the resources to also becoming a GCL in the area by securing distribution of urology. provision of innovative and reliable the field of oncology. Other future channels in Singapore, Malaysia and pharmaceutical products. The GCL areas include immunology and Brunei. This enabled Astellas to Establishing oncology company was born out of a merger in infectious diseases, neuroscience, consolidate its business expansion as third GCL 2005 between two Japanese diabetes mellitus complications and with 10 sales subsidiaries in the Asia pharmaceutical companies – kidney diseases. and Oceania regions. Astellas is also gaining traction in Yamanouchi Pharmaceutical and “We’re building our competitive cancer treatment. “We would like to Fujisawa Pharmaceutical. It was an advantage by focusing our assets, establish our business platforms, integration that combined more than know-how and technology on these especially for oncology as our third Yoshihiko Hatanaka, two centuries of pharmaceutical fields,” Hatanaka says. “Our By predicting GCL domain,” Hatanaka says. “We’ve president and CEO expertise and history. competitive strength lies in our future been actively investing in this area Since the merger, Astellas has led network of R&D, marketing and since we declared our intention to important breakthroughs in the sales, and key opinion leaders environmental enter this field in 2006.” medical field by combining its high strongly built based on our The company’s key to building a designation”. It is a process designed The second challenge is big initiatives. With a management R&D capabilities with its true passion capabilities for the GCL changes and using leading position in the field of to expedite the development and enhancing innovation. “We have based on corporate social for patients. Throughout this, the key business model.” our high R&D oncology lies in its latest prostate review of innovative drugs that are re-examined the allocation of R&D responsibility, the company has word has been “innovation”. Such an approach has made it cancer treatment, XTANDI. Because intended to treat a serious or life- resources and have been reshaping supported many activities that give “Innovation is the source of our possible for the company to create competencies, we XTANDI is an anti-cancer agent in threatening disease or symptom. our research framework since last patients and their families courage growth,” says Yoshihiko Hatanaka, new innovative drugs. With the GCL the therapeutic area of urology, To be considered under such year as a part of this challenge,” in battling illnesses. These president and CEO of Astellas. “By model serving as its key success have dedicated where Astellas commands a strong designation, the drug must Hatanaka says. “We have, for projects include funding for patient predicting future environmental driver, Astellas has been able to our efforts to position, the company expects to demonstrate preliminary clinical example, started a new research groups, peer support training changes and using our high R&D achieve sustainable growth and achieve beneficial synergies with evidence indicating it brings management system last April. This programmes and web-based competencies, we have dedicated resiliently respond to environmental innovative high this existing business. substantial improvement over strategy includes strengthening the information services. our efforts to innovative high value- and market changes. XTANDI was launched in available therapy. authority and responsibility in each Astellas has adopted the added drug discovery. We’ve made value-added drug September 2012 in the US, in July last To capture this forecast global therapeutic area to enhance the communication slogan, “Changing steady progress globally by Expanding global business discovery year in Britain and in Japan last May expansion in the pharmaceutical autonomy and agility of each unit. tomorrow”, reflecting its desire to accelerating the development of for the indication of metastatic industry, Astellas will pursue its GCL This is to actively leverage more help each patient by continuously pipeline medicines and continuously True enough, the adoption of the Yoshihiko Hatanaka castration-resistant prostate cancer strategy and has committed to external innovation, utilising more of creating innovative drugs. Named introducing innovative products to business model has paid off as the President and CEO, Astellas in patients who have previously achieve sustainable expansion into its capabilities and resources.” after this slogan, the “Changing the market.” company has grown steadily in the received docetaxel chemotherapy. the future. For its sustainable growth, The third challenge is pursuing Tomorrow Day” is Astellas’ group- past several years. Today, Astellas is The drug has been introduced in the company is focused on three operational excellence. Astellas is wide effort to contribute to local Innovation’s role in the second-largest pharmaceutical “China is the centre of our more than 20 countries under the strategic challenges – maximising accelerating its initiatives aiming communities. For example, last year, business operations company for proprietary ethical regional market expansion,” XTANDI brand. The company is the value of new innovative products, to build the organisation and employees from the Kurume sales drugs in Japan, which is the second- Hatanaka says. “It accounts for strengthening its oncology franchise enhancing innovation and pursuing structure to resiliently respond to office in Japan interacted with Astellas commits itself to proprietary biggest pharmaceutical market in the about half of our total sales in the by expanding the drug’s indications operational excellence. environmental changes. As one people in aged care facilities by ethical pharmaceutical business. In world besides the United States. Asia and Oceania regions, driven by or treatment coverage. The first challenge of maximising of its achievements, the company cleaning the premises and assisting particular, the company focuses on Globally, Astellas ranks as one of the a sales force of about 720 MRs. We’ll the value of new innovative products has improved its global in recreational activities such as innovative drug discovery in areas top 20 pharmaceutical companies. capture this market opportunity Ensuring sustained growth comes about as the company tries to pharmacovigilance or drug safety origami and singing children’s songs. where unmet medical needs exist The Astellas Group has about through the expanded marketing of offset the effects of the so-called structure by establishing its Global In China, Astellas’ employees take and where growth can be expected 18,000 employees on a global basis. our global products. We would also “We see promising growth in the patent cliff. As Astellas focuses on Pharmacovigilance Excellence time to discuss the importance of through innovation. Generic drugs or The company has been expanding its like to build a comprehensive global pharmaceutical market in the the innovative drug business, it will Program. The move ensures medicines with grade school over-the-counter, non-prescription business globally from Japan to the strategy, which includes future,” Hatanaka says. “While likely face a decline in sales after the compliance with regulatory students. medications are beyond Astellas’ Americas and Europe with its own strengthening regional R&D medical needs are continuously patent expiration of some of its requirements in each country and “Patients are at the frontline of business scope. distribution channels in about 50 capabilities in the future in the Asia increasing globally, the innovative products. Astellas heads this off by organically integrates the process our business, and we deliver the To engage in its core business, countries around the world. These and Oceania regions.” drug review system is improving in committing to maximise the value of under the control of the chief progress of science by transforming Astellas has been consistently channels are driven by a sales force In the two established GCL areas, each country.” its new innovative products with a medical officer. it into values that will benefit them,” pursuing its global category leader of about 6,300 medical immunosuppressant Prograf is a Among the strongest drivers of focus on its future growth drivers. Hatanaka says. “Although this may (GCL) business model since the representatives (MRs). mainstay product in the industry growth, however, is the These medications include XTANDI Passionate about sound natural and nothing new, we merger. Through such a strategy, the Astellas has a well-balanced transplantation franchise. Vesicare increasing value placed by in the oncology franchise and changing tomorrow make sure our employees never company has been establishing a global business spanning Japan, the and Betanis/Myrbetriq/BETMIGA, governments and health care Vesicare and Betanis/Myrbetriq/ forget that all our efforts are for the competitive advantage as a market Americas and Europe and wants to which are treatments for an institutions worldwide on the concept BETMIGA in the OAB franchise Astellas, however, recognises that patients. This is the value we rely on leader in creating innovative high deliver its innovative high value- overactive bladder (OAB), are of “breakthrough therapy in urology. small things matter as much as its every day.” Haruyama changes business wear with innovative technology

Fusing classic and elegant style with for 40 years, Haruyama has 373 in Japan, and we make sure to innovative manufacturing outlets across Japan. It sells men’s accommodate every detailed techniques, Haruyama Trading suits, jackets, slacks, formal shirts request,” Haruyama says. “As a creates an affordable luxury for and accessories, and a small range result, we have already sold more today’s working class with ingenious of women’s wear and accessories. than 500,000 i-shirts.” and functional business apparel. Sales remain robust, from 51.53 billion Keeping customers in mind, Haruyama began as an importer yen (HK$3.9 billion) in 2012 to Haruyama has developed market- of European fabrics tailored to the 52.37 billion yen last year. leading products. It designed a specifications of the Japanese Known for its excellent service, machine-washable suit to save on market. “The Japanese are known Haruyama provided the uniforms of dry cleaning bills. Its lightweight suit for arranging details and developing the Japanese national team at the made from stretchable fabric can be new improvements,” says president 2008 Beijing Olympics. It showcased worn even while playing golf. Those Masashi Haruyama. “This its bestselling i-shirt, which has who are on the go will benefit from is reflected in our apparels cooling properties, is quick-drying, Haruyama’s impact-absorbing and and accessories.” stretchable and non-iron. “The weight-relieving business shoes. For Fabricating one-of-a-kind ideas quality across the board is very high anime fanatics, last year it launched collaborative formal wear and accessories themed after Evangelion and JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure. To meet the increasing demand for formal shirts in China, Haruyama opened four overseas stores in Shanghai, Nanjing and Jiangsu. With more than 200 established relationships with contracted factories in Asia, it targets Singapore, Indonesia, Taiwan, Malaysia and Vietnam for its future offerings and is open to partnerships to make this happen. “We will continuously create high-quality products that reflect our customers’ diverse tastes and changing lifestyles at reasonable Masashi Haruyama, president prices,” Haruyama says. Leading papermaker pursues mainland and Asian expansion

After 107 years of growth to become paperboard, which is about three contribute to the country’s paper one of the largest paper times Japan’s total production. HKP media culture, which embraces manufacturers in Japan, Hokuetsu will also be exporting 20 per cent of reading materials such as books and Kishu Paper (HKP) has set its sights the mill’s products. magazines. Cutting-edge technology on China and Southeast Asia. HKP also manufactures large and operational efficiency, Allocating 30 per cent of its quantities of paper in Japan, particularly in implementing energy- production for export to Asia, enabling it to maintain a steady efficient manufacturing techniques, Oceania and the United States, HKP supply of quality products that have allowed the company to has begun manufacturing overseas increase its output by 42 per cent and with the completion of its Jiangmen double its market share in Japan Xinghui Paper Mill in Guangdong. between 2007 and 2013. “We are real leaders in paper- As it continues to grow making technology,” says Sekio organically, HKP welcomes potential Kishimoto, president and CEO. “We mergers and acquisitions in the are confident that we will succeed in speciality paper and processing China because of the high-quality sector as part of its global strategy. standards of our technology.” The company is also open to HKP’s mill in Jiangmen produces partnerships with companies to build white paperboard for packaging or operate a speciality paper mill and purposes with a capacity of 300,000 invest in developing economies tonnes per year. The mill will begin across Asia. full-scale operations next month, “As a global company, we are with 80 per cent of its products to be keen on expanding in Asia,” used by Guangdong’s packaging Kishimoto says. “In terms of industries. The province consumes Sekio Kishimoto, globalisation, we are the industry more than 3 million tonnes of white president and CEO leader in Japan.” S10 Friday, July 4, 2014 SPECIAL REPORT: JAPAN COUNTRY REPORT Sponsored Section in co-operation with Discovery Reports Horizon brings printed text to the digital age

enturies have passed since the binding machines and sold these through learn how to adapt to new trends and in integrating its post-finishing technologies becoming the No 1 company providing invention of the printing press, trading companies. Moving from an original deliver relevant solutions. into digital printers. The company provides post-finishing solutions. but its effects on civilisation equipment manufacturer business model The company also established a an internet book retailer with bookbinding Horizon relies on the support of remain evident in the digital age. to a direct sales approach, Horizon has subsidiary in Germany, the home of the first machines, enabling it to print and bind distributors in Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen Printed materials, such as books, expanded its product portfolio to serve movable type printing press, to stay in tune books on demand. Horizon provided the and Hong Kong to grow its market share in Cspur widespread circulation of information broader market requirements. with cutting-edge technologies. ideal solution for high-mix and low-volume China. As one of the world’s production and ideas that help revolutionise the Celebrating its 68th anniversary this “Gutenberg was a big inventor because production. By working with Horizon capitals, China will immensely benefit modern world. year, Horizon offers intelligent automated he made innovative changes for and employing the on-demand model, from Horizon’s intelligent automated Horizon International is an important machines for paper finishing operations information transfer,” says Horizon’s the internet book retailer saves on machines as they offer greater efficiency component in the information chain as it such as folding, collating, binding, president Eijiro Hori. “We are facing a storage costs. and labour cost savings. manufactures innovative post-press stitching and cutting. similar environment change because of Outside Japan, mature markets such as “Asia is a little bit behind on digital equipment to meet the needs of print As the proliferation of digital the internet. It is changing our industry the United States and Europe are important printing,” Eijiro Hori says. “They are still service providers. publications threatens the printing industry, and if we don’t do anything, our company’s regions for Horizon. The Asian region, using offset printing machines. We want When Hachiro Hori established Horizon and in turn the company’s future growth, growth will be affected.” particularly China, is another promising to offer our solutions for both offset and Eijiro Hori, president in 1946, it initially manufactured tabletop Horizon attends global exhibitions to Horizon sees great growth opportunities area for Horizon to achieve its goal of digital printing to advance the industry.” Tokyu Fudosan spearheads Ascot Corp fuses traditional aesthetics transformation towards with modern living spaces

Residential construction in Japan, The condominiums developed by 5-metre ceilings and wide windows 2020 Olympic Games particularly the development of Ascot Corp reflect the perfect balance are installed in the bayside units to condominiums, has never been as of traditional and modern aesthetics. beautifully frame Tokyo Bay and the The much-anticipated 2020 Olympic rates. In confronting these issues, robust as it is today. In Tokyo alone, In its developments in the Nihombashi Rainbow Bridge. Ascot Corp goes the Games are set to showcase Japan’s the company believes it is important some 35,357 units were sold last year, and Asakusa districts of Tokyo, Ascot extra mile in ensuring that residents transformation since the country first to make Tokyo a truly globalised city. an increase of almost 16 per cent over Corp incorporates designs and live in homes with a pleasant and hosted the international sporting “To do that, we intend to push the same period in 2012, according to images from the Edo period, an era relaxing atmosphere. event in 1964. Much like athletes ahead with development, particularly the Land Institute of Japan. Ascot characterised by elegance and Similar to the MEW property, training to earn the Olympic gold, in central parts of Tokyo, and to focus Corp, one of Japan’s premier real refinement, in the exteriors and AscotPark Tokyo Riverside various industry champions are our attention on resolving social estate developers, aims to leverage its entrances of the condominiums. showcases the picturesque vista gearing up to develop and redevelop issues through our operations,” expertise in constructing high-value “Ascot Corp is capable of of a river. There are no other buildings Japan’s urban landscape in time for Kiyoshi says. “The key is building properties to direct investor interest provisioning condominiums that fronting the condominium, giving Kagaya Shinji, CEO the influx of global guests – and on and keeping our customers’ trust to many promising development areas are original and with high livability residents an unhampered view among the frontrunners is property by seeing through their point of view, in the country. levels,” Shinji says. of nature. Ascot Corp tapped developer Tokyu Fudosan Holdings while constantly making “We are confident that we Capitalising on the natural spatial designer Ryu Kosaka developments, Ascot Corp plans on Corporation. value-added innovations.” can contribute to the community magnificence of the Japanese to lend his architectural flair expanding to other parts of Asia. “We Tokyu Fudosan enjoys a proven Tokyu Fudosan marked its development in Tokyo as the city landscape, Ascot Corp designs in designing the exteriors and hope to provide original living spaces track record particularly in the Tokyo 60th anniversary in December attracts attention globally,” its properties to showcase the entrance of the condominium. that enrich people’s lives in Japan and metropolitan area, covering a wide- with a renewed promise to keep says CEO Kagaya Shinji. surroundings. In its MEW property, While its focus is Japanese other Asian countries,” Shinji says. ranging business domain – from One of our most its “enterprising challenging spirit” residential, office, commercial and alive by continuing to provide senior-oriented spaces to retail, important priorities high-quality products and services in agency, and management and ahead of the line with the changing times and renovation sectors. Spearheading shifting customer needs, focusing the Shibuya Station area Olympics is to turn primarily on aspects of everyday life. Monex redefines online trading redevelopment and Ginza 5-Chome “In response to the rapidly construction projects, it is confident Tokyo into a city changing business environment that its large-scale developments in people want to visit and increasingly diverse customer with global, multimarket access the run-up to the Olympics will needs, we will continue providing translate into real appeal for Kanazashi Kiyoshi our customers the value they investors and tourists alike. President and representative director, require through the combined A trailblazer in online trading – from empowering investors to directly mainland and Asia-Pacific. This year, “We take pride in making Tokyu Fudosan strengths of Tokyu Fudosan and all of creating the original night-time trading trade across multiple stock markets Monex has partnered with South significant contributions to the our group companies,” Kiyoshi says. platform to providing the first around the globe,” says Oki Korea’s second-largest broker, revitalisation of Tokyo and Japan as a help make the city more appealing “Making the most of our wide- 100-currency-denominated World Matsumoto, chairman and CEO. Shinhan Financial Group, which whole,” says Kanazashi Kiyoshi, and highly entertaining.” ranging business domain as a Bank Notes – Monex Group is now The group is the only broker will use TradeStation’s technology Tokyu Fudosan president and Beyond 2020, Tokyu Fudosan is comprehensive real estate group, paving the way for seamless global, with a strong retail client based in to boost its services. representative director. “One of our also committed to helping Japan we are determined to strengthen multimarket trading. Japan (Monex), the United States Monex is open to similar most important priorities ahead of the address bigger challenges such as a our value chain further through “In much the same way as online (TradeStation) and Hong Kong (Monex exchanges of values and local Olympics is to turn Tokyo into a city budget deficit and a declining group-wide collaboration – so trading has enabled even the smallest Boom Securities). Monex Boom in know-how with partners maintaining people want to visit. We believe population due to ageing that we can become customers’ retail investor to take charge of his Hong Kong enables clients to trade wide retail client bases. It welcomes improving these strategic areas will demographics and dwindling birth company of choice.” portfolio, Monex envisions further across 12 countries in Asia-Pacific brokers, banks and other institutions and the US in 15 stock exchanges. such as telecommunications Monex Boom allows as many as six companies, which aim to integrate types of currencies in one stock online trading in their offerings. trading account and automatically Oki Matsumoto, “We bring to every relationship converts investors’ money into chairman and CEO our expertise in the world’s most the settlement currency after broadly developed capital markets trade – eliminating the need and specialised technologies for prior conversion. platform,” Matsumoto says. Monex cultivated throughout the years,” “Once completed, our pursues its aspiration as a global Matsumoto says. “We aim to unite enhanced in-house developed global technology-based retail financial these advantages with the infrastructure will equip retail service provider through mergers and strengths of potential partners also investors to transcend even more acquisitions. It also invests in joint seeking to provide their clients geographic borders through a single ventures in key markets such as the value-added service.”

Aichi’s breakthrough technologies hoist work platform standards Before aerial work platforms became construction methods together with indispensable tools, elevated work our customers,” says Kimpei Mitsuya, areas could only be accessed through president. “We aim for zero worksite scaffolding or crane-supported man disaster and strive to increase work baskets, which posed significant risks safety and efficiency.” when working at height. Committed to Aichi continuously advocates eco- improving job site methods, Aichi friendly products by CO2 reduction. Corporation continuously hones its The company promotes electrification expertise in highly specialised efficiency through vehicle mechanised vehicles by creating digitalisation and leverages its parent efficient and innovative equipment firm’s cutting-edge hybrid technology. tailored to industry requirements Having a 31-per-cent market share and safety standards. for truck-mounted vehicles in China, Aichi, established in 1962, is a Aichi seeks further growth on the subsidiary of Toyota Industries, the Kimpei Mitsuya, president mainland. The company has a joint world leader in materials handling. venture operation and a It has since emerged as Japan’s manufacturing plant for building self- leading manufacturer of special truck-mounted vehicles and 82 propelled lifts located in Hangzhou. purpose vehicles for electric power per cent for self-propelled vehicles. “We will communicate with local industries, telecommunications, A problem-solving partner, Aichi partners to help us generate new construction and infrastructure- ensures that its products are in tune construction methods while keeping related industries, commanding with customers’ needs. “We conduct up with industry trends,” says Osamu 70 per cent market share for worksite visits and create new Miura, senior managing director.

Kobayashi Metals invites suppliers of industrial fasteners Dealing with more than 100,000 types and Shanghai, which handle shipping of industrial fasteners, Kobayashi and product testing to ensure Metals is Japan’s largest importer global standards, the company and supplier of nuts, bolts and maintains a network of large screws. For 88 years, the company international suppliers. has supported Japan’s industrial The company complements growth by catering to myriad this strong sourcing base with a sectors from civil and residential broad domestic distribution network. Toshiyuki Higaki, president construction to heavy equipment Such is comprised by many branch and vehicle manufacturing. offices nationwide spanning from “By offering complete product Kyushu in the south to Sapporo Focused on expanding its product sets, we save our customers the in the north. line and supplier network, the facility trouble of sourcing individual parts Kobayashi Metals continues to will accommodate items coming from many different suppliers,” expand its product offering. Early from other Asian manufacturers. says Toshiyuki Higaki, president in 2012, the company acquired The company will especially focus of Kobayashi Metals. “They also do Nakasho Machine, distributor of on smaller or mid-sized companies not need to keep their own machine tools such as power from the mainland and Taiwan. inventories because we can wrenches and drills. This line “We welcome manufacturers supply them with what they need, complements the company’s from Asia to join our growing base exactly when they need it.” portfolio, which includes hardware of international suppliers,” Higaki Kobayashi Metals is Japan’s for concrete products. says. “Having the strongest only listed company that extensively To maintain industry leadership, distribution network in Japan makes imports industrial fasteners. With Kobayashi Metals will build a us an ideal pipeline for their products the help of offices in Hong Kong warehouse in China next year. coming into the country.” Friday, July 4, 2014 S11 Sponsored Section in co-operation with Discovery Reports SPECIAL REPORT: JAPAN COUNTRY REPORT Nissei Build Kogyo creates Nikkato drives ceramics space-saving parking systems innovation to arking convenience and frames. It is also the only company in high-quality, company-manufactured similar markets, particularly in Thailand safety issues are steadily the country that produces turntables materials on site. This method reduces and Malaysia. It has entered into a joint rising in Asia as emerging featuring forward loading and workload and improves work safety. venture with a local Chinese company build industries economies charge to unloading capabilities for car parks, “We always aim to provide and operates a two-storey parking business and infrastructure and its facilities can service electric comprehensive support – from system for the Fudan University Rarely can a company boast of a high-quality products.” Guided by its dPevelopment. Providing valuable cars. Its vehicle lift technology is now development, manufacturing and Shanghai Cancer Center. It continues history that dates back to the philosophy of building societies space and efficiency with its regarded as a standard in tower-type construction to after-sales services,” to showcase its various tower parking advent of the industry it serves. But through industrial innovations, Nikkato automated parking systems and parking structures. says Atsuhiro Morioka, president. systems in Bangkok, Singapore, such is the case for Nikkato nurtures partnerships with prefabricated houses, Nissei Build Compared to traditional parking “Nissei Build Kogyo will dedicate Taiwan and South Korea. Corporation, one of Japan’s leading educational and national institutions. Kogyo is creating next-generation garages, automated car park systems every effort to developing our company “Our joint venture experience in manufacturers of advanced ceramics Its co-operation with the National space management solutions that add can be more cost-effective, as they to meet today’s demands for a socially Shanghai allowed us to focus more on that supports the growth of modern Industrial Research Institute of value to residential, commercial and require less building volume and less valuable enterprise.” operating parking spaces, aside from electronic industries. Nagoya developed proprietary production sites. ground area than conventional Vehicle demand in China is selling the systems,” Morioka says. Established in 1913 to support products such as Nissei has been developing facilities. From a three-car parking lot, forecast to grow 8 to 10 per cent this “We also reach out to government Japan’s industrialisation of domestic yttria-stabilised zirconia (YTZ) structure systems with proprietary Nissei is able to transform the area into year, largely driven by steady personal people and architects, offering our chemical porcelains used in ceramics. YTZ equipment and technology since its establishment in a 36-car parking space and efficiently income growth combined with falling know-how in solving parking problems. technological research fields, Nikkato grinding media have high mechanical 1961. It is the only prefabricated house manage costs and maintenance vehicle prices. As the number of cars With the high cost of land, our towers has contributed greatly to properties, high densities, high purity manufacturer in Japan that produces requirements. Its standardised increases, Nissei is enhancing its core and parking solutions can save a lot of developments in Japan’s scientific and smooth surface conditions that its own building materials, including construction method ensures a quick competencies and strengthening its floor space and improve the safety of and industrial fields. From importing result in higher wear resistance as roof panels and lightweight steel turnaround, as Nissei assembles footprint on the mainland and in other parking lots.” Atsuhiro Morioka, president chemical porcelains from Germany, well as superior grinding and Nikkato now applies its advanced dispersing efficiency for electric technology development capabilities materials, pigments, paints and to serve leading Japanese advanced materials. companies in the fields of steel and “We continue to manufacture electronic components. products with added value in Japan JPX presents vast INTAGE Group redefines As ceramic materials became while expanding our exports,” widely used in the environmental and Nishimura says. “We will go on to energy fields, Nikkato manufactured develop products that cannot be more products including wear- and easily done by other companies.” opportunities for marketing research in Asia heat-resistant ceramics used to downsize electric materials such Steering towards mobile and digital as multilayer ceramic global investors technologies in ever-drastically capacitors, dielectrics and changing and high-growth horizons in piezoelectric ceramics. The successful merger of the Tokyo accounting guidelines such as the Asia, Japanese firm INTAGE These electric materials are and Osaka stock exchanges into the International Financial Reporting HOLDINGS heads INTAGE Group, loaded in portable electronic Japan Exchange Group (JPX) last Standards and the United States consisting of more than 20 subsidiaries devices such as year established one of the world’s Generally Accepted Accounting and allied companies with nearly 2,600 smartphones. largest exchanges. The significance Principles. JPX hopes the depth of the full-time professionals throughout Asia, With the increase in of the integration, however, goes market will form a robust platform for to pave the way with innovative market electronic device customers beyond size. It created synergies that its development and allow JPX to research solutions. worldwide, the demand for could make Japan the most preferred become a centre for financing To enhance its business and Nikkato’s ceramic products also capital investment destination in Asia. activities in the region. The market has engage in further development, Japan’s increased. Pursuing further “We are very much on track with seen bond issuance offering market research leader and the world’s growth in Asia, Nikkato expectations,” says Atsushi Saito, programmes by Asian entities such as seventh-largest has been aggressively employs a long-term JPX’s group CEO. “The merger has India’s ICICI Bank, the Asian engaging in future growth initiatives. Kenji Miyakubi, president and representative director technical partnership been a triumph, and international Development Bank and Maybank. This includes a joint venture with a manufacturer in investors are realising the benefits.” Setting its sights beyond Japan, established in 2012 with NTT DOCOMO, Taiwan to remain JPX combines Tokyo Stock JPX is supporting the launch of a Japan’s largest mobile Refining its approach through years developments from Asia with its competitive. Exchange’s experience in cash equity securities exchange in Myanmar by telecommunications service operator. of innovation, INTAGE combines expertise in information services and “Nikkato has a or stock transactions and Osaka 2015. “We are opening the door all the Dubbed DOCOMO InsightMarketing, reliable and accurate syndicated data integrated systems solutions. This wider variety of Securities Exchange’s expertise in way for collaborations with our the venture fuses INTAGE’s services with customised research to allows it to offer comprehensive reliable products but derivatives trading. The integration neighbours,” Saito says. “We will comprehensive research expertise optimise marketing via proprietary coverage on local and international with a low volume,” has also significantly reduced costs gladly address any barriers they may with NTT DOCOMO’s mobile solutions that help clients maintain a market trends that can be meaningfully says Takashi as participants have to deal with only find in working with us.” communications technology to offer competitive advantage. integrated into businesses. Nishimura, president. one exchange. With the following cutting-edge marketing solutions With a strategic overseas “We believe that our resources, “We serve the mid- wind of Abenomics, such wider based on NTT DOCOMO’s nationwide presence and dedicated local teams services, technology and expertise can to high-end coverage and cost advantages have customer base. across China, India and throughout very powerfully guide our clients’ customers such as boosted equity trading value from Driven by its solid achievements Southeast Asia, INTAGE merges local business expansion in Asia and around Kyocera and TDK, Takashi Nishimura, about 1 trillion yen (HK$76 billion) in and its future-oriented initiatives, the insight and the latest mobile technology the globe,” Miyakubi says. as we provide president 2012 to about 3 trillion yen last year. company hopes to make its next leap To expand its product range, JPX forward in Asia over the next few will offer more exchange-traded funds years, as it enhances its offering and derivatives. It is also planning to in the region. develop an infrastructure fund market “As a market research-related for construction projects across Asia. business, we are committed to One of JPX’s most interesting contributing to the decision-making initiatives, however, is to promote a processes of clients,” says Kenji professionally oriented bond Miyakubi, president and representative market. It offers issuers a director. flexible regulatory “We believe in not only providing framework that allows data, but in also being responsible for for English disclosure that data and how it can be used to and the use of Atsushi Saito, expand a client’s business and foster global Group CEO sustainable growth.”

Beauty takes new shape with Maruko Confidence is currency in an era Maruko also provides after-sales where body image has increasingly service – to recommend health become a concern. Maruko is a supplements that aid the slimming veteran in trading in this business, process or to provide tips on providing shapewear for 36 years. maintaining the ideal bodyline. Fashionable women of Japan have Given the similar silhouettes of been walking with a spring in their Japanese and Chinese women, step thanks to Maruko shapewear. Maruko hopes to be as successful Regardless of age and body on the mainland as it is in its home shape, Maruko strives to make market. Laying the foundation for women feel beautiful by providing its expansion, Maruko established tools that improve body contour. a retail store in Dalian to study “We consider ourselves the market and understand its professionals of beauty,” says differences with Japan. Hidefumi Asakura, president Hidefumi Asakura, Maruko has big plans for the and CEO. “We help women president and CEO mainland, including a future flagship achieve a lifestyle of beauty.” store. Aside from opening a subsidiary Maruko uses the latest in Shanghai in charge of marketing technologies to ensure it constantly processes, Maruko also uses products, Maruko also plans to manufactures superior products, such high-quality materials such as establish a shop in Beijing. as the ones that are part of the best- leavers lace and nano-level fibre “The high-end underwear selling Carille and Belleages Avance in producing functional, light business is a niche business in Sakura lines. The company applies and comfortable shapewear. China,” Asakura says. “We see 118 sewing processes, three times the In addition to shapewear, Maruko this changing as income levels industry standard, in its shapewear offers health food supplements and rise. We are developing products such as the full cup body suits. body care cosmetics, and conducts specifically for the China market Aside from meticulous production consultations in its salon-type stores. to meet the imminent demand.”

Shirai boosts printed circuit board production in Asia

As the Asia-Pacific inches hub in China, where the electronic Shirai serves a diverse range of towards becoming the leader in the information industry is experiencing industries, including automobiles, global printed circuit board (PCB) the fastest growth and output. The consumer electronics, control industry over the next few years, Chinese market for PCBs exceeded equipment and communication Japanese PCB manufacturer Shirai HK$300 billion in 2012. devices, apart from producing Electronics Industrial anticipates “Our strategy for our Zhuhai plant multilayered, high-performance and growing consumer demand with is to streamline it further to enable it to environment-friendly PCBs. improved production facilities and produce products of higher quality in a In addition, Shirai provides fresh products. larger volume,” says Jinsho Kojima, innovative solutions in printed wiring The company is committed to president and chief operating officer. board (PWB) inspection systems. upgrading its key overseas production “We expect further growth especially Shirai’s VISPER automated visual in the automobile industry, so we are inspection system allows PWB trying to prepare ourselves for manufacturers to maintain the highest increased business opportunities to level of reliability and quality. cater to those changes.” In March this year, Shirai Established in 1970, Shirai launched a transparent and flexible produces PCBs used in a wide range PCB, which can be attached to light- of products, including flat-panel emitting diodes. It also presented a television sets, air conditioners, double-sided copper pin PCB board, computers and in-vehicle parts. The which significantly reduces heat. company has globalised Shirai hopes to introduce these manufacturing operations through products in Asia. factories across China, Japan and “Our key to success is having Southeast Asia, and scored a turnover diverse customers in different of US$229 million last year. sectors,” Kojima says. “By diversifying, we are less inclined to Jinsho Kojima, president and be impacted by the cyclic changes in chief operating officer our industry.” S12 Friday, July 4, 2014 SPECIAL REPORT: JAPAN COUNTRY REPORT Sponsored Section in co-operation with Discovery Reports Takiron’s Penta-Ocean pioneers Asian advanced plastics technologies set marine and civil engineering

n Japan, Penta-Ocean by Penta-Ocean include the Kowloon to Sai Ying Pun, and road These innovations, together with the industry standards Construction has a strong ArtScience Museum, Esplanade- works and site formation for Sha Tin company’s soil improvement image as a specialist in marine Theatres on the Bay, ION Orchard, New Town Stage II and Lok Ma Chau technologies, revolutionise land Transforming plastics into building Keeping pace with evolving and civil engineering works with The Orchard Residences, VivoCity Boundary Crossing expansion. reclamation and marine materials, industrial components and technologies in the medical industry, more than 100 years of history. and Singapore Post Centre. Penta-Ocean is working on tunnels infrastructure. medical resorbable osteosynthesis its bone fixation devices are I“Our duty is to make life better The company’s Hong Kong from Mai Po to Ngau Tam Mei for Anticipating future reclamation devices, Takiron stays resilient by biodegradable and bioresorbable, within the construction industry,” branch commenced its operations in Express Rail Link and Hin Keng projects across Asia, Penta-Ocean providing solutions inspired by the and do not require another surgical says Yasuji Kakimoto, director, senior 1986 with Sun Plaza and Ramada Station of the Sha Tin to Central Link invested in a self-propelling cutter boundless strengths and possibilities procedure for removal. The devices managing officer and chief executive Renaissance Hotel, which became for the Mass Transit Railway. suction dredger featuring the latest of plastics production. are used in orthopaedic and of Penta-Ocean’s international The Langham Hong Kong in Tsim Sha As a marine engineering pioneer, technology. Built in Singapore, the Established in 1919 as a celluloid reconstructive surgeries and the business unit. Tsui. The branch’s portfolio Penta-Ocean established the dredger was launched in June manufacturer, Takiron has treatment of cranial, oral and Penta-Ocean’s Singapore branch comprises more than 100 projects Institute of Technology, one of two this year. transformed itself into Japan’s maxillofacial fractures and has been established for almost 50 including the Next Generation Data centres in Japan equipped with 3D “We intend to make a further leading producer of miscellaneous deformities. Takiron sees an years as the city’s major land Centre, new International Mail underwater shaking table technology contribution in the future by working plastics. A pioneer in plastics flooring increased demand for bone fixation reclamation contractor. It has been Centre, the new campuses of Hong that assesses the performance of towards sustainable value,” materials, it introduced its slip- devices in Thailand and South Korea, involved in the Marina Bay, Tuas, Kong Design Institute and Lee Wai port facilities during earthquakes. Kakimoto says. “We seek to resistant vinyl flooring to the with a growing clientele in Europe Jurong Island, Pasir Panjang Lee, Aberdeen Fire Station and Penta-Ocean’s focus on research contribute to the society in Japan Japanese market in 1973 and has and China. Terminal, Punggol and Changi Airport various university teaching facilities. and development enables and overseas by providing solid, approximately 70 per cent share of Having overseas subsidiaries, Yasuji Kakimoto, director, reclamation projects. The company Its civil engineering works include innovations such as deep cement quality workmanship backed by the condominium renovation market. Takiron produces agricultural and senior managing officer extends its expertise to underground site formation for Kai Tak Cruise mixing vessels, self-propelled advanced technologies with a high Protecting the environment is horticultural materials in Indonesia and chief executive of utilities, transport networks and high- Terminal, the Laying of Western multipurpose work vessels and regard for safety and ecological second nature to the company. “In and manufactures sheet roofing international business unit rise buildings. Construction marvels Cross Harbour Main from West dredgers with special features. considerations.” planning and designing our products, materials in Shanghai. It looks into we also assess how we can promote growth markets in China for roofing a low-carbon society,” says panels used in large-scale barns and president Katsumori Hyodo. residential carports. For its environmental efforts, To strengthen its presence in Takiron offers products with heat- China, it established Takiron Plastics Three companies forge union insulating properties that optimise (Changzhou) in March this year to natural light. It also provides large- produce polycarbonate building sized, joint-type system panels for materials. to serve international market energy-saving initiatives of factories Guided by the Japanese principle and warehouses. chisan-chisho, Takiron seeks to Takiron is a reliable partner for expand its offerings in Asia by Three companies have come the hi-tech sector. Its industrial manufacturing locally made products together to prove that there is Not everyone has the capacity to go plastics products include static for local consumption. “We want to strength in numbers. Under the IJT dissipative materials and FM fire provide our regional customers with Technology (IJTT) umbrella, casting abroad because of a number of safety materials used in ultra-clean the best of the best technology,” expert I Metal Technology, propeller constraints. Our strategy is to support environments. Hyodo says. shaft specialist Jidosha Buhin Kogyo (JBK) and forging authority TDF our clients wherever they go Corporation join forces to maximise Yukitomo Hirakawa, president Yasuaki Shimizu their resources in strategically President and representative director, IJT Technology expanding their business scope outside Japan. Mitsui Miike Harnessing the synergy of the IJTT serves Isuzu, Hino, Hitachi, constraints,” Shimizu says. “Our three companies, IJTT provides an Sumitomo and Komatsu. strategy is to support our clients Machinery extensive array of parts for “These companies trust us wherever they go.” commercial vehicles. because we share a common As companies place greater seeks industry “It makes sense for the three philosophy for quality and importance on environmental companies to get together and sturdiness,” Shimizu says. sustainability, IJTT pushes the partnerships leverage each other’s strengths,” heads, brackets and valve controls. Primarily catering to Japanese envelope in research and says Yasuaki Shimizu, president and JBK, on the other hand, concentrates companies, IJTT aims to leverage its development to create sturdy yet in Asia representative director. “It makes on propellers, engine parts and axle manufacturing facilities in Thailand lightweight materials that promote production more efficient. IJTT as parts. TDF forges front axle, knuckle and Indonesia to help cater to more fuel efficiency. In providing state-of- Fuelled by massive investments in one entity can serve the overseas and transmission parts. Asian clients. IJTT also works in the-art and environmentally friendly construction and infrastructure market better than if we do it Vertical integration allows IJTT to tandem with its customers to products, Tokyo Stock Exchange- projects, Asia-Pacific continues to separately.” target a wider variety of clients that establish an international listed IJTT increases its corporate dominate the global mining equipment I Metal Technology manufactures produce commercial vehicles for market presence. value to stimulate investment interest market, and Japanese expert Mitsui motor vehicle and construction different applications such as “Not everyone has the capacity and encourage investors to work Miike Machinery leads the way in Katsumori Hyodo, president equipment parts such as cylinder construction and agriculture. to go abroad because of a number of with the company. cross-sectoral partnerships and growth opportunities. Mitsui Miike Machinery is Japan’s first producer of coal mining equipment and machinery dating back Tsurumi Manufacturing to 1882. With more than 130 years of pioneering experience in the materials handling industry, the company has a setting its sights on long and resilient history as an industry leader. It continues its efforts to innovate products and services amid Asian markets changing industry demand. “We call ourselves a solution Rising infrastructural investments and maker for different types of sectors,” rapid urbanisation in developing says Yukitomo Hirakawa, president. economies present vast opportunities “The beauty of our company is that we for companies to capitalise on have always tried to provide the diversified new ventures. machinery and equipment needed at a Paving the way for cross- certain time because we are able to infrastructural ventures is adjust and adapt to changes.” Japanese industry leader Tsurumi Mitsui Miike Machinery prides Manufacturing. The company itself in being more than a offers packaged solutions in manufacturer of industry equipment, submersible pumps, dehydrators but a provider of total planning and and vacuum pumps across various processing systems. industry projects ranging from Osamu Tsujimoto, president “There’s a linked or consecutive sewage treatment to nuclear chain of process that we go through to power generation. make sure that we don’t simply create The company has more than 90 local parts and materials to sustain a a machine that will solve one single years of expertise in pump competitive edge in China. While still problem for our clients, but to be able technologies and is the leading maintaining quality control standards, to help them plan the whole process,” manufacturer of submersible pumps in these efforts have led to a 30 per cent Hirakawa says. Japan. A key to this success is the cost reduction. Looking to leverage investments in research and Tsurumi Manufacturing has complementary technological development to enhance product subsidiaries in Hong Kong, Taiwan, expertise, Mitsui Miike Machinery is durability, competitiveness and South Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, interested in forming partnerships energy effectiveness. Singapore and Indonesia, and also across Asia while also increasing “We try to improve our quality covers the United States and Canada. business network connections through and long-lasting systems,” says Through its subsidiary in Dusseldorf, local trade and international channels. Osamu Tsujimoto, president. Germany, the company conducts Through its combined expertise in “For example, our clients used to work sales in about 30 European countries. materials handling, technologies in with pumps from European Tsurumi Manufacturing rigorously digging and transferring goods and companies. But once they try our selects materials and modifies its capabilities in reducers and motors, pumps, they tend to change to ours products to comply with regional Mitsui Miike Machinery is confident in because of the reliability.” regulations. It has sold more than 1,000 meeting industry demand while also A growing presence across 45 dehydrators in Japan and is looking to contributing to society. countries in industries spanning introduce them in Thailand, Indonesia “We want to create local demand, construction, mining, agriculture, and Malaysia. local business, and I think it’s farming and engineering reflects “The Asian market is growing so absolutely critical that we have a local Tsurumi Manufacturing’s adaptation to fast, and we have to focus on it,” partner in the target country to work local market needs. The company has Tsujimoto says. “We have a together with,” Hirakawa says. established its second factory in broad network and are open to “That will be a win-win situation for Shanghai and has been purchasing more partnerships.” both our countries.”

HCI celebrates 100 years of innovation in fine chemicals

As the company that create a brighter future Aside from modifying chemicals established Japan’s first for the company and and resins, HCI also supports clients in benzene distillation plant our clients.” their overseas expansion plans. HCI in 1914, Honshu Chemical HCI utilises original ensures continuous supply for clients Industry (HCI) is manufacturing wherever they establish operations. renowned in the country technologies to produce For instance, HCI provides vitamin E as a pioneering fine biphenol, photoresist raw materials for a company that chemical specialist. A materials, special supplies poultry and swine feed hundred years later, bisphenol and vitamin E additives to China and Europe. combining its innovative raw materials. The “We supply the materials from spirit with a strong Yoshiyuki Funakoshi, company employs Japan, but we are open to research and president and CEO stringent manufacturing constructing manufacturing bases in development drive, HCI is standards to ensure the regions where there is an increased still at the forefront in purity, stability and safety demand,” Funakoshi says. providing high-quality products across of chemicals and resins. Employing Through subsidiary company industrial sectors. environmentally friendly manufacturing Hi-Bis, HCI established a HCI’s history is marked with many processes, HCI ensures a sustainable manufacturing facility in Germany as a breakthroughs, as it is also the first future for itself and for its clients. local production base of special company to succeed in industrialising Working with companies from bisphenol in Europe for clients such as aniline, a benzene derivative in Japan. the information technology, Bayer. To reinforce HCI’s strategy of “Being innovative is at the automotive, medical and other various establishing a global scope, the core of our company philosophy,” sectors, HCI can tailor its products company is continuously seeking says Yoshiyuki Funakoshi, president according to client specifications for talents with advanced knowledge in and CEO. “We will continue to various applications. the fine chemical industry. Friday, July 4, 2014 S13 Sponsored Section in co-operation with Discovery Reports SPECIAL REPORT: JAPAN COUNTRY REPORT UniCarriers achieves Hakudo brings non-ferrous lustre to Asian markets synergies with integration Looking beyond Japan to bring its their computer systems to handle the years of expertise in the non-ferrous enormous volume of orders. metals and materials industry to the Focused on further expanding into hen Nissan Forklift which made Japan’s first forklift battery life. For its non-electric lines, it rest of Asia, Hakudo is reinforcing its Asia, Hakudo is negotiating with and TCM merged to in 1949. is working on an affordable exhaust- commitment to customer satisfaction potential agents in Taiwan and South form UniCarriers, While its R&D centre is global, limiting technology to be launched by investing in human resources and Korea to supply the markets with eco- they combined more technology is further tailored to the next year. information technology. friendly and high-precision materials. than 120 years of specific needs of its local markets in “We have big expectations for “Our people are our main asset,” These products include its high- Wexperience in forklift and materials Europe, the Americas and Asia. China, and I think we have a very says president Koji Tsunoda, who precision YH52 cutting plate, a grade handling equipment. The distinct white This highly localised strategy runs good chance to grow in that market,” considers their free-thinking and of aluminium plate with various colour of its machines reflects more across all operations from product Omori says. flexible approach as the source of thickness tolerances that is than a simple change in appearance. design and procurement to overall The company has a manufacturing Hakudo’s originality. “We also invest considered the highest-quality plate in UniCarriers’ renewed take on management and marketing. Such an facility in China and plans to expand a lot in computer systems because the world. YH52 is mainly used for technology and operational efficiency approach has benefited clients in operations by inviting collaborations we handle around 4,000 stock items components and base plates of has set it apart from the competition. many ways, such as cutting lead times with direct dealers and distributors. and 13,000 customers.” precision machines, manufacturing “We’ve surprised the industry by by as much as a year. Similar to its growth strategy The leading provider of aluminium, Koji Tsunoda, president equipment for semiconductors, parts completing our integration in just “This is one important change the elsewhere, UniCarriers will focus steel, copper, plastics and proprietary for food production facilities and a year, faster than the usual three Satoru Omori, chairman merger has introduced into on mergers and acquisitions of products in Japan for more than 80 clamp devices. years for a company our size,” and CEO UniCarriers,” Omori says. “We’ve companies that have the years, Hakudo has built a reputation of orders by working closely with its Hakudo’s Asian push includes says Satoru Omori, chairman and become very close to the local appropriate technologies or for meeting customers’ needs quickly, subsidiary in Shanghai and local potential partnerships in the CEO of UniCarriers. “Our clients will markets that we’re able to produce manufacturing capabilities. efficiently and with minimum wastage. distributors in Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines and India. “Our annual gain from the immense synergies focus on, among other things, system products that match precisely what “We’re increasing our market It is making strides in the aerospace Malaysia and Vietnam. sales reach US$250 million, but we’ve achieved.” software technology for remote- each country requires.” presence worldwide and will establish industry, apart from serving “We don’t just provide our we still want to increase our revenues A major outcome of the controlled equipment to promote a UniCarriers, for example, has lined local factories and facilities whenever automotive, consumer electronics partners with the materials, we also in Asia, develop our agents in the collaboration will be the establishment safer workplace. Overall, UniCarriers up several “green” offerings for necessary,” Omori says. “Our ultimate and other sectors. help support their activities,” Tsunoda region and find new countries to of a global research and development will harness Nissan Forklift’s frontier markets such as China. The company goal is to become No 1 globally.” Hakudo ensures seamless delivery says. This support includes developing approach,” Tsunoda says. (R&D) centre in Kawasaki. The technologies while drawing on the is developing more reasonably priced US$60-million, seven-storey facility will expertise of TCM of the Hitachi Group, electric forklifts featuring longer Ya-Man brings professional beauty equipment to more homes throughout Asia Incorporating two of Japan’s design engineers create external strongest qualities – a meticulous eye hardware, and software engineers for aesthetics and a persistent focus on operability. These teams passion for technology – Ya-Man is work with medical practitioners to ramping up its beauty and health apply the latest technologies used in product line to enhance Asia’s facial treatments and cosmetic goods. personal care industry. The company Its latest product, Platinum White combines its 35 years of experience in RF, uses radio frequency technology supplying professional beauty devices to offer various facial treatment with its expert knowledge of modes such as cleansing, cosmetics, bringing advanced moisturising and firming. Customers electronic beauty equipment and can test the device at Ya-Man’s booth professional health care products to inside Beauty Avenue and at major Asian homes. electronic stores in Hong Kong, where Starting as a professional device it was launched in April. manufacturer and supplier to beauty “Most women use some kind of salons in the 1970s, Ya-Man lotion, gel or cream as a cosmetic, but refashioned its business when home- Kimiyo Yamazaki, president they rarely complement it with a use devices were introduced to the device to help the creams penetrate Japanese market in early 2000. It the skin,” Yamazaki says. “Our goal is created personal beauty appliances aesthetics is complemented by our to see our devices become a standard and patented the fundamental body- technological expertise. We know in people’s daily skin-care activity.” fat measurement technologies found what customers look for.” Supported by a distribution in many modern devices today. Ya-Man’s specialist industry status partnership with Jebsen in Hong “We have been working with is a result of its highly skilled in-house Kong, Ya-Man seeks more beauty salons for a long time,” says research and development group, collaborations to create and bring Kimiyo Yamazaki, president. “Our composed of three teams. Electronic revolutionary beauty products to knowledge of cosmetics and engineers build internal components, markets in Southeast Asia.

Innotech evolves to become global EDS solutions company Innotech Corporation is building on its Japan and overseas, Innotech has early success as a semiconductor unveiled in-house-developed products trading firm to become a globally and proprietary services. Its renowned electronics design services ultra-small-footprint CPU boards are (EDS) company. With an outstanding suited for applications where big data reputation and expertise in cutting- support and higher speed are edge electronic design automation prerequisites. These internally (EDA) solutions, Innotech has been a developed boards are intended for silent champion behind many leading the medical, industrial, semiconductor and electronics communication, automotive and manufacturers in Japan. The company surveillance sectors. To enrich its has built a highly competitive portfolio portfolio, Innotech has launched as a result of its strong partnerships smartphone-related services based with some of the top producers of on audio watermark technology. high-end semiconductor devices, EDA Toshihiko Ono, president and Innotech has introduced two types software and electronic components chief operating officer of semiconductor testers that were in North America, Europe and Asia. jointly developed with consolidated “Innotech is committed to become subsidiary Regulus and Taiwan’s a total solutions provider, leveraging its covering EDA software, application- STAr Technologies. As part of the technical expertise and resources to specific integrated circuit design and company’s expansion strategy, become indispensable in the further central processing unit (CPU) board Innotech acquired a stake in development of the electronics design and manufacturing services. long-time partner STAr Technologies industry,” says Toshihiko Ono, The company has also developed a and opened a new office in Taipei president and chief operating officer. reputation for delivering high- in April last year. “We closely collaborate with our performance test systems and value- “Our recent investments are customers, becoming their trusted added engineering services. Its geared towards strengthening our solutions provider.” solutions can be found in everyday overseas presence, especially Together with its group products, including smartphones, in the growing markets of the companies, Innotech offers a laptop computers and arcade games. mainland, Hong Kong, Taiwan comprehensive EDS portfolio, To penetrate more markets in and South Korea,” Ono says.

Manac’s functional chemicals bolster Asia’s technological industries

As sales and production destinations president. “We are confident to for electronic and pharmaceutical continue our business owing to these materials shift to China and other systems. We go through an audit Asian nations, Manac is boosting its every year to maintain global technological capabilities to maintain quality standards.” its leading position as a chemical Keen on developing innovative specialist. Rooted in seawater techniques and creating new business chemistry and originating from the avenues, Manac has acquired Hakko Seto Inland Sea, Manac technologies Tsusho, a Japanese firm that operates are evolving and spreading from a factory in Nanjing. The acquisition is Fukuyama to the international arena. a strategic move to better support the Leveraging its 60-year experience company’s clients on the mainland and in bromination and iodination Asia. Furthermore, Manac plans to technologies, Manac has acquire a production base in China. accumulated numerous techniques “We continue to look for potential and has been able to enter various collaborations with pharmaceutical fields such as flame retardant, health Shoji Suginohara, president and electronic companies to develop support and fine chemicals. more high-valued compounds and Customers have highly rated the explore other business fields,” company’s products and services pharmaceutical companies. It invests Suginohara says. “As a company that consistently throughout its decades heavily in human resources, including serves niche sectors, it’s easy to of operations. research and development sections, continue our core business of Aside from producing fine to maintain its ISO 9001/14000 and GMP producing materials for advanced chemicals used in the functional and management systems. markets, but creating a final product electronic material fields, Manac also “Environment and quality takes a long time. So, we would like to supports new drug development, management systems are important work with partners to create more supplying raw materials to partner for us,” says Shoji Suginohara, innovative products.” S14 Friday, July 4, 2014 SPECIAL REPORT: JAPAN COUNTRY REPORT Sponsored Section in co-operation with Discovery Reports NOMURA delights Okamoto Industries looks to customers with space creation further penetrate Asian market t about 7.2 billion people, condoms. This variety outperforms integrated global producer of rubber overall sales, condoms, however, the world’s population its rubber counterpart in terms of and plastic products. remain Okamoto Industries’ core and revitalisation has doubled since 1970 softness and thinness. For people “We own leading technologies offering. Helping governments and is expected to allergic to latex, Okamoto Industries in various sectors ranging from worldwide promote the The challenge of infusing energy of new products and markets. exceed 8 billion by 2025. came up with a special line of rubber and plastics, to latex,” contraceptive method, and vibrancy into an empty Whether it is expressing a corporate Amid dwindling natural resources, polyurethane condoms. Its 0.02 Okamoto says. “By combining our Okamoto Industries has donated space has driven NOMURA’s philosophy or conveying a specific governments face the challenge of Hydro Polyurethane brand is one of expertise across these industries, US$1 million to Ghana and employees for more than a century. message, NOMURA has delighted controlling the global headcount the thinnest polyurethane condoms we are able to produce a wide array contributed to campaigns in Through the imagination of and earned the trust of top from growing by about 9,000 people in the world featuring an even of products.” countries such as India. NOMURA’s design professionals, an corporations and organisations. per hour. Okamoto Industries 0.02mm thickness across the whole With three production facilities in To further broaden its market austere venue transforms into a Commissioned to execute the award- supports this campaign through its surface area. Japan, two subsidiaries on the reach in China and Southeast Asia, setting that is steeped in meaning, winning W Guangzhou FEI, it is also distinct line of quality condoms. To ensure safety and quality, mainland and one each in Hong especially in Thailand, Vietnam and delight and emotion. responsible for fashioning numerous “We always strive to be a step Okamoto Industries complies strictly Kong, Thailand, Vietnam and the Indonesia, Okamoto Industries shops, hotels, offices and museums ahead of the competition as part of with global standards. These include United States, Okamoto Industries welcomes partnerships with local in Japan, China, Singapore and our commitment to provide regulations imposed by the United produces thousands of other distributors. across other parts of Asia. consumers with a healthy, States Food and Drug Administration Yoshiyuki Okamoto, president consumer and industrial items. “We would like to promote the Our vision is to “We always try to deliver beyond comfortable and enjoyable lifestyle,” and the Conformité Européenne of These products range from heating Okamoto brand across Asia and make sure the what our customers expect,” says Yoshiyuki Okamoto, president of the European Economic Area. The pads, gloves and dehumidifiers, to beyond,” Okamoto says. “We want Watanabe says. “We’ve evolved Okamoto Industries. company is also open to regular consumers as a condom vehicle seat covers, wallpaper, people to associate our name with Japanese over the years, and our curiosity has Indeed, the company was the client audits. manufacturer, Okamoto Industries adhesive tapes and sneakers. excellent product quality and led us to discover new concepts that first in the market to produce latex Although known by most has grown to become a leading Accounting for 8 per cent of dependability.” standard of develop businesses and make things creation is happen for our customers.” Expanding its overseas intrinsic in operations worth 3.5 billion yen the world (HK$268 million) to hit 10 billion yen in Niche PCB solutions keep six years, NOMURA is nurturing local Kyuhen aims to empower Masaru Watanabe employees and partnering with high- President, NOMURA quality suppliers and contractors, Kyoden on growth path particularly from China and energy-conscious Asia Southeast Asia. Operating within the highly “We possess the spirit of “We have so much potential fragmented and competitive printed creation and manufacturing,” says abroad because Japanese quality The invention of electrical circuit board (PCB) industry, Masaru Watanabe, president. “We has that potential,” Watanabe says. transformers in the 19th century paved The strength of our Japanese home-grown company create the functional aspects and the “Our vision is to make sure the the way for more efficient, farther- company is the Kyoden has gained traction in the total look. We care about the impact Japanese standard of creation is reaching and less-expensive power marketplace by moving away from our spaces create.” intrinsic in the world.” transmission, distribution and quality of our broad-based, generic offerings NOMURA pioneered the concept consumption. Nearly 200 years later, towards more innovative, specialised of the display industry in 1892. Since transformers – and the innovators technologies – a solutions. With more than 30 years’ its beginnings as a stage and theatre behind them – are facing new crucial aspect of experience in PCB prototyping and production designer, NOMURA has challenges amid dwindling energy production, the company has built a gathered various audiences for its sources and mounting demand. which is research sustainable track record anchored clients through its targeted and “Sustainability is the key, and it on higher standards of quality, awe-inspiring set-ups. From can only be achieved by constantly and development rapid-turnaround manufacturing, conceptualisation and design to innovating to increase energy Hiroshi Hanada and fulfilment of small-volume construction, NOMURA showcases efficiency and supporting alternative President, Kyuhen production runs. its unmatched display skills through sources such as solar power,” says “Rapid-turnaround manufacture Kaneki Yamaguchi, president its corporate publicity spaces, Hiroshi Hanada, president of Kyuhen, develops products and technologies The company’s innovative and small-batch production have showrooms, exhibition booths the first and only electrical compatible with next-generation breakthroughs include anticorrosive become our core competencies,” and various cultural and transformer manufacturer on Japan’s smart grids to support more reliable oil-immersed transformers, which says president Kaneki Yamaguchi. needs for state-of-the-art PCB academic projects in Japan and Kyushu island since 1959. Kyuhen and sustainable power production eliminate power loss while “We are an established name production, Kyoden is becoming a abroad. remains at the forefront of energy- and distribution. Exploring advanced withstanding extreme weather in this niche in Japan. We seek prominent third-party provider of Guided by the challenging related innovations, with its solar applications, it has launched conditions for up to 30 years. Other to achieve the same in Asia, product research and development spirit ingrained in the transformers and voltage regulators solar parking systems ideal for office, breakthroughs include static voltage particularly in China.” to leading Japanese manufacturers company’s DNA, NOMURA ensuring stable electricity supply from residential and other properties. concentrators designed to Recognising that China and Asia operating in China. This is a natural continues to innovate, power plants and substations to “The strength of our company is meticulously control the voltage levels are central to the continued growth extension of Kyoden’s services, as creating spaces that factories and residential communities. the quality of our technologies – a of solar power, which tends to cause of the PCB industry, Kyoden is many of its clients have to introduce mesmerise and generating Kyuhen’s portfolio now includes crucial aspect of which is research fluctuations and disruptions during drawing on the strengths of group new products within a relatively ideas that influence the siring CO2-based heat pump water heaters, and development,” Hanada says. “We transmission to the grid. With these member companies and key short period to cope with rapidly top-runner energy-saving always deliver high-quality products innovations, Kyuhen aims to soon business affiliates on the mainland, changing technology and customer Masaru Watanabe, transformers and other eco-friendly and technologies while keeping corner the increasingly energy- Hong Kong and South Korea to bring requirements. Kyoden has also president equipment. The company also friendly relations with our customers.” conscious Asian market. its rapid manufacturing expertise to ventured into the supply of industrial “We look forward to extending our the region. Through Kyoden materials such as glass fibres, knowledge sharing overseas and (Thailand), Kyoden is directly mixture materials and refractory collaborating with industry leaders, catering to the flourishing car products, already earning the trust utility providers and other electronics segment, which is of a number of electronic majors. transformer manufacturers,” becoming a significant source of “We are a total solution partner Hanada says. “We also welcome revenue for PCBs. “We are keen on to our clients,” Yamaguchi says. “We consultation with interested forming more strategic partnerships can customise an optimal, beginning- companies and government bodies in Asia to be able to offer a seamless to-end service, allowing our wishing to benefit from Kyuhen’s PCB service,” Yamaguchi says. customers to reduce their cost technologies and products.” In addition to meeting clients’ structure and time-to-market.”

Yuki Gosei offers premium fine chemicals Japan, the world’s second-largest One of the world’s largest pharmaceutical market, is also home producers of glycine and beta- to one of the most innovative and alanine, YGK also manufactures experienced active pharmaceutical special APIs such as protamine ingredient (API) producers. For sulphate for insulin formulations and almost seven decades, Yuki Gosei isoniazid, a prescription drug for Kogyo (YGK) has made a solid tuberculosis. The company contribution to various sectors such conforms to the standards of as pharmaceuticals, dietary Current Good Manufacturing supplements, food additives and Practices imposed by the US Food industrial chemicals such as marine and Drug Administration. paints, tyres and semiconductors. As YGK challenges global YGK has always provided safe markets with its centre pillar and high-quality products Kazuo Itoh, president products glycine and beta-alanine, through the most advanced together with a special line of APIs research and development and amino acids, it is working technologies and expertise. Laboratory earnestly undertake domestically on APIs for generic “YGK has been a technology- prospective themes of study. Also, its drugs and fresh applications for oriented company from the very Joban Factory in Iwaki city is existing products such as beginning,” says Kazuo Itoh, developing production processes for silicon-based compounds and president of YGK. “We’ve always various chemical compounds using pyridine derivatives. built core process chemistries to state-of-the-art technologies. “We’re always ready to secure the long-term stable supply of Such innovative spirit has partner globally for product sales, the safest and highest-quality helped YGK survive the backlash of raw material procurement and products, which must earn the 2011Japan earthquake. Owing to on-site production if beneficial for customers’ trust and confidence.” new product lines and cost both parties,” Itoh says. “A win-win YGK’s overall product portfolio is management, the company has relationship with anyone based set to expand as researchers at the overcome severe global competition on trust and confidence is one of company’s Tokyo Research and rapid technological changes. our values.”

Shofu creates proven products for better dentistry

Dental treatment in Asia is shifting with eight preset dental shooting from a purely curative to a more modes. It features an intuitive 8.9cm elective approach due to increased LCD touch screen and Shofu’s consumer affluence and improved proprietary FlashMatic System that oral health awareness. To meet the neutralises ambient light for region’s growing demand for dental consistent image results. consumables, Shofu stays ahead Shofu’s products are sold globally with advanced techniques and in more than 100 countries through technologies. overseas subsidiaries in the United Celebrating 92 years of States, Germany, Britain, Singapore innovation, Shofu is world-renowned and China. It works closely with its for its advanced dental technologies Singapore and Shanghai offices to and superior clinical and lab strengthen its regional foothold. “We products such as ceramic Noriyuki Negoro, president localise our products by systems, abrasives, polishers and incorporating feedback from our restorative materials. overseas subsidiaries,” Negoro says. “Our artificial teeth products are reacted glass (S-PRG) ionomer filler “China is the fastest-growing dental popular in Asia, especially Endura, particles. S-PRG technology market, and its higher requirement Japan’s first hybrid hard-resin teeth,” promotes anticariogenic and for quality lifestyle generates a huge says president Noriyuki Negoro. “We antiplaque effects, and releases and demand for dental care.” carefully analysed the Japanese recharges fluoride for Leading up to its centennial teeth structure to create a natural- remineralisation. Shofu’s GIOMER- anniversary, Shofu pursues to looking form that suits the Asian based products include Beautifil II, a expand its business in Asia by teeth. This demonstrates our light-cured direct aesthetic creating groundbreaking products dedication to research and composite resin, and BeautiSealant, and partnering with local distributors. development to meet market needs.” a pit and fissure sealant system. “We uphold our commitment to oral Shofu successfully developed Another revolutionary device is health care through our innovations GIOMER, a group of bioactive Shofu’s EyeSpecial C-II, a lightweight and excellent customer service,” materials containing surface pre- and durable digital dental camera Negoro says. Friday, July 4, 2014 S15 Sponsored Section in co-operation with Discovery Reports SPECIAL REPORT: JAPAN COUNTRY REPORT Senshu Electric cables Nippon Resibon’s inventions revolutionise tie legacy with ingenuity grinding wheel industry ebuilding Japan after the cables for their state-of-the-art customers in Asia, it has launched Drawing on its wealth of knowledge between speed and strength to many other innovations. The second world war called industrial robots and automated comprehensive online product and experience, Japan’s No 1 ensure customer satisfaction.” company’s Super Series line, for for the solidarity of various machines. Senshu is also dedicated catalogues in Japanese, Chinese abrasive grinding wheel On the ground floor of its Osaka example, has raised the abrasion and industries. Cable supplier to assembly work and innovation and English. manufacturer, Nippon Resibon, has headquarters, a disc framed on the grinding performance of conventional Senshu Electric, among based on clients’ specifications. In response to the growing changed the way industries cut, grind wall encapsulates one of Nippon tools about threefold. Rother new-age pioneers, led the “Demonstrating Senshu’s demand for alternative energy and polish metals and concrete. Resibon’s legacies. Invented by the Such products have helped the charge towards the reconstruction of ingenuity, our robot cables have been sources, Senshu is also developing “Innovation sets us apart from the company in the 1960s, Best Touch is company capture more than half of the country’s power infrastructure – diversified to make more than 10,000 specialised eco-friendly products competition,” says Koichi Imadate, the world’s first flexible abrasive the Asian market for expendable which, in turn, revitalised products,” Nishimura says. such as cables optimised for chairman of Nippon Resibon. “We’ve grinding wheel. The innovation was grinding wheels. With three households, business centres and “Their applications are still charging and transmitting solar engineered the perfect balance the company’s answer to requests production facilities in Thailand, factories to become among the growing, and we look forward to power. from shop workers and clients for a Nippon Resibon is set to capture the world’s most technologically developing even more to satisfy “The next frontier is offering bendable grinding wheel. Because of growing demand worldwide for its advanced. evolving client requirements.” products beyond cables and its flexibility, Best Touch delivers more products, especially from Asia, which From trading mainly power The robot cables are projected to boosting overseas sales from grinding surface upon contact for is undergoing robust infrastructure cables, Senshu has expanded to gain broader use overseas, 5 per cent to 30 per cent of total faster job completion. Flexibility also development. The company started serving nearly all industries, from Motohide Nishimura, particularly in China, where rising revenues by 2020,” Nishimura says. enables a closer fit between the exporting from Thailand 26 years ago electricals and automotives to managing director labour costs are driving “We owe it to our shareholders, grinding wheel and the metal or and has plans of expanding capacity information and communication manufacturers to invest more heavily clients and employees to continue concrete for a smoother finish, to meet increased demand. technologies. It works closely with in automation. Senshu is looking to pursuing excellence and a bigger while less vibration minimises “We’re raising economies of about 250 of Japan’s 400 cable “We are committed to continuing expand its presence in the region in presence – by building additional operator fatigue. scale to further share Japanese manufacturers and supplies more this legacy, with a philosophy addition to its factory in Suzhou offices, forging deeper relationships Nippon Resibon is also behind technology and our culture of quality than 3,500 clients globally. anchored in just-in-time strategy and and offices in Shanghai, Tianjin and adding more value through and safety with the developing “Senshu has grown in parallel – value-added original products.” and Shenzhen. greater innovations.” Koichi Imadate, chairman world,” Imadate says. and in collaboration – with many About 20 per cent of the business Senshu is also eyeing a wider industries including the distinguished is based on original products, market in Malaysia, Indonesia and Japanese automotive sector,” says including Senshu’s robot cables Thailand, where it initially ventured in managing director Motohide developed since the early 1980s in 1998 to support clients that have set Nishimura, whose father established partnership with manufacturers, up factories in the area. Reinforcing the company in 1949. which needed sturdier, more flexible its commitment to its growing YMFG grows banking and financial services across Asia

With China holding a commanding Japan to provide yuan-denominated position in global trade, the majority loans in China,” says president of the world’s economic growth Koichi Fukuda. takes place in Asia. Besides China, The second-leading regional Japanese companies are looking lender in Hiroshima, Momiji Bank to establish operations across focuses on retail banking, while booming Southeast Asian markets – Kitakyushu Bank, YMFG’s third bank a strategy termed “China Plus One”. brand, serves northern Kyushu. Having strategic alliances with To bolster its regional operations, top-notch Asian financial institutions, YMFG has forged alliances with Yamaguchi Financial Group (YMFG) major Asian banks, including Bank maintains a strong footing to Negara Indonesia, TMB Bank of provide business support Thailand and Metropolitan Bank services in the region. and Trust of the Philippines. Headquartered in Shimonoseki, To support the dollar- YMFG is the largest regional financial denominated investments and loans group in the Chugoku and Shikoku Koichi Fukuda, president of its banking subsidiaries, YMFG areas, with a net income of issued convertible bonds amounting 31.2 billion yen (HK$2.4 billion) last to US$300 million last year, with year. The group was rated A with a Inaugurated as Hyakuju National a five-year maturity and zero stable outlook, while two of its three Bank in 1878, Yamaguchi Bank was interest rates. bank brands – Yamaguchi Bank and the first local bank to venture YMFG seeks to strengthen its Momiji Bank – received an A+ overseas 41 years ago. Its first Asian Asian base through alliances with (stable) rating from Rating and branch was in Busan, South Korea, local banks and financial institutions. Investment Information. Besides followed by two branches in “Having the right connections offering a diverse range of services, Qingdao and Dalian on the mainland, allows us to help our clients capture YMFG also has consulting, securities and a representative office in Hong more of the demand in the region,” and credit card subsidiaries. Kong. “We are one of a few banks in Fukuda says. Techno Smart intensifies marketing in Southeast Asia and China

Amid economic movements and Techno Smart expects to carve a political events worldwide that have niche in the upcoming shift to fuel impacted Japanese industry, Techno cell cars, the next generation of eco- Smart will fully implement the global friendly vehicles. Its high-precision integration of its sales, purchasing, coating machines are used on outsourcing and design businesses lithium-ion battery electrodes, this year. The move entails separators and fuel cells. strengthened marketing efforts in Partnerships with local service Southeast Asia and China. providers will strengthen Techno “We intend to implement a policy Smart’s after-sales service capacity of thinking one step ahead of in China. Since 2011, it has tapped customers and facilities, which has Chinese manufacturers for direct something in common with the word sales of coating to hard-coat films omotenashi, or hospitality,” says for touch panels and polarising president Susumu Takahashi. plates for LCDs. The company brings more than a With increasing business taking century of expertise in machinery Susumu Takahashi, president place in China, the company is precision into its Asian expansion. working on a new technological The successor of Inoue Kinzoku development based on market Kogyo or INOKIN, which charted an sound coaters and dryers, Techno trends. It is also improving product unmistakably global path on its Smart is making an impact on the maintenance systems and centenary in 2012 with the evolution of consumer electronics expanding sales in the touch panel rebranding, Techno Smart is more such as smartphones and tablet and polarising plate industries. accessible to overseas customers. computers. Its advanced equipment “We would like to help more This should bring collaboration for liquid crystal display (LCD) global customers bring cutting-edge closer to the levels reached with polariser films are used to devices, which are well thought Japanese customers that enabled manufacture high-end touch panels out, to life based on our high- technological distinction. and LCD monitors in the optical precision coating technology,” Specialising in environmentally film industry. Takahashi says. Kadoya premium sesame oil to flavour regional cuisine

Used as cooking oil, salad dressing, anti-ageing cosmetics. Dietary dip, sauce and flavour enhancer, supplements containing sesamine, a sesame oil is indispensable to compound found in sesame oil, are Japanese cooking. For more than 150 also among Kadoya’s extended years, the Japanese have trusted product range. Kadoya Sesame Mills for its premium Kadoya is keen on exploring quality sesame oil products. additional markets in Southeast Asia “For the Japanese, ‘Kadoya’ and in its drive to increase its exports the special shape of our bottle are from 10 per cent of its total production synonymous with sesame oil,” says to 30 per cent. The company Jiro Ozawa, president and CEO. particularly looks to countries such Over the years, Kadoya has as Indonesia as part of its plans to stirred up awareness of sesame oil enter the halal market, which favours as a key cooking ingredient, with Jiro Ozawa, the use of tahini or sesame paste. knowledge gained from the president and CEO Kadoya is open to meeting potential company’s information and distributors to help introduce its demonstration campaigns being sesame oil products into Thailand, passed on from generation to sesame oil that promote healthier Malaysia, Myanmar and the generation. Kadoya’s continuing hair, skin and bones. Kadoya Philippines. efforts to educate the public include collaborates with customers in the “The demand for sesame oil is programmes that teach elementary industrial food sector to develop growing and a lot more products are school children how to cook and eat fresh products and applications for using it,” Ozawa says. “We keep on with sesame oil. its high-grade sesame oil. These developing new products and we are The company has been studying applications include the use of happy to share our products with the potential nutritional benefits of sesame oil’s antioxidant properties in those countries.” S16 Friday, July 4, 2014 SPECIAL REPORT: JAPAN COUNTRY REPORT Sponsored section in co-operation with Discovery Reports Virtue in moderation ensures Aso’s longevity

hen Kyushu squire Takichi Aso started a mining business in 1872, little did he know that his mWodest coal venture would grow into one of Japan’s most respected conglomerates. The enterprise that eventually became Aso Group diversified in the late 1900s into industries spanning banking, education, medical care and infrastructure, enabling it to play an integral role in the social and economic development of Kyushu, Japan’s third-largest island. Beginning its overseas push five years ago with investments in property and corporate bonds, the group has since built a solid footing in eight countries across Europe, the Americas and Asia. Apart from its headquarters in Fukuoka, Aso Group has an office in Tokyo and Serving the public since 1918, Aso’s Iizuka Hospital has more than 1,000 beds to provide medical Aso Cement’s Kanda plant on the eastern coast of Fukuoka is strategically located to deliver large affiliates in Dover, the United States care to the residents of Kyushu. quantities of cement. and London. Aso’s founder, who later served as a legislator in his hometown of Profitable business consulting services. These value- foreign language training centre in Partnerships, mergers an attractive expansion opportunity Fukuoka, Kyushu’s largest city, with social benefits added products include highly Shenyang. In Kaohsiung, Aso has and other opportunities for Aso is food and beverage. With the steered the group’s maturity from its functional concrete products, developed a technical alliance with a population of Asia booming, Iwao Aso humble origins. Several generations Aso’s business philosophy views environmentally friendly cement and Taiwanese company in resin concrete Aso has a long history of mergers and sees tremendous potential for quality later, the founder’s great-great- social progress and respect for other building materials. and manhole production, while in acquisitions (M&A), which dates back Japanese cuisine breaking through grandson, CEO and Aso Group chair, local communities as essential The group has been led by a Shanghai, the company has a to the 1930s. Yet despite its immense the traditional market. He is interested Iwao Aso, is leading the conglomerate ingredients for economic growth. The mission to help shape Japan’s core technical venture in cement size, the company is still actively on in exploring a food chain venture in through the 21st century, guided by group is committed to contributing to through all its initiatives. “We want to production with a local company. the lookout for fresh M&A Asia, possibly through an M&A in the philosophy that “every business is society by providing quality medical help our country and help the region, Aso also has set up an office in opportunities, particularly in Japan. markets such as Hong Kong, where the main business”. care, training opportunities for while simultaneously maintaining Bangkok and is expanding. Building Among Aso’s recent successful he has a network of high-profile The bustling city of Fukuoka, students and employees, and sustainability in profits,” Iwao Aso inroads into Indonesia, Aso will be acquisitions is a 25 per cent stake business people. ranked last year as the 12th most- sustainable infrastructure. says. “Through agile, strategic and starting new undergraduate in a construction firm that was “At the moment, McDonald’s is liveable city in the world by Monocle Aso’s foray into the medical and multifaced management, we are curriculums at a local university in instrumental in plugging the the biggest player in the sector, magazine, stands testament to Aso health care sectors with its group fulfilling our mission to contribute to Jakarta this year. leakage of contaminated seawater followed by KFC and Domino’s Pizza – Group’s legacy. Praised for its green hospitals created one of the largest the innovation of social systems and By harnessing the full power of its at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear all American companies,” Iwao Aso spaces amid a metropolitan setting, private hospital groups in Japan in Iwao Aso, CEO and demonstrate strong competitiveness subsidiaries, Aso Group aims to Power Plant. This newly acquired says. “I see a great opportunity for a Fukuoka has surpassed Japan’s terms of the scale of bed capacity and Aso Group chair despite economic fluctuations.” improve lifestyles and encourage construction firm also has an good food and beverage provider former imperial capital, Kyoto, as the the range of sectors, which broadly healthy living worldwide. It creates excellent track record in soil coming from Japan to penetrate country’s sixth-largest city. offer services from acute to chronic Asian push and global “infrastructure for social capital” and improvement projects to solidify the market.” Proudly family-owned, the group care. Through its ceaseless it delivers high standards of education expansion participates in businesses that soft foundations. But Aso has a soft spot for continues its century-long involvement in medical care for local that maximise the potential of support the service industry. The group joined other medical care because of the contribution to the community, finding communities, Aso further expanded students for the benefit of Driven by the needs of its customers, The initial foray into Japanese companies at the benefits it brings to society. With its virtue in moderation as it focuses on into traditional Chinese medicine communities. Its education and Aso Group responds with solutions on Indonesia is seen to bring more forefront of the clean-up effort, lengthy experience in hospital its key sectors. As of this year, it clinics and nursing homes, and has human resources-related business is an international level. It has opportunities for the group as it providing cutting-edge solutions management, the group sees growth manages 81 subsidiaries and built its expertise in associated health centred at the vocational college, established a global portfolio in actively seeks like-minded, family- such as environmentally friendly in assisted living, nursing homes and scored revenue of 208.5 billion yen care offerings. It provides myriad which is the largest temporary sectors including building materials, owned businesses for long-term cement to contain the pollutants. similar facilities. (HK$15.8 billion). services such as medical software staffing-related business in Kyushu. education and training, food and ventures in the greater Southeast It sees the benefits of bringing to Amid ageing populations and “Aso Group is committed to solutions, staffing, waste recycling Recognising the importance of restaurant, and real estate. Asia region and elsewhere. market the expertise gained by the shrinking government health care offering the best in innovative and pharmacies. Consequently, these reliable infrastructure and The group has a strong Looking to be an international various companies from the budgets, the company considers it a solutions and reliable products and ventures have brought employment environmental solutions for commitment to Asia with ventures on company within the next 20 to 30 Fukushima experience. noble effort to help regional areas services in our four core businesses – and social infrastructure development communities worldwide, Aso built the mainland, Taiwan, Thailand, years, the group has invested in The group continues to watch secure medical care. It is seeking infrastructure and environmental to generations of residents in the Japan’s first medical waste recycling Singapore and Vietnam. Its reach into property sectors abroad with a focus for opportunities. With close partners in Asia with the ideal skills solutions, medical and health care, Kyushu and Chikuho regions. system. It is at the forefront of the mainland and Taiwan include on long-term buy-and-hold relationships to regional banks and a similar vision. education and human resources, and In the area of education, Aso providing industrial waste recycling operations dedicated to its education investments, rather than short-term in Kyushu and other financial “We’d be excited to shake lifestyle services,” Iwao Aso says. provides opportunities for students solutions and promotion of renewable and cement manufacturing capital gains. Aso is also exploring giants in Japan, it is well-positioned hands with the right people who also “We create high-value-added and business people through the resources. It also offers businesses. It has a digital technology property investment opportunities in to help expedite bank financing for want to change their communities solutions that benefit society at large Aso College Group. One of the largest comprehensive infrastructure educational institution in partnership Britain, Australia, Singapore and such initiatives. for the better and deliver the best,” and bring new values to life.” vocational colleges in western Japan, solutions, from building materials to with a university in Dalian, and a Hong Kong. Among the sectors that present Aso says.