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Netatmo_v4.indd 1-2 6/23/15 12:25 PM AsiaStrategy_cropmarks.indd 1 1/14/15 10:35 AM CONTENTS

VOL. 52, ISSUE 7

6 FEATURED CONTRIBUTORS 20 TECH IN JAPAN Netatmo Welcome 7 EDITOR'S DESK is Coming Home From the Design Team Security device empowers parents and homeowners 9 SOCIAL MEDIA Julian Ryall Trending on the Web 22 ARTI-SENSE 10 COVER STORY Fishing for Solutions Silver Lining of a Gray Cloud Kit Pancoast Nagamura Richard Smart 24 VOICES OF JAPAN 14 PARTNER CONTENT Land of the Rising Sister— Japanese Commercialization Japan’s Search for Drive in Full Swing Gender Parity Nikkei Asian Review Dr. Nancy Snow

15 J-MEDIA 26 ENTREPRENEUR In an Era of Change Food for Spies Innovation can also change Tim Maughan the rules of society translation of article by 28 MARKET TRENDS William H. Saito Faith in Numbers

16 THE THIRD ARROW Halal products draw more tourists to Japan More Plant Investment Predicted for Japanese Tom Benner Generics 39 ACCJ MEMBER NEWS Martin Foster

18 MARKET TRENDS DISCLAIMER Consumption Tax Custom Media and the ACCJ will not accept liability for any damages caused by the contents of The Journal, Anthony Fensom including, but not limited to, any omissions, errors, facts or false statements. Opinions or advice expressed in the The Journal are not necessarily those of the ACCJ or Custom Media.

COVER IMAGE: DJ Kume, 71, is not slowing down

Credit: Custom Media

—Page 10 FEATURED CONTRIBUTORS 6 2013 CompanyoftheYear uniquebydesign.jp

JOURNAL THE of situations. I am excessively optimistic inalot butmedia, perhaps that's because forI'm hopeful future the of print Thoughts onprintjournalism: we are today. thinkers that helped us get to where as Peterson’s show and such podcasts I am aregular listener to DJ jazz Gilles Currently listeningto: I may not finish any them. of Marquez, and Daniel Kahnemann. Theodor Adorno, Gabriel Garcia I currently have open by books worldthe works, or often doesn’t. andthat fiction point outthe way I like to read writers the innonfiction Currently reading: Living and writing inJapan since 2002 Years injournalism: narratives best the for stories. most comments meaningful that create people inabsurd situations to give the figures, butalways found average I’ve a number interviewed of prominent Most memorableinterviewee: and readI speak English and Japanese. Languages: Hometown: “Silver of Lining RICHARD SMART a Gray Cloud” In Our TimeIn Our page 10 page

Sheffield,Britain n , which covers, which the

JULY

2015

certified bytheJapan PrintingInkMakersAssociation. Forest Stewardship Councilwithvegetable oilink The Journal Ximena Criales Michael Pfeffer Graphic Designers John Amari Deputy Editor Paul Leonard Studio Manager Robert Heldt President Simon Farrell Publisher

isprintedonpaper certifiedbytheUS important than any of us know. tracked. Thatbe couldmore widely, and without excessively being but print journalism travels freely, considered—onlineto be offersthat— you travel. Sure there's convenience toelse dictate how, and when, where transportation and allowing someone would like giving be up individual To give up print journalism Thoughts onprintjournalism: and paint exceptionally well. Secret skill: and Matsuo Basho. husband and my son; Yanagi Soetsu Jim Shepard, my and Charlie Baxter; my writing instructors John Hawkes, intellectual parents; Dr. Shuichi Kato; Mentors: essays, and journalism) publishingpoetry, (fiction, haiku, 20 years inJapan, and 25years in Years injournalismandJapan: Kusama Yayoi, and Okamoto Taro standouts would Raymond be Carver, Most memorableinterviewee: English, Japanese, and French Languages: and Cape Breton, Nova Scotia Hometown: KIT NAGAMURA

“Fishing for

Solutions” page 22 page My fearless and fiercely Yoshiki Tatezaki Project Coordinator Kana Shimoyoshi Media Coordinator Greg Sawers Yunnes Evans Jamie McAlister Account Executives Megumi Okazaki Marketing Manager Joy Fajardo Client ServicesManager Sam Bird Client ServicesDirector

Ican really loud whistle Coconut Grove, Florida

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© 2015CustomMediaK.K. Tel: 03-4540-7730 Tokyo 106-0041 2-3-3 Azabudai,Minato-ku, Daiwa AzabudaiBldg.6F solutions. Producers ofBusinessinJapanTV. strategy/visual communications,corporatebespoke of Commerce inJapan.Specialistsbilingualbrand Publishers of Custom Media [email protected] To advertise: Maughan, areporter inChina. with adifferent confused to be Tim I’m Social mediahandle: and novelist poet the Role modelormentor: southern England. newspaper reporter Sussex, inEast journalist job.first full-time Iwas a Years injournalism: myI ride Honda bike down there. half full. have balanced, for now.glass The is the left shelves, thatseems it things After swathes of magazines have Thoughts onprintjournalism: establishingwhen contact. (informal Japanese house) drinking in ages. Thisskill is a good Secret skill: Finn and the Around World the Currently reading: Favorite placeinJapan: firing exercises in Wales. Army battle troopers, tank on live Most memorableinterviewee: Hometown: TIM MAUGHAN twitter.com/maughan_tim , by Mark Twain. for Spies” for The Journal The Journal

“Food page 26 page

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Darlington, Britain Guessing people’s

for theAmericanChamber

by Joshua Slocum,

Sailing Alone Alone Sailing Since 1997:my OnTwitter, Philip Larkin, Joshino, Nara. izakayas

—not British British

EDITOR'S DESK EDITOR'S FROM THE DESIGN TEAM

Custom Media

In the June issue, Robert Heldt, CONTENT AND FORM is presented with more color; president of Custom Media K. K., In addition to the magazine’s new improved use of space; emphasis the publisher of this magazine for the title—changed from the ACCJ Journal on large, impactful images where American Chamber of Commerce to, simply, The Journal—readers will possible; and imaginative use of in Japan (ACCJ), explained how the have noticed the all-new format with graphics and infographics. digital universe is transforming both two sections. “We are working together to print and online media. The first part is dedicated to create visually compelling, easy- Heldt’s comments are part of a series content about global business in to-read, in-depth material for of messages from the Editor’s Desk that Japan, based on long-form writing by the magazine that brings to life seek to explain many of the changes, professional journalists; the second is the words of our writers and in terms of content and format, that reserved for ACCJ matters: the voices contributors,” adds Ximena Criales, the magazine has undergone since its and activities of members. another Custom Media designer, relaunch, in April. The format of the magazine has also from Mexico. In this issue, we turn our attention undergone a major renewal. “Readers to an important part of the team that is who are familiar with The Journal,” GLOBAL AUTHORITY, driving through many of the changes, says Michael Pfeffer, a designer at LOCAL EXPERTISE namely, the designers. Due to their Custom Media and former New York Now available in print, online, creativity and hard work, the magazine resident, “may have noticed a change and in downloadable PDF format, is undergoing perhaps its boldest from the moment the April issue The Journal—with its fresh content redesign in its 52–year history. was in their hands. With its glossy and appearance—is being positioned “We’ve spent a lot of time listening to cover, the entire feel of the magazine with guidance by the ACCJ as the ACCJ leadership as well as to readers is different.” “The authority on global business and contributors to the magazine. Much else has been revamped, in Japan.” This is a challenge that Bearing their ideas in mind, as also the as can be seen once you open the Leonard, Pfeffer, and Criales are latest industry trends, we are seeing magazine and begin to navigate embracing with gusto. changes designed to improve our readers’ within. There are, for instance, The designers not only hope that experience of the magazine,” says two contents pages: one for the you will continue to enjoy reading Custom Media’s Studio Manager Paul long-form journalism section and the magazine but also—and equally Leonard, who hails from the UK and has the other, following this segment, important to their efforts—wish to enjoyed over 27 years in the trade. for the ACCJ section. Information hear what you think of the changes. n

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IN THE NEWS FROM JAPAN TOP HASHTAGS LINKEDIN Tweets from leading Tweets in Japanese This month: Popular tags Discussions from media outlets from people and media from the top 30 list global leaders

@TechCrunch @TheEconomist US consumers and Internet marketers at A weaker yen poses odds over data privacy, problems elsewhere. report says. http://econ.st/1M7d6Sk http://on.tcrn.ch/l/PwXk

@guardian

FIFA President Sepp Blatter ranked among long-serving leaders

http://gu.com/p/49ag5/stw

Rank GIGAZINE (ギガジン) Googleが「あなたの身にもしものことがあり、亡くなったり以後アカウントを使うこと 1 #TeenChoice @gigazine ができなくなった場合、デジタル財産を全削除するか指定した相手に遺贈するか決めら れる」という機能の提供を開始しました。 7 #トレクル http://gigazine.net/news/20130412-google-delete-account-and-data/ Torekuru game app Google launched a new feature that helps you choose whether you want to delete s your digital assets entirely, or leave them to someone you selected in a will, when 10 #nowplaying you can no longer use your account.* 20 #NoControlDay ITmedia 西武鉄道は6月16日、2016年春の運行開始を目指して観光電車の開発に着手したと ビジネスオンライン 発表した。西武線の観光地・秩父をテーマに、全席レストラン車両とし、料理を味わいな 30 #UCLfinal @itm_business がら車内の時間を楽しめるという。 http://bizmakoto.jp/makoto/articles/1506/16/news124.html Seibu Railway announced June 16 that they have begun developing trains for tourists to be launched in spring 2016. The whole train will have Chichibu, a major city and tourist destination on the Seibu line, as its theme. Passengers will enjoy themselves with foods served on the train.* * Translations of original content in Japanese

Hiroshi Mikitani, Meg Whitman, CEO, Rakuten Inc. CEO at Hewlett-Packard

ADVICE TO MILLENNIALS: DO ANYTHING. START NOW! THE STATE OF TECHNOLOGY: WELCOME TO THE IDEA ECONOMY I’m often asked by recent graduates beginning their careers at Rakuten: “What is your secret? We’re living in an age of relentless disruption that is What was your career path from university to CEO?” I did being driven by technology: anything. I did it right away! And I still do it today . . . My point is, Threats and uncertainty • Constant connectivity just act. Don’t wait to be told what to do. Simply take action . . . Instant gratification • New channels and don’t wait. New markets • New business models As I meet with customers in diverse industries and governments around the world, it’s clear to me that we’re now living in an Idea Economy, where the ability to turn an idea into a new product or service has never been easier.

THE JOURNAL n JULY 2015 9 MONIED SENIORS ARE A MARKETER’S DREAM

By Richard Smart

On a June morning about an hour after dawn, the Further in the park, another group practices Tai-chi to the sounds of Chinese folk music. Nearby, gray-haired couples sun is still low and the air cool. In Rinshi-no-Mori, and groups of friends stroll. These early hours at the park a large park in eastern Tokyo, the elderly gather offer one glimpse of Japan’s future. A significant portion of the nation’s population, without the vim and vigor of youth, in their dozens. By 6:30am, the starting time for remains active and happy. Rajio Taiso, the early morning exercise program For some, however, the increase in the number of aged people does not bode well for the future. “People around aired each day by public broadcaster NHK Radio, here are getting too old; they don’t need to do dry cleaning about 200 seniors have gathered to do their daily regularly these days,” says Masae Sugimura, who has operated a family-run laundry near the park for about 30 years. stretches and light calisthenics. “We have started delivering some heavier things, such as

Fit and enjoying longevity, Japan's elderly represent both challenges and opportunities. COPYRIGHT RICHARD SMART

10 THE JOURNAL n JULY 2015 COVER STORY 11 2015

JULY

n

THE JOURNAL Duncheon co-founded and was CEO of Grabit, a Silicon a Silicon Grabit, CEO of was and co-founded Duncheon “It is . . . a big challenge to secure to the necessary challenge personnel, . . . a big is “It that, even if a population inevitable, is immigration Some 35 years around industry been for in the robot have “I “Almost all Japanese companies,” says William Hall of of Hall William says companies,” all Japanese “Almost that specializes in robotics. “It is just amazing how fast fast how amazing just is specializes “It that in robotics. about.” coming are developments technology electroadhesion patented with company Valley from government coffers or those of insurance companies. of insurance or those coffers government from the government environment,” their working improve to and “majority The social on in a report security year. last wrote services; care in the long-term most female are workers of services in-home part-time . . . while for most them work of full-timers.” are in facilities workers open to reluctant is homogeneous itself considers large, and by as enter is those that however, here, problem The the gates. up infrastructure.” calls of a “lack Hama face what workers care integrate to foreigners allow would that social reform Without will linger. problems the economy, deeper into THE AGE OF ROBOTS solution. a future are robots if wondering has some That as robots—such communicative and Emotion-reading it—begin hitting like machines other and Pepper, SoftBank’s the perform essential they cannot but this year, the market struggle. elderly That which the immobile with housework hopeful. are however, will Many, take time. in the environment this kind of of dreamed I always and Charlie says here,” is the future looks like it Well, future. a consultancy Associates, who Duncheon heads Duncheon popular Japanese dishes into purees or stews that are are that stews or purees into dishes Japanese popular for the market grayer, gets Japan As the elderly. to palatable year. last million $30 about worth was It foods willsuch grow. the both problem addressed have Unicharm and Kewpie old to lines product existing adapting by Japan a graying of industries. consumer seen across tweaks are Similar people. realized now “have company, the global marketing Ipsos, one.” growing and a huge is market the senior that CAUSE FOR CONCERN seeking Sugimura’s customers of the fall in the number As populations graying dry service however, cleaning shows, adaptations force and in business lead a decline can to are of this implications The profitable. always not are that more get, the older people The governments. bad news for live the elderly of they 26 percent And need. treatment man the average where in Japan, point, some At alone. in a decline and 87, immobility to woman 80 and to lives Japan in workers of care number The a risk. health becomes in 2010, 1.33 million 550,000 in 2000 to from increased be need to All these workers the government. to according directly comes often their wages for the money and paid, Food maker Kewpie Corporation is also is seeing the Corporation Kewpie maker Food This gives companies a chance to capitalize on what on what to capitalize chance a companies This gives Abenomics, Japan’s policy mix for boosting the economy, boosting policy the economy, mix for Japan’s Abenomics, Yet this gray cloud has a silver lining, and getting to grips grips to getting and lining, a silver has cloud this gray Yet And beyond the most active, physical deterioration, deterioration, physical active, the most beyond And products in Japan for many years to come, considering how how considering come, to years many for in Japan products to in response become have the products mainstream more consumers.” a wide variety of the needs of line product Menu” “Gentle Its yen. of a silver benefits have that older food to people softer offers the elderly for makes company The swallowing. and chewing trouble diapers do well across Asia, where there are still plenty of of still plenty are there where Asia, across do well diapers because stable than more is market while home its babies, as And the elderly. to products incontinence sales of of notes, International Euromonitor company research market playing expected continue to are trends “Demographic incontinence for boosting demand of in terms a role in Kyoto, is among the pessimists. While the government is the government While the pessimists. among is in Kyoto, policies its says she demographics,” about noises “making forward.” of instead backward looking “anachronistic, are Unicharm government. by left callsshe the “vacuum” in on cashing is It company. such one is Corporation Unicharm incontinence. adult of the once-taboo subject security will funds be strained. graying the nation’s manage to be attempt in part to is said an the rises, country allowing tax revenue so that population debt. the national down bring and elderly its for pay to School Business Doshisha at economist an Hama, Noriko of the population today is elderly and the proportion is is the proportion and elderly is today the population of the Pew to 2050, according By rising. expected continue to will be 53. the Japanese of age the average Center, Research causing sees ageing meanwhile, health ministry, Japan’s of will the number fall and supply labor problems: four economic will drop; ratio rise; the savings welfare those on and achieve; social to difficult will more become growth that can be transferred to other parts of the world as ageing ageing as theworld parts of other to be can transferred that a globalbecomes issue. OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS in any than year last born in Japan were babies Fewer 1950s. A quarter the period early least at since 12-month concerns that Japan must address. Funding the care of a of the care Funding address. must Japan that concerns puts daily almost increasing whose needs are population balance sheets. government and communities on strains gathering is tsunami” “gray called Japan’s have some What on society. costs huge inflict will and inevitably pace, business, in and innovation, for opportunities offers it with blankets, that older people cannot carry by themselves. Or carry themselves. cannot people by older that blankets, number The them up.” pick and will come workers care dry service cleaning is Sugimura’s using customers of the old. replacing not are people Young decreasing: all growing are helpers dependence on and loneliness, icon-partners.com TEL: 03-4530-9600 Icon Partners Supply Chain Talent Specialists

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10 PRODUCTS TARGETING THE SILVER YEN

1 TALKING DOLLS for elderly people who live alone, that help stave off mental decline

Grabit's robots 2 BRAIN-TRAINING GAMES can pick up a from Nintendo drinks can and other products, a feat with a 3 ONLINE END-OF-LIFE DEATH PLANNING SERVICES number of applications. from Yahoo

4 NEW TYPES OF WHEELCHAIRS

5 NEW TYPES OF BEDS FOR THE AGED that allows its robotic grippers to pick up flat 6 VARIOUS TYPES OF ROBOTS materials, such as fabrics, with which standard including communicative ones machines struggle. He remains on-board as an adviser. The company’s next target is e-commerce 7 BICYCLES WITH SPECIAL HANDLEBARS warehouses. targeted at those with rheumatoid arthritis “We have built and demonstrated prototypes that can handle a bottle of shampoo, a can of soda, a bag 8 VARIOUS NEW CLOTHING TYPES of snacks, and CDs,” Duncheon says. “That’s the area that improve blood circulation we see ourselves going into in the future.” How does this relate to the elderly? Think of the 9 GOLF DRIVERS iPhone. It is made by Apple, but inside, the parts that enable you to hit almost as far as you could when are from a vast array of companies. In robotics, you were younger components and technologies are also out there that have the potential to come together and change the 10 CONVENIENCE STORE PRODUCTS way we live. Numerous developments suggest home- that are modified to suit the elderly care robots are not as far-fetched as they once were. Duncheon points to three factors driving the industry forward: lower costs for components, due to demand volume in consumer electronics; transferable advances in software and hardware for factory robotics; and the advent of “collaborative” machines that people wear, such as Cyberdyne Inc.’s Hybrid THE FUTURE TODAY Assistive Limb (HAL), which supports human limbs and Better materials for robots than metals, sharper regulations allows them to function better. to ensure safety, social acceptance, and numerous other “The biggest impact that these emerging technologies can obstacles must also be overcome, if grandma and grandpa have in Japan is in elderly care in the home,” Duncheon says. are to be cared for by machines. But in all areas, work is “The more the elderly can be cared for in their own homes, being done. Today, it is for and not in special facilities, the more efficient [the care] the private sector to figure [Japan] still needs industry becomes.” out automation for its In particular, advances in artificial intelligence designed immediate needs. Even if it some way to make to allow robots to do the warehouse work for Amazon.com does not do so, the country sure the nation’s senior Inc.—that today is done by humans in a “high stress and still needs some way to turnover environment”—can be transferred. make sure the nation’s senior citizens are a boon “Over time, in either a virtual or physical environment, citizens are a boon rather rather than a burden. the robot can teach itself how to successfully handle parts. than a burden. If that approach is taken to the warehouse or factory floor, Hama believes that immigration, government policy and it can then be transferred to the home as well. I think there the more futuristic aspects of care for the elderly would all be may be some tweaking of what industry is already doing welcome. “Anything and everything is worth a try,” she says. for the home.” “It is about getting the mix right.” n

THE JOURNAL n JULY 2015 13 PARTNER CONTENT 14

JOURNAL THE REGENERATIVE MEDICINE MARKET Application have (CiRA) teamed up to Center for Research and iPSCell Pharmaceutical and Kyoto University’s Japanese maker Takeda drug ALLIANCE CELL with foreign their competitors. outsiders—are to go poised toe-to-toe some considered industry medical Japanese companies—including or four. With revision, the many from more than 10years to three for needed time commercialization regulatory approval, slashing the year reduces required time the for AffairsLawthat last effect took Source: a recent revision legal could help Japan catch up. functions, but it lags incommercialization. However, on treatments that living use cells to restore bodily Japan is aresearch field, inthe which leader focuses into ($20.7billion) by industry a¥2.5trillion 2050. gear, withdomestic the market projected to balloon Regenerative medicine inJapan has shifted into high 0. 1. 1. 2. 2. 5 0 5 0 5 0 PROJECTED VALUE OF JAPAN’S JAPAN’S OF VALUE PROJECTED A change to Pharmaceutical the

Ministry ofEconomy, Trade andIndustry 201 2 in of trillions yen n

’

2 JULY 0

2015 ’ 3 0 Drive inFullSwing JAPANESE COMMERCIALIZATION ’ 5 0

regenerative medicine inJapan. it to play aleading role inpromoting market, and many expect observers toparticularly keen bring products to was put together by forum members April 1,with one employee. The unit task force opened aTokyo office on Nippon Printing. Kawasaki Heavy Industries, and Dai such outsiders medical as Hitachi, in regenerative medicine, including more than 100 companies interested Regenerative Medicine. It comprises fieldthe is Forum for Innovative Another alliance targeting the COMPANIES 100+ OF FORUM makerto for drug the project. the University 50of send its will researchers venturethe over next the 10years. Kyoto medicine holds. of promise the that regenerative union the “historic”called and spoke before,”this Yamanaka said. Weber comprehensive joint research like alliance onthe April 17. and CEOChristophe Weber announced of together CiRA, with Takeda President a professor at university the and director stem-cell researcher Shinya Yamanaka, stem (iPS)cells. Nobel Prize-winning conduct research on induced pluripotent The forum’s commercialization Takeda plans to spend ¥20billion on large-scale,no been has “There Kyoto University’s Professor ShinyaYamanaka, atapress conference inApril. Takeda President Pharmaceutical andCEOChristopheWeber, left,and create development of bases member medicine products. torush commercialize regenerative able be to producewill as they specific results Japanese companies related intellectual property. account for bulk of the iPScell- held by CDI and Kyoto University largest supplier. iPScell Patents International (CDI), world’s the to buy Dynamics Cellular US-based automated culture for device sheets. cell Medical University to commercialize an uphas tied with Tokyo Women’s for processing cells. Hitachi, for example, technologies are already used being Japanese regenerative medicine. to establishseek standards global for through Japanese the which group will Organization for Standardization, as of head apanel at International the Regulations zone. inthe have eased been zone inKawasaki, Kanagawa Prefecture. companies inacomprehensive special The taskThe force already has to decided by NikkeiInc.Allrightsreserved. Nikkei AsianReview ©2015 NikkeiInc. Attention is shiftingwhat to Fujifilm Holdings recently decided Some Japanese manufacturing A forum representative serve also will

n ispublished Efforts to the contrary notwithstanding, Moore’s Law (coined by J-MEDIA Gordon Moore in 1965) and its subsequent observations, which in IN AN ERA effect state that the costs of components are halved every two years, have become a self-fulfilling prophecy. This is all the more reason that Japanese corporations should abandon their role as parts shops OF CHANGE and seek to become platformers, as are Apple and Google. Despite software’s taking on ever-greater importance, many Innovation can also change Japanese corporations still cling to the manufacturer mentality. Sharp, whose very existence is threatened, never managed to cast the rules of society off its dependence on components. Recently, it announced the sales launch of a new TV receiver realizing high image resolution equivalent to the so-called 8K format (a system capable of Translation of article displaying 16 times the detail of the current full hi-vision format). Sharp’s ability to produce such a superb product notwithstanding, in Diamond online the product is useless without companies to provide compatible by William H. Saito image and audio content. Nor can we disregard Moore’s Law, by which the price of this 8K TV display device is fated to see its price @whsaito drop by half within two years. Moore’s Law, now an established theory in the technology field, stipulates that, “The performance of a semiconductor will double within 18 to 24 months, while its cost drops to one half.” In a society Have you ever given thought to why rules exist? Some where so little is predictable, this law can be said to be one of a very few that accurately forecasts the future. It’s been spot-on for may be of the opinion that rules are there for those who Takeda Pharmaceutical President and CEO Christophe Weber, left, and 50 years, and I suppose will continue to be so. Kyoto University’s Professor Shinya Yamanaka, at a press conference in April. don’t think. Of course, without some constraints, society In order to spur innovation, Japanese companies—and not only Sharp—must change their fixed ways of thinking and rules. The would collapse in disorder. But, nevertheless, people who other day I had a discussion with a Kansai-based manufacturer’s put their minds to work in the pursuit of innovation in senior manager, who confessed to me that, “Our company and its workforce are unable to change from their deeply rooted culture.” some cases manage to change the rules completely. But is that really the case? Japanese companies have many excellent human resources, and if members of staff are provided In the background are the passions and visions of those moved by with fair and transparent incentives, I believe that it is possible a desire to create business models that will change the world. Thus for them to change dramatically. One of the companies in which changing the rules may also result in the creation of new values. I’ve invested—since its adoption of a system according to which Take the example of America’s Uber Technologies Inc., which authority is granted, and by which remuneration is based on job harnesses a mobile application to dispatch vehicles and provide performance—underwent an almost complete change merely in ridesharing services. Despite being the target of numerous lawsuits one business quarter. Even without changes in its workforce, all staff around the world, its CEO, Travis Kalanick, never held back on began to work as if they were different people. disseminating his service. The simplest prescription for raising staff motivation is to adopt a Beginning in the United States, Uber has successively proceeded system providing incentives. This is a common situation worldwide. to major cities in Asia and Europe, frequently incurring hostile What’s more, Japanese businesses tend to have an overly strong reactions from existing taxi industries. The lawsuits, in Kalanick’s bias against young people. It is common to hear upper management view, can be said to be a testimonial to his attempt to effect change, complain that today’s youth “lack passionate ambition, even when on a global scale, to an industry’s rules. they possess ability,” and that “one doesn’t feel they are sufficiently Merely over the past 20 years, the upheavals we’ve witnessed motivated.” This is all the more reason that they should be delegated in societal rules could even be said to exceed the wildest plots of with authority. Assigning them responsibility and authority would science fiction movies. We are truly in an era of change. But as long nurture their self-confidence and passion. as we remain bound by the old rules, innovation and new ideas According to an annual Organisation for Economic Co-operation won’t be created. and Development (OECD) survey that measures labor productivity, Take Sharp Corporation’s current management crisis, the causes Japan ranks lowest among all advanced economies. According to of which originate in the company’s inability to change. I’ve 2014 statistics compiled by the Japan Productivity Center, Japan’s mentioned before that many businesses take pride in their status as labor productivity (nominal value added per individual worker) "parts shops." But, as long as such companies remain complacent, ranked 22nd out of 34 OECD member countries. For the 20 years they can’t expect their future to be a bright one. Why? since 1994, Japan has ranked at the bottom of the seven advanced Let’s contrast Sharp with Apple Inc., which adopted the policy of economies. On top of this abysmal ranking, Japan’s low birth always dealing with two suppliers. This stems from the view that no rate and aging society portend a sharp decline in the working matter how excellent a supplier’s products, should something occur population of the nation, leading one to fear for its very future. to halt one’s production, Apple would be able to avoid the effects by Now, more than ever, Japan needs to confront ways to boost labor shifting orders to the other supplier. But there’s another reason for efficiency and raise productivity. I look forward to sharing my views the policy. Since Apple will order more parts from the supplier that on this theme with readers in future articles. n offers them more cheaply, this puts the two suppliers in a state of constant price competition. As the cost for parts keeps falling, the Full-length original article: supplier’s profits keep dropping. http://diamond.jp/articles/-/72519

THE JOURNAL n JULY 2015 15 MORE PLANT INVESTMENT PREDICTED FOR JAPANESE GENERICS

By Martin Foster

The Japanese generic drugs market is likely to see a shakeout, US, which has achieved replacement levels of about 90 percent. expanded plant investment by industry winners, and possibly closer According to a June 10 report by tie-ups among existing makers of brand-name drugs and generics, Nikkan Yakugyo, a pharmaceutical industry journal, Minister for according to lobbyists, analysts, and market participants. Further, Health, Labour and Welfare Yasuhisa because Japan is one of the most rapidly aging societies, global drug Shiozaki told the Council on Economic and Fiscal Policy that he makers are watching to see how it boosts the use of generics and had no intention of surrendering keeps the lid on burgeoning health budgets. the 2020 targets of 80 percent generics replacement, and may even consider bringing forward the Drugs accounted for 21.7 percent to keeping the Japanese population target date. Yet the ambitious target of the nation’s ¥39.2 trillion (about active and healthy, while curbing may place too much pressure on $318 billion) total medical costs of medical costs, which accounted for the generics industry, according to as of March 31, 2013, according to 10.3 percent of GDP in fiscal 2012 Shuhei Hosokawa, secretary general figures released June 10 by the Central (ended March 31, 2013). of the Tokyo-based Japan Society of Social Insurance Medical Council, Japan is ahead of schedule in Generic Medicines. an advisory panel to the Ministry replacing brand drugs with generic “If this target is implemented of Health, Labour and Welfare. equivalents, and the 2018 target immediately, then the generics Medical costs are rising at the rate of 60 percent replacement levels is business model could buckle,” of about ¥1 trillion per year. Thus, likely to be achieved this calendar Hosokawa says. “Some thinking the expanded use of generics, which year. That should bring Japan into needs to be done, to prevent the are often 50 percent cheaper than line with generics levels in Spain and target getting ahead of itself.” brand-name pharmaceuticals, is key France, although lagging behind the The basic test Japanese makers face is guaranteeing stable generics supplies for use in healthcare. The TRENDS IN THE MARKET SHARE OF GENERIC DRUGS concept is important, since most doubts about generics concern stable % Volume Value supplies. Quality is also an issue. According to Toshitaka Obu, of the 25 healthcare management consulting group at Mitsubishi Research 22.8% 20 Institute, Inc. (MRI), Japanese 20.2% physicians maintain an inordinately 18.7% 16.8% strong fixation with quality compared 15 with doctors overseas. It is a credit to generics makers that they have 10 guided Japanese physicians from a position of not even considering the 8.8% 7.6% use of generics some 10 years ago, 5 5.9% 6.6% to one of trusting generics, based on positive patient feedback. 0 Sept 2005 Sept 2007 Sept 2009 Sept 2011

Source: Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare survey

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n THE JOURNAL In May 2014, Takeda Pharmaceutical Pharmaceutical 2014, Takeda May In companyFrench Sanofi S. A., brand- by affiliates such of Use “We are the only company in the company the only are “We companies leveraging their brand their brand leveraging companies expertise name market in the generics of the spread support to help only can Japanese the lid on keep and generics, medical expenses. companies ahead of patent expiries. patent ahead of companies with agreement signed an Ltd. Co., to Ltd. Co. Pharmaceutical ASKA a ASKA, Candesartan distribute treatment hypertension generic Takeda. from based Blopress on non-Japanese area where an is This bigger makers—with pharmaceutical budgets— development and research advantage. an have to likely are meanwhile, contracted in 2010 with Toyama-based Nichi-iko Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., to duplicate the Sanofiformula for Allegra as Fexofenadine SANIK in a joint venture. may companies pharmaceutical name by further to boostwork confidence of in the level physicians Japanese Obu control, quality and supply stable market of likely combination The says. investment, plant increased shakeouts, pharmaceutical non-Japanese or has switched to ensuring a supply of of a supply ensuring to switched has generics. used make to materials bulk in October end, 2010, Towa that To specializes that a company purchased materials. bulk of in the production material bulk own our with three top know- develop to aim and subsidiary, control,” quality and in production how everything under “Keeping says. Kubo will company single a of the control supply.” a stable maintain us help AUTHORIZED GENERICS the part as of that, MRI notes at Obu necessary “strong industry shakeout, stronger.” get even to likely are firms to likely this is where area One generics (AGs). authorized is happen drugname brand a These allow control some maintain to producer of availability and the quality over contracting by replacements, generic to replacements generic of production venture or joint specificsubsidiaries BRAND the mouth and require no require and the mouth orally as to Referred water. the tablets, disintegrating to firm is looking boost products such of production 2018, from by 90 lines to by And, present. 53 at in-house an developing

The company aims to ensure a to ensure a aims company The “Many [companies] were having having were [companies] “Many The company has has also developed company The Like other major generics makers, makers, generics major Like other problems delivering to Tohoku, for for Tohoku, to delivering problems being their trucks as not reasons such of running out or through, get to able use our to managed we But gasoline. sales and logistics, representatives, says through,” supplies get to network the in manager general Kubo, Shigehiro Towa. at office president’s the to generics of supply stable in a recent and, medical profession activities the focus of development, logistics network, Towa was able to able was Towa logistics network, Tohoku of the areas affected supply East Japan the Great following region 2011.Earthquake of a result, direct marketing has helped has marketing direct a result, closer relationships maintain Towa than pharmacists and physicians with rely that makers beenhas for possible wholesalers. on techniques production of a number added quotient the value maintain to these are Among its products. of makes a technology that RACTAB, take drugs, to patients easier for it in dissolve rapidly that pills including Towa has a broad-based lineup of of lineup a broad-based has Towa about offering currently products, drugcompany types.The 661 different not by its competitors from differs wholesalers but, national through going marketing direct on relying instead, and sales offices own its through risen as have costs Although agents.

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GENERIC In Japan, generics are sold by sold by are generics Japan, In by March 2018 from ¥71,470 million ¥71,470 million 2018 from March by 2015. in March its three factories, in Okayama in Okayama three factories, its Prefecture. and Yamagata Prefecture boost to tablet plans 2018, it By March from units 12.5 billion to production should That 7.5 billion. the present sales ¥105,000 million to up push help fulfill all those requirements. One One fulfill allrequirements. those however, do so, to appear that does Ltd. Co., Pharmaceutical Towa is three the top of one Consistently the makers, generics Japanese investing is Osaka-based company of in two mainly ¥50.6 billion DOUBTS AND CHALLENGES makers generics dedicated many Not manufacture bulk drug materials for for drug bulk materials manufacture sell them, according and products, end Hosokawa. to 40 are dedicated generics makers. makers. generics dedicated 40 are five believes only Of these, Hosokawa What winners. as six willor emerge is in common have winners the likely a vertical that structure but size, not both to them independently allows mandated price reviews. Thus, if reviews. Thus, price mandated cost develop cannot producers the withstand to able structures they to cuts, it difficult willprice find says. survive, Hosokawa which some of companies, about 200 SHAKEOUT were generics in the past, While Health high National by protected drug these listed prices, Insurance every with decline in line years two between brand- between and name drugs generics is set to change. The balance The balance costs medical population the Japanese keeping to and healthy, active use of generics The expanded

CONSUMPTION TAX: Prelude to a Recession in 2017?

By Anthony Fensom

Three consumption tax hikes; three recessions. By most accounts, While the economy bounced back in the following two quarters, posting that is a mean strike rate, but for businesses it could mean the next an annualized 3.9 percent expansion planned increase in Japan’s sales tax—in 2017—sparks another in the March quarter of 2015, Minister of State for Economic and Fiscal Policy downturn in the nation’s economy. Perhaps tired of being lumped Akira Amari said overall sentiment in among the world’s most highly indebted governments, Japanese still showed signs of a “deflationary mindset,” as reported by Reuters in May. lawmakers agreed in March to a rise in the nation’s consumption tax rate from eight to 10 percent on April 1, 2017. FISCAL CREDIBILITY RISK On June 3, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Unlike the previous legislation, this time there was no Development (OECD) predicted—in its “OECD Economic escape clause allowing for the increase to be reviewed Outlook” report—GDP growth for Japan of just 0.7 percent “based on the comprehensive consideration of the economic in 2015 and 1.4 percent the following year, amid a sluggish environment.” This was the get-out-of-jail-free clause used recovery in consumer spending and business investment. by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in November 2014 to dump Yet with general government gross debt at an estimated 230 his predecessor’s policy amid a softening economy, helping percent of GDP (net debt is around 130 percent), the OECD him win re-election. Yet with recessions following the three warned Tokyo of a potential “loss of confidence in its fiscal previous consumption tax rate hikes of 1989, 1997 and 2014, credibility” should it fail to conceive a credible path toward who would bet against another slump in 2017? improving government finances. “As much as we economists always think that this time “Japan is not on track to achieve its target of a primary will be different, it’s clear empirically that, whenever they surplus . . . by 2020, even after the planned hike in the hike the VAT [value-added tax], it sparks a recession. consumption tax rate to 10 percent in 2017,” the OECD report It’s three out of three,” said Japan expert and economist says. “Even at 10 percent, the consumption tax will remain Jesper Koll, formerly head of Japanese equity research at about half the average value-added tax rate in OECD countries. J. P. Morgan Securities Japan. Additional tax revenue should come from broadening the Koll was not alone among economists last year personal and corporate income tax bases and increasing in predicting that the economy would shrug off the environmental taxes.” April 2014 sales tax rate hike, from five to eight percent. He said in March 2014 that it was “unlikely to derail the Consumption Tax Rate recovery” despite consumer spending accounting for around 60 percent of GDP, according to The Diplomat. before The economy surged at an % 1 April annualized rate of 6.7 percent 5 2014 in the March quarter of 2014, as consumers and businesses % now stocked up on major items. However, after April the economy 8 fell off a cliff, contracting for two from % straight quarters—the technical increase to 1 April definition of a recession—as 10 2017 shoppers closed their wallets.

April 2014 April 2017 COPYRIGHT PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS

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Japanese to sales their offshore FRUIT HANGING LOW William Saito, advisor government Japan and Entrepreneur than tax issues faces bigger the nation says meanwhile, investment. increased attract in seeking to reform the among aren’t tax in general tax and “Consumption and entrepreneurship for to be addressed issues five top here. flourish ventures to reform] [a need as to such rudimentary issues [including] would counter the current tax’s relative simplicity and and simplicity relative tax’s the current counter would for mainly are which exemptions, its limited efficiencygiven financial services. costs increased significantly not tax have hikes consumption says. Bird Jack PwC Partner businesses,” Japanese for provider Service Transactions Service Border Cross Download Download with recessions Yet reported reported bet against who would of 1989, 1997 and 2014, another slump in 2017? hikes rate tax consumption previous the three following The Japan Times Japan The “Increasing it only puts the cost the cost puts only it “Increasing (PwC), PricewaterhouseCoopers to according However, Hitoshi Suga, special advisor to the president, Tully’s Tully’s the special president, to Suga, advisor Hitoshi “My personal proposal for the coming 10 years, is that that is 10 years, the coming for personal proposal “My Fink and Koll predict the consumption tax rate will tax rate the consumption predict Koll Fink and “It’s not so much about the amount, as two percent is not not is percent two as the amount, about so much not “It’s Japan analyst Naomi Fink, CEO of Europacifa Consulting, Consulting, Europacifa Fink, CEO of Naomi analyst Japan the Japanese government is considering a multiple rate rate a multiple considering is government the Japanese 2017, with April tax from the consumption for system although products, to various applied rates different this If implemented, be to confirmed. yet the are details of reducing corporate tax onto the tax onto corporate reducing of small midsized to and public general income worsening thereby businesses, from economy the Japanese preventing and disparities says. he growth,” healthy recording the situation for consumers and small and consumers for the situation and in Europe “Unlike businesses. consumption the Japanese elsewhere, ordinary to tax applied is food as and such items household other essentials. could be the tip of a very large iceberg that includes other other includes that iceberg a very be of could the tip large in addition Inc., Tobacco Japan as assets such government holdings. estate real to valuable at Akita professor a visiting and Ltd. Co. Japan Coffee on the burden believes putting University, International worsen only tax would consumption economist Yoichi Takahashi, Japan’s government had had government Japan’s Takahashi, Yoichi economist worth assets fiscalbut 2013, for ¥1.1 quadrillion of debts the league in of the top at Japan ¥652 trillion, putting assets, government-controlled initial public pending Ltd.’s Co. Holdings Post Japan in April. to ¥2 trillion,up government earn could the which offering, the start of April,” he says. “Politically, this would be very this would “Politically, says. he April,” the start of can when we then be [about] would the debate as attractive, it.” on step we when than rather brake, the off foot take our ASSET SALES NOT TAXES? asset approach: a different suggested have others However, University Kaetsu to tax According hikes. than sales rather system’s shift toward indirect taxation is the right approach approach is the right indirect taxation toward shift system’s experiencing which is the nation, of the demographics given to approach a different proposes he but loss, population a net blow. the soften every at point year percentage one by the VAT increase you we know what direction [the tax rate] is going to go in and in and go to going is [the tax rate] direction what know we is . . . the us a vision gives only that thing The higher. that’s it deliver, if they don’t commitment—and government’s a fiscal the of crisis.” risk heightens between “somewhere forecasting Koll with rising, continue the tax says Koll time.” 15 years’ in 10 to 20 percent 12 and agreed with the OECD report, saying Tokyo would be would Tokyo saying report, the OECD with agreed it fail should markets signal financial to a dangerous sending tax hike. the consumption with proceed to it’s but budget, the government’s break or make to going term, “Long Fink says. sending,” the policy they’re message Peace of mind comes in the shape of the Netatmo Welcome. and major facilities such as airports,” said Matthew Broadway, chief operating officer The newest connected device from Paris-based Netatmo, of Netatmo. “No-one has been able to the system links a high-definition video camera positioned develop the technology at the same time as keeping development costs within acceptable in the home to the user’s mobile device, providing real-time levels, so this is an enormous breakthrough,” images from inside the property. he said, adding that the company had been working on the Welcome project for more than two-and-a-half years. What puts the system head and shoulders above other companies that offer home security solutions, however, is the AS EASY AS A, B, C ingenious application—for the first time ever in a consumer- The device is straightforward to use, he said, with the use device—of advanced facial recognition software. homeowner encouraged to place the sleek camera close to That means the user can see precisely what mischief the main point of entrance. The owner then records an image the kids are getting into or permits the monitoring of an of all the people who are regularly in the home—husband, elderly relative. And, in a worst-case scenario, the Netatmo wife, children, babysitter, gardener and so on—and creates a Welcome sends an instantaneous alert when it determines profile for each individual. The facial recognition system will that an uninvited guest is helping himself to the family silver. then automatically identify when each person is in the home and can send an alert to the user’s mobile device. SELLING LIKE HOTCAKES Easy to customize, the system can be programmed to French consumers were swift to grasp the potential of the ignore certain individuals, to provide a live video feed, to system, with the company pre-selling 14,000 units before record or to perform any of a myriad of other options. it was launched on June 11, while the entire stock held by Customization also permits degrees of privacy for Amazon France was sold out within an hour of going on sale. trusted members of the household, but when a face “Up until now, this sort of facial recognition technology that the system does not recognize appears, the has been the preserve of governments, security services reaction is immediate. Netatmo Welcome is Coming Home

Security device empowers parents and homeowners

By Julian Ryall Photos by Masaki Okumura and Nicolas Demeersman

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THE JOURNAL Netatmo Welcome can be programmed to identify family members. to can be programmed Netatmo Welcome Netatmo Welcome is easy to use. Netatmo Welcome Netatmo Welcome is slim and compact. Netatmo Welcome n widely available. available. widely “We know that the Japanese are are the Japanese that know “We And while Netatmo is “a relatively relatively “a is whileAnd Netatmo “But also, for a person like me who is who is me like a person for also, “But “The system is really useful in a whole host of ways,” of ways,” reallyuseful“The is host in a system whole that be to sure who want parents working for great “It’s are a nation of early-adopters.” It helps helps It early-adopters.” of a nation are virtually a cellphone everyone has that is WiFi and broadband says. Broadway a perfect fit,” “It’s an extremely important market for us,” us,” for market important an extremely he said. the veryvery keen use of make to latest very they open are technology, consumer they technology new and ideasto and Tokyu Hands Inc., The Loft Co., Ltd., and and Ltd., Co., The Loft Inc., Hands Tokyu K. K. Japan Amazon in the Japanese brand” unknown believes the Broadway market, will swiftly develop products company’s to be going is “Japan following. a firm The Netatmo Welcome was launched in was launched in Welcome Netatmo The of ¥29,800, a price 22, with June on Japan the main through will and be available Camera Bic including stores, electronics and Ltd., Co., Camera Yodobashi Ltd, as well as Ltd., Co., Yamada-Denki JAPAN LAUNCH JAPAN at home is as it should be.” should it as is home at away from home with business a great a great business with home from away and wife my see to me what allows deal, it allowing in the kitchen, doing are daughter them even with moments share to me Broadway apart,” way a long are we though everything that reassurance offers “It said. their children are home from school; it gives that peace that gives it school; from home are their children people useful also for extremely “It’s said. he mind,” of to be to able want and relatives elderly for caring who are when monitor it can Then safe. they are that sure make present is the babysitter that arrived, has the cleaner on. and so device has full 1080P HD video quality and night vision. device night full has and 1080P HD video quality after in April the company who joined Broadway, says manufacturer appliance home British with 11 years nearly in Japan. which were of Dyson, four PEACE OF MIND Welcome that is rival systems over addedAn advantage in it putting of instead all in the camera the data stores while the security, privacy and better ensuring the cloud, . . . is the ingenious application and head What puts the system other companies above shoulders home security solutions, that offer It’s summertime, and since fish are jumping, the living is indeed somewhat easier for a family of artisans creating and selling traditional Japanese bamboo fishing rods, known aswazao . Opened by the Matsumoto family in 1783, Tosaku Honten has been located in Tokyo’s Inaricho area since that time. Today, Kohei Matsumoto, 65, and his wife manage the store, which is filled with a glossy forest of lacquered bamboo rods. Their twin sons work upstairs.

Matsumoto, a powerful personality with a gray ponytail and a booming voice, shoos me up ARTI-SENSE MONTHLY HAIKU the narrow staircase of the shop. “If you want to learn about wazao, go talk to my boys,” he says, surface rings with a wise wink, as several customers enter the below the bamboo rod store. Upstairs, in a long narrow room surrounded by bundled lengths of drying bamboo canes, summer on the hook Ryohei, 29, the older son by a hair’s breadth, painstakingly straightens a length of bamboo over heat. “This process is calledhiire ,” Shuhei explains, standing over his brother, “and it takes a lot of concentration and a good eye.” Making the delicate yet strong sectional rods, for which Tosaku Honten has been famous for 232 years, actually begins with the twins scouring various bamboo forests in fall and early spring for a few stalks, among hundreds, that are particularly Fishing straight and unmarred. These they bundle by size and allow to dry for an average of three years. Subsequently, the canes are heated with charcoal, and polished to a gleam in a process called for aburanuki (oil-removal). Once the canes are ready, creating the multi-section rod includes kirikumi (selecting one cane for each segment), kirisoroe (cutting the pieces to matching lengths), itomaki (strengthening segment ends with gossamer red Solutions silk threads), and finallynuri (applying multiple coats of lacquer). In total, production of a single rod requires about three months of constant work. The traditional artisans “The average wazao costs between ¥20,000 and ¥30,000,” Shuhei says, “and in terms of time featured in this series invested in crafting it, that’s actually pretty have negotiated cheap.” However, he admits, many who would like to purchase a rod and all the accouterments— novel ways to survive, including a tackle case, traditional landing net, pushing their skills in and bobbers—hesitate to spend so much on a hobby. Their customers, therefore, tend to be the new directions and comfortably retired. devising methods to “Simply put, we survive largely because we have devoted customers,” Shuhei says. “It’s certainly make their age-old not an occupation where you’re going to get products indispensable rich, but if you continue doing it no matter how hard times get, it is at least a business. Our great in a world of largely strength is that we’ve kept the work in the family machine-made goods. for generations.”

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tanago THE JOURNAL nod, smiling. Shuhei’s smiling. Shuhei’s nod, contribution main Tosaku curate to is Internet Honten’s presence—a homepage, and page, Facebook the updates “He blog. new rods any on world or completed I have will we trade shows any Ryohei says. attend,” (Tokyo bitterlings) to sell to sell to to bitterlings) (Tokyo n tanago In the future, both Shuhei and Ryohei hope to to hope Ryohei and both Shuhei the future, In I wonder aloud if the brothers ever go fishing fishing go ever if the brothers aloud I wonder this the policy is that from out I fish What looking were customers our learned what “We As we chat, I note Shuhei does most of the the of does most Shuhei I note chat, we As reveals homepage the store’s peek at A quick developed a tool to take the fish off the hook offthe hook take the fish to a tool developed it.” touching or hurting without their support and willwho understand mates find I shy, bit a both are they Though legacy. family no that’s and good catches, pretty think they’re story. crazy fish already sold, a fact that pleases Shuhei. “It will be “It pleases Shuhei. a fact sold, that already in seek out customers artisan skills that Ryohei’s but pride, with says Shuhei decades,” the coming who will helps it be Shuhei that occurs me to it his work. appreciate people all fishes the time, out, turns it Shuhei, together. “You allowed. not is surprise, my to Ryohei, but you rods, make to going think, if you’re would our “but explains, Shuhei tryshould them out,” only he’ll the hobby, takes up if Ryohei dad says not likes, he rods of the kinds make to be able desire.” customers our what to dedicated astonishingly are twins Matsumoto they trust that their father’s and their business, a bamboo is rod of the beauty as Just wisdom. prove Ryohei and Shuhei partially pliancy, in its fishermen learning that Upon well. as flexible, little colorful tiny, capturing enjoying were calledfish by responded the brothers shops, aquarium hook can that tools and rods designing them minimal harm. while causing We solutions. with up came we together and for, talking, while Ryohei quietly works, only only works, quietly talking, while Ryohei Shuhei qualify to what interrupting occasionally between the hierarchy subtle a There’s said. has seniority, to entirely attribute I can’t that twins mere is advantage Ryohei’s especially that given 18, age since the craft been studying “I’ve minutes. “whereas explains, Ryohei high school,” of out just the family rejoined recently only has Shuhei have will forever Does Shuhei this mean business.” expertise? Both twins brother’s older his to bow to have completed has Ryohei rods few the last that in the the work kept we’ve is that strength Our great generations. for family Text and photos by Kit Pancoast Nagamura by photos and Text Land of the Rising Sister— Japan’s Search for Gender Parity By Dr. Nancy Snow

During my journeys in Japan, I’ve met a number of modern General Assembly, when he said that, “Creating an environment in which women Japanese women who represent the nation’s face of gender find it comfortable to work, and enhancing empowerment in the 21st century. These women are confident opportunities for women to work and to be active in society is no longer a matter of and career-oriented; some are married with children; and they choice for Japan.” are being recognized for their contributions to society. Abe’s presence and exceptionally long participation at WAW! Tokyo—he and his wife Akie were present for one and a half Rui Matsukawa epitomizes this group. Matsukawa days—reinforced the belief, shared by attendees, that he passed the examination for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is not just paying lip service to women’s issues. He is truly of Japan (MOFA), and joined its ranks in April 1993. In committed to women’s empowerment. 1997, she received a Master of Science in Foreign Service Matsukawa has her own tale of finding her voice in from Georgetown University. Matsukawa, a wife and society. “Actually, I was a shy girl when I was little,” she mother of two girls, is now the first director of the Gender says. “I never imagined that I would like to speak in front Mainstreaming Division, Foreign Policy Bureau, MOFA, of many people.” Because she didn’t like to raise her hand a position newly established in 2014. in class, her outgoing mother made a big black paper hat I first met Matsukawa just before she coordinated and arranged for Matsukawa to perform at a community the kick-off World Assembly for Women in Tokyo center as a magician in order to help her overcome some (WAW! Tokyo 2014), an event held at the initiative of of that shyness. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, with keynote speakers that What changed her persona and allowed her to shine in included the Prime Minister himself, US Ambassador public, however, was her best friend from a childhood spent to Japan Caroline Kennedy, and Managing Director of in her hometown of Nara. This girl was always putting up the International Monetary Fund Christine Lagarde. The her hand and saying, “I think …” She had an opinion and assembly’s motto, “Toward a Society Where Women Shine,” was very bold and active. “I was so impressed by her that I is from Abe’s words at the 68th session of the United Nations thought, ‘This is also possible for me,’ ” Matsukawa recalls. “She was like a [role] model for me.” Surprisingly, although the pair were in school Rui Matsukawa, director, Gender Mainstreaming Division, MOFA together in Nara for just one year, the impact this friend had on Matsukawa serves as an example of how, even at a very young age, women can serve as role models for each other, sometimes without even knowing it. When Matsukawa sat for the MOFA exam, out of a total of about 700 applicants, just one or two women passed out of 28 finalists. At that time, it was easy for women to feel discouraged or intimidated, Matsukawa says. Fortunately, in her year, four women passed. “It was [a] historically high [number],” she says and laughs. Today, the pass ratio is two-thirds to one-third men to women, representing a significant improvement in women’s participation in MOFA. Strong negative stereotypes about the gender gap in Japan persist outside the country, however,

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THE JOURNAL The second year of WAW! WAW! of year The second will occur inevitably. The point The point will occur inevitably. change. a ‘good’ about bring to is take roles should women More positions.” in decision-making sense that is my Like Matsukawa, way one Japan, to coming is change another. or is office which Matsukawa’s Tokyo, will in late take place overseeing, n Indeed, “[Japan’s] changing already because men don’t don’t because men already changing “[Japan’s] Indeed, August. While last year’s conference was career-oriented, career-oriented, was conference year’s last While August. as topics such with inclusive, more are themes this year’s women’s education, mothers, girl’s of single the difficulties science—even and women and in peace security, and roles will will be men And added. students college with a table the of 30 percent up make Matsukawa For participants. this year’s others, and will really be gathering all. for “WAW” to [one in which] men and women work together more more together work women and which] in men [one to talking about We’re productivity. greater withand efficiently to foreigners [and] disabled, the elderly, for life of a quality the for model Japan’s That’s their living. sustain and safe feel life].” quality of improved phase—[an next Matsukawa they as used to,” now money earn much as or does something the government “Whether explains. women more that demands economy the Japanese not, So it. change sustain to in order market the labor enter it. knowing each other, models for sometimes without even role as serve can Women “That was fine when we had an expanding an expanding had we when “That fine was For positive change to occur, the whole population has to to has population the whole occur, to change positive For What’s the solution? “We have to change this work–life this work–life change to have “We the solution? What’s Indeed, while 70 percent of Japanese women work in in work women Japanese of while 70 percent Indeed, In Matsukawa’s case, she never thought about the career– about thought never case, she Matsukawa’s In In Japan, women do the heavy the do heavy women Japan, In With a family and a profession, Matsukawa, unlike many unlike many Matsukawa, a profession, and a family With behind the past model: the man working crazily crazily working model:behind the the man past the family. support to night at late until the model now, change to have We economy. flexible work hours, as do [many] women. It’s probably probably It’s women. as do [many] hours, work flexible she adds. priority,” top Abe’s Minister Prime the change to want believes. “We part, Matsukawa its play in a shorter productive Being style. more working leave to have We women. about just not time is of reasons, including inflexible employee contracts and and the contracts employee inflexible including reasons, of will work overtime. the women expectation that women, harmful to only not “It’s says. Matsukawa balance,” are men Japanese more and more also [Indeed], men. but which parents, elderly of their faced takingwith care [often] reasonable, more require [may] men [some] that means either full-time or part-time jobs (after just over a year of the year a over just full-time part-timeeither (after jobs or newly entered women a million around administration, Abe for account roles in leadership women market), the labor those to seeking especially comes when it a smaller ratio, number a for is This life. a family both and full-time careers family life dichotomy. “You can do both, my mother did it,” did it,” mother do both, my can “You dichotomy. life family been has without life her mean this does not But says. she or “is confesses, whether she “Thechallenges. difficult part,” aiming you are means, career’—this choose a ‘super you not in the job continue to going just you are or beto a director, the top].” for aiming [without do in many parts of the world. the world. parts of do in many to related responsibilities The fall exclusively almost childrearing a full-time career, also have you If lap. the woman’s into jobs: do two to having means does, that as Matsukawa not. one one paid, [at MOFA] because I’m a woman,” she she a woman,” because I’m [at MOFA] comes the disadvantage Where says. in the balance betweenis the private a common which is space, public and women. Japanese most experience for as they life, in family lifting Management,” “Change with Men,” and “The and Difficulties Men,” with “Change Management,” name to the World,” throughout Women by Shared only three. a relatively enjoyed has elsewhere, and in Japan women being mistreated I’m like feel never “I career. trouble-free and women’s representation in political and business business in political and representation women’s and a just this not is But poor. remains in the nation leadership the explains That deeper. and broader is it game; numbers Life “Work choices: 2015 topic Tokyo WAW! upcoming FOOD for SPIES Creole and Cajun in Osaka

By Tim Maughan

C.C Haydel III, owner of Bistro New Orleans

Foreign-run restaurants in Japan are not a new phenomenon, but Haydel explains that onions, peppers, and other ingredients are customers would be struggling to find an eatery with a commitment to added to the gumbo. “It is pretty detail like Osaka’s Bistro New Orleans—a restaurant where the culinary much a complete meal,” he adds. Other exotica are also on offer, such intricacies and interiors seem to add up to more than the sum of their as red beans and rice, Creole stuffed parts. And while industrial espionage is the sort of term reserved for peppers, and red velvet bread pudding. The food can be washed down with machinations within big business, C.C Haydel III, owner of Bistro New a variety of drinks, including the Orleans, can identify a spy on his premises when he sees one. They are “Hurricane”—a beverage described by Haydel as “rum, more rum, and a fruit staff from Japanese restaurant chains, ostensibly visiting his place as punch mixture.” regular customers, yet, in reality, sent by their bosses to scout for new HOMEMADE FUSION recipes and culinary ideas. Cajun food, Haydel explains, originated in rural Canada. He calls it a “rustic” type of food, typically served as Haydel, who was raised in New Orleans and launched hearty, one-pot meals. Creole, though, which has European his Osaka business in 2012, can easily spot the spies. But he roots, is considered more urbane, and is characterized by a does not mind their presence: he has authentic Cajun and greater variety of sauces. Both food types became staples in Creole cookery flowing in his blood, and the competition New Orleans. would be hard-pressed to pass off their food as the real This is a highly idiosyncratic business, one where the small thing. Bistro New Orleans’ offerings are a type where the details matter. It is not every day that you come across gumbo devil is in the detail, and where attention must be paid to in Japan, nor is it often that you see a muffaletta sandwich—a every intricacy, in order to create the genuine Louisiana savory snack available in the restaurant, crammed with salami experience. “This is a Creole gumbo (soup), so it’s got a and olive salad. Haydel’s friends in Louisiana send him various number of different things going on: sausage and crab; it is spices, which he adds to his French fries. All the other raw also served with shrimp,” Haydel says, as he stirs a large pot materials he can buy from Japanese wholesalers. on the stove. “I definitely need green bell peppers, which are sweet, and “There is chicken in it, too. One of the best descriptions I western celery,” he says. “The ingredients that most of these have heard of gumbo is that if all soups were cars, gumbo is dishes start with are onion, celery, and green peppers. I use a Rolls Royce. Not a Ferrari, not a Lamborghini. white rice, but American-style long grain rice is not really “My gumbo has okra in it. Interestingly enough, okra is available here, not even medium grain is available.” an African vegetable that came to New Orleans through Basmati and jasmine long grain rice can be bought in Japan, the Caribbean, through Haiti . . . An okra-based gumbo he adds, but “their flavor profile does not match what I need.” has its own unique flavor, which I like. It is a favorite of the There is a degree of pragmatism in his cooking methods. American South.” Short grain rice is used for the gumbo, and, for the dirty rice—

26 THE JOURNAL n JULY 2015 ENTREPRENEUR 27 2015

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THE JOURNAL Musicians regularly perform regularly Musicians called this have never would “I “Warmth and cheer; that is what what cheer; is and that “Warmth his want did not Haydel back New Orleans way. Orleans New back 4 and Orleans—on New Bistro at will there be American an 5 July celebration weekend Independence done a barbeque, will include that A jazz style. Orleans in the New is combination singer–saxophonist a rhythm and 11 July, scheduled for 18 July. set is for night blues and the distinctive as such Memorabilia, feature, an important is fleur-de-lis not careful was Haydel though too, too many with the interior clutter to the Deep He South. artefacts from a corny- avoid also to was careful restaurant. his for name sounding no-frillschose a he name, Thus, what declares which immediately does. the restaurant in the Orleans New Bistro place a like sound it make would it States; It cannot be too glaring, and not be not too glaring, and cannot It because says, he either, too dark, see cannot then the customers they what of details the subtle are eating. have to the atmosphere want we explains. he here,” of the path follow to business restaurants, traditional some or less more are often clients where in put He tables. separate at seated surfaces, eating and raised benches where atmosphere an create to communicate free to feel customers are The benches another. one with enable to positioned strategically stand, simultaneously to people created has talk, He eat. drink, and his encourages that environment an immerse and mingle, to customers laid- in the famously themselves n Pricing, along with ingredients and image, are also important. also important. are image, and ingredients with along Pricing, back home wouldn’t hang me for.” me hang wouldn’t home back too not is it time, at the same but cheap, not is food,he The says, the right of the procurement and detail, to Attention expensive. these, in part, are and overheads, foods do incur substantial it make I can that a told customer once “I prices. in reflected the says Haydel the same,” taste wouldn’t it that but affordable, more a smile. with tourist trap. If you went to a place in Osaka, and they in Osaka, advertised a place and to went you If trap. tourist they would called Circus, and Piccadilly it England, food from folks and too cheesy, wasn’t that a name I wanted there? go you offerings Orleans’ New Bistro “Hurricane” rum punch drink Red velvet bread pudding Red velvet bread is in the devil a type where are intricacy every be paid to must attention and where the detail, “Dirty rice” at Bistro at Bistro rice” “Dirty New Orleans, a mixture a mixture New Orleans, of complexity and spice of complexity When he moved into the property, which is in the city’s in the city’s which is the property, into moved he When Running a foreign restaurant, restaurant, a foreign Running Like many other catering businesses, businesses, catering other Like many refurbishment program in order to recreate the New Orleans Orleans the New recreate to in order program refurbishment the “beautiful” of many that astonished was He world. the by whiteboards with up been had covered windows is Lighting full on display. they are Now owner. previous ambience. the right just create believes, to Haydel important, New Orleans theme, Haydel is faced with the additional faced the is additional with Haydel theme, Orleans New of reminiscent atmosphere look a and creating of challenge his hometown. and the Shinsaibashi of district, the hubbub near Horie a thorough on embarked he areas, entertainment Namba summers have the opposite effect, with the opposite have summers custom. less oftypes different requires moreover, of course, is, thinking. There business the right sourcing of the challenge the restaurant’s given And produce. Bistro New Orleans’ revenue is subject is revenue Orleans’ New Bistro Fall, seasonalto peaks troughs. and sees cool winds, influx an its with and to their way on commuters of Osaka the searing hot But work. from Bistro New Orleans every Orleans week: New Bistro the rest Japanese, is half the clientele a Japanese had “We foreigners. are ago, a year in here come businessman been had he the to that said he and tried had and gumbo. States, United that.” for asked So, he a complex-tasting, spicy dish—Haydel dish—Haydel spicy a complex-tasting, oil, which rice in raw the sautés first whenserved. separate the grains keeps SPIRIT ENTREPRENEURIAL patronize 50 customers some Typically, Creole gumbo, a soup from Louisiana a soup from gumbo, Creole FAITH IN NUMBERS

Halal products draw more Muslim tourists to Japan

By Tom Benner A prayer mat in a bedroom at Hotel Granvia Kyoto

When Rafidah Abd Rahim traveled to Japan from Singapore last DESTINATION NIPPON The number of Muslim travelers to Japan year, the recent college graduate was relieved to find a goodly number is projected to more than triple by 2020. of lifestyle offerings for Muslim travelers, such as halal food—that In 2013, an estimated 300,000 Muslim tourists visited Japan. This figure could is, fare that complies with Islamic dietary guidelines—and easily reach one million by 2020. According available prayer rooms. Rafidah found Sakura House, a Muslim- to CrescentRating, from 2004 to 2013, the number of Muslim visitors grew at friendly share house with separate dorms for females and males on an average rate of 7.2 percent year on different levels, as well as a halal restaurant nearby. And the Tokyo year. The highest growth rate was 47 percent in 2012, followed by 29 percent Camii mosque was within walking distance. She also found a variety in 2013. The next seven-year average of eateries serving halal food. annual growth rate is projected to be 18.7 percent, leading to an expected one million visitor arrivals in 2020. “I was able to broaden my choices,” she says. “Since I was Southeast Asia will remain the key source market for unable to enjoy an authentic ramen [because it sometimes has] Japan, accounting for 65–70 percent of the total number of pork stock, I was able to enjoy a bowl of the vegetarian version.” Muslim visitors. In 2013, the top three source markets were As overall tourism to Japan is on the rise—priority as Tokyo Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore. Bahardeen attributes prepares to host the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games—the this to increasing efforts by the Japanese travel industry to country is getting high marks for its efforts at becoming a halal- cater to the needs of Muslim travelers, in addition to Japan friendly tourism destination. Singapore-based Muslim travel opening up visa-free travel for Indonesians, Malaysians, and authority CrescentRating, identifies countries in Asia that are others members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations working hard to attract tourists from fast-growing economies (ASEAN), a regional organization—with 10 member states and where a growing middle class is traveling to non-Muslim two countries with observer status—set up to promote cultural, destinations. economic, and political development in the region. “Countries like Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea are “Even at one million visitors, it will only represent around really targeting the Southeast Asian market for tourism,” 5 percent of total visitors to Japan. Globally, the Muslim travel says Fazal Bahardeen, CrescentRating’s founder and CEO. Japan market will represent around 13.5 percent in 2020. As such, is at the top of that list of countries boosting its hospitality to the Japan still has huge potential to capture more visitors from this Muslim consumer and lifestyle market, Bahardeen adds. travel segment,” Bahardeen says. Both the private sector and the government are making efforts to develop the sector. More and more cities across Japan are developing services and facilities to attract the segment. FOOD FINANCE CLOTHING TOURISM MEDIA/ PHARMA COSMETICS That is in keeping with a larger trend. $1,088 BN $1,354 BN $224 BN $137 BN RECREATION $70 BN $26 BN CrescentRating’s research finds that 2012 Expenditure 2012 Assets 2012 Expenditure 2012 Expenditure $151 BN 2012 Expenditure 2012 Expenditure non-Muslim destinations are growing 2012 Expenditure fast for Muslim holidaymakers. A rising consumer class from fast-growing economies such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Turkey, and the Arab states of the Persian Gulf is fueling the demand for Source: State of the Global Islamic Muslim-friendly products and services Economy Report 2013

28 THE JOURNAL n JULY 2015 MARKET TRENDS MARKET

FAITH IN across businesses sectors in Asia and around the world. The CrescentRating survey portrays the typical Muslim consumer as NUMBERS young, educated, and with a larger disposable income, which has precipitated an increased propensity to travel. This means travel and hospitality, and its various sub- A “Halal Bento Box” at Hotel Granvia Kyoto sectors, is now one of the biggest markets within the Muslim consumer market. products are prohibited from charging interest). Financial markets outside HALAL CERTIFIED the Islamic world including the UK, Japan’s push to attract the Muslim tourism Hong Kong and Japan are encouraging market is creating business opportunities. investment and savings products compliant TFK Corporation, an airline caterer in with Shariah principles such as sukuk, the Tokyo, is one example of how the travel Islamic equivalent of bonds. industry is paying more attention to the Japan itself is home to some 100,000 growing Muslim market: Last fall, the Muslims, of whom 10 percent are native company acquired certification for its Japanese while the rest are foreign residents halal kitchen, which prepares in-flight of Japan, according to CrescentRating. meals. The company reportedly spent Indeed, the modern history of Islam in some ¥60 million to expand its Narita Japan dates back to the late 19th century, International Airport premises and when contact was made with Indonesians purchase new equipment to meet the who served on British and Dutch ships that growing demand for halal food. docked off the Japanese coast. Later, in the Other examples abound. Signs that 1870s, a translation into Japanese of the declare “halal-certified” can be found in life of Prophet Muhammad greatly helped eateries and dining halls. Hijabs made Islam spread across the country. from local silk can be found in Japanese stores. For shoppers at its branch in the GROWTH AREAS Shinjuku district of Tokyo, the department The world’s Muslim population of 1.6 store Takashimaya has a prayer room billion is growing at twice the rate of the that is equipped with a facility for ritual global average, and is expected to become washing and an arrow pointing in the 26.5 percent of the world’s population direction of Mecca, the holiest city in the by 2030, according to the Pew Research Islamic faith. Fukuoka City, moreover, Center. Given those numbers, the Japan contracted a consultant regarding how to Halal Association is pushing halal- become more halal friendly. friendliness as a good business strategy. By tapping into the growing Muslim “The halal industry does not benefit tourist market, Japan hopes to diversify only Muslims,” the association says on a tourism industry that has been long its website. dependent on Chinese, Taiwanese, and Bilal Atalay, a spokesman for the Tokyo South Korean tourists. In May 2014, Camii and Turkish Culture Center, saw the global market for halal products a marked increase in Muslim tourists and other services—including food, following Japan’s changing of visa cosmetics, travel and tourism, financial regulations for some ASEAN member products such as Shariah-compliant bank states such as Malaysia and Indonesia. cards—was estimated to be $1.62 trillion, Atalay says the sector is still growing, and is expected to reach $2.47 trillion by with halal certification organizations 2018, according to growth strategy and and businesses racing to meet demand. research advisory DinarStandard and A combination of halal-friendly products Thomson Reuters. and services and omotenashi (traditional Credit card giants MasterCard and Japanese hospitality), he says, is beginning Visa are vying for a piece of the action, to emerge, offering exciting culinary and offering Shariah-compliant, interest-free other options to a new wave of visitors debit cards (Shariah-compliant financial to Japan. n

COPYRIGHT CRESCENTRATING THE JOURNAL n JULY 2015 29 Yomiuri IS Leveraging Newspaper Inserts, Expanding Business with Global Firms

CEO of Yomiuri IS, Susumu Sasaki

usumu Sasaki, Yomiuri IS executive president and CEO, The inserts were first added to newspapers in the 1920s, Sis on a business quest: introducing the traditional in line with the development of home delivery services, Japanese advertising medium of newspaper inserts as a following the rapid diffusion of newspapers at the start of marketing solution for international companies operating the Meiji era in 1868. Anyone who has seen the inserts will in Japan. realize that they often differ from the paper itself in size, Perhaps hardly known to Western readers, newspaper color or paper type and, because of this, offer advertisers a inserts remain an essential communication strategy in distinctive medium through which to market their products. modern-day Japan, and Yomiuri IS maintains the leading Newspaper circulation in Japan remains high, and that makes position in the field. inserts an effective advertising tool. The inserts are added to newspapers immediately prior “Newspaper inserts are unique to Japan; I don’t believe to delivery, and are not the special sections often seen in they exist in the US or Europe,” Sasaki says. “Thanks to the weekend newspapers in the English-speaking world. rise of newspaper home delivery systems, it is now possible Inserts started life as circulars distributed door-to-door to reach approximately 40 million households, or 70 to 80 in the Edo period in 17th century Japan, even before percent of all Japanese families in their living rooms, in just newspapers were printed. The first notable example of this two to three hours each morning.” form of advertising is said to have been distributed as long Yomiuri IS offers an exclusive platform of integrated ago as 1683 by Echigoya—the predecessor of modern-day lifestyle communication that Sasaki is confident cannot be Mitsukoshi department store. duplicated by competitors that concentrate on existing mass-media approaches to consumers. “We aim to offer a new consumer- oriented communication service that is different to that of our competitors,” Sasaki says. “I really believe we are the only company that can offer this type of service.” Yomiuri IS aspires to understand the perspective of its female audience, including the housewives that control the household budget, by offering information from local businesses, such as supermarkets, cram schools for children, and real estate agents. In 2006, the company launched “Women, insight into the Essence” (WisE), a dedicated

Newspaper inserts come in a variety of unique shapes and designs. SPONSORED CONTENT n If there is one thing that can be said of most locales in [business-to-consumer in involved are you “If solutions], “The photo moves when viewed with a mobile phone, Sasaki and his staff of approximately 400 people have also For example, the characteristicfeature of one area may Mobile phones are playing a larger role in ad campaigns customer is unlikely to reside. Japan, it is that they are facing an aging population. Forecasts for a lower overall Japanese population in the future, and the likelihood of shrinking markets, mean the way forward is companies, international with involvement deeper through Sasaki believes. this end, To Yomiuri IS is looking to work with business-to-consumer-type in companies involved solutions where newspaper inserts can be optimized. Yomiuri IS is the best partner Sasaki for you,” says. “We can offer inroadsto 40 million of Japan’s 50 million households the households in on information granular maintain and 180,000 townships throughout the country. Bring us your marketing challenges, and we will offer you solutions.” aimed at younger people, and Sasaki points to a magazine ad placed by Uniqlo that uses augmented reality, a image an on information digital overlays that technology viewed with a device such as cellphone. a and this initiative has developed a really good reputation,” he says. “Strategically combining inserts with the Internet or smartphones can help our clients effectively solve their challenges.” communications capitalized on scientific techniques to develop a specialized a create to data census national mines database that targeting tool. By taking each of Japan’s 180,000 townships and using generally available zip codes, Yomiuri IS has broken down zip code areas by demographic characteristics referred to as “Resident Characters.” be described as residential in nature, on a railway line with good commuting access to central and Tokyo, comprising a high ratio of single-person households. the Or, feature of another might be a high ratio of residents of 50 years of age and above, and couples living in large single-family homes in suburbs with numerous family-based households. This allows retailers to promote products and services that target specific consumer needs in a given area, and extract sales potential without unnecessary efforts in areas where the target

3-9-1 Nihonbashi-Ningyocho, Nihonbashi-Ningyocho, 3-9-1 Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0013 www.yomiuri-is.co.jp/en

� � Yomiuri IS now helps advertisers expand market share for out “watch TV-based to recommendations particular, In Yomiuri IS deals with some of the biggestnames in the WisE employs an extensive marketing database and “One of our major sales points is that we understand Data is also gathered from analysis of products, media advertisers, Sasaki says. “It is possible to boost response rates by a multipleof two or three when employing mixed media compared to cases where each medium is used in isolation,” he explains. In a further move toward developing hybrid solutions, Sasaki also highlights how Yomiuri IS is reaping the and magazines. phones mobile interaction of the benefitsof through mixed-media solutions, such as tie-ups between tie-ups as such solutions, mixed-media through direct marketing using flyers and or the TV, Internet, including smartphones. tomorrow’s newspaper inserts” have boosted sales for many company to provide them with strategic inroads into the Japanese consumer market. Among the direct marketing solutions being offered are the design and management performance product company and indicators, and key of branding that go beyond the original role of newspaper inserts as community-basedmedia offering mainly lifestyle information. consumer and retail business, such as the mass merchandiser Yamada Denki, apparel specialty store operator Uniqlo, a major retailer, as well as Nitori and IKEA, both interior design companies. These businesses, in turn, are seeking more granular marketing solutions, and look to Sasaki’s Yomiuri IS has developed a Life Course Marketing Model that applies this data in marketing activities from concept creation to target customer touch points. female purchasing psychology better than any other advertising company in Japan,” Sasaki says. reactions of demographic sectors to the market. and advertising. As such, WisE data makes it possible to scrutinize the market from the standpoint of the consumer, and is not merely a tool for product- or company-driven market research. research group designed to analyze specific insights of Japanese women. The group conducts large-scale surveys of women in age to 69 the group, 15 and categorizes the female market according to the “life course” group Japan Is a Marathon Not a Sprint SPONSORED CONTENT SPONSORED By Dr. Greg Story President, Dale Carnegie Training Japan

here are specific work rhythms for Japan. Spring is surfaces amongst the exhausted. Yet we expect results, T hopeless because of kafunsho (allergies) killing our innovation, creativity, high work productivity, and concentration. May is no good because of gogatusbyo happy staff. (May miasma). Everyone is adjusting to the start of the new How many foreign bosses adjust their high-powered financial year in April and many are struggling with their new expectations and allow for the different rhythms here? environments and situations. Also, after the Golden Week Probably zero. In a globally connected 24/7 world, there break, people are exhausted from the crowded travel and is no tolerance for differences in rhythms. So, like our from all the family activities which take place during that predecessors over the past 200 years, we try and “hustle time. Summer is also bad because the heat makes us feel the East.” We meet with pretty much the same degree natsubate (drowsy). of success, too—basically, none! Of course we also have tsuyubyo (summer sickness) Rather than hustle the East, why don’t we just make thanks to the endless rain, high humidity, and associated some simple alterations to our work style and introduce joint pain. The Obon season is no better: you have to travel a different work culture. Do you have strict policies on back to your hometown to worship at the ancestors’ graves, working overtime? In many companies it is just worked, the roads are clogged, and the railways packed. Recently, whether it is needed or not, because that is how you we have added a new one—akibate (fall drowsiness)—to improve your monthly take-home pay situation. Pre- our woes. Subsequently, the long, dark days of winter can approval systems for working overtime control long be seriously depressing and the bitter cold seeps into your hours pretty effectively. bones, tiring you out every day. What about having more flexible work hours so that more There are also the rhythms of the day. We need to stay can start earlier or later and miss the crush during peak up really late watching mindless television or fixated on times? Typical Japanese company rulebooks say everyone our device’s screen. We have to get insufficient sleep, drag has to take lunch between noon and 1.00pm. Why? Change ourselves out of bed at the last moment, and rush around that, and we can all get into our favorite restaurants in a panic to make the last possible train to get us to work more easily. on time. In Japan, 92 percent of people start work after Get the company seniors to take some ownership of the 8.00am, so rush-hour trains are incredibly packed, hence the culture change and have them leave work much earlier. torturous and exhausting commute. The mantra must be productivity is valued above blunt We also tend to stay at work until really late, waiting for loyalty, simply demonstrated through working long hours. the boss to leave, or go out drinking with work colleagues. In Encourage the team to take (shock, horror), two or three the latter case, we stagger home and add to the excitement weeks leave in a row, so they can get some well-deserved of re-enacting yesterday but now with a hangover. The rest and refresh themselves. afternoon is hard slog because we are so sleepy after lunch. Counsel the team about the importance of getting Japanese do work long hours and 16 percent of workers enough sleep, to rest before they get tired, and to take here never take a day off. Of those working sixty hours a breaks at work, so that they are fresher and, therefore, less week or more, 27 percent never take any days off. likely to make mistakes through tiredness. Remind them It is hard to be an idea genius when you are tired that the fresher team will beat the tired team, and so let’s every single day of your work life. Innovation rarely change the dynamic at work and win. n SPONSORED CONTENT The MBA— Tool or Trophy?

� www.randstad.co.jp

ver the past 10 years, there has been a clear shift in competitive academic and hands-on program is specifically Othinking in Japan regarding professional and personal designed to produce competent, commercial-minded general development. The self-help industry has made a particularly manager-level candidates for the J. League. rapid influx here, evidenced by bookstores filled with advice Undeniably, one of the key motives for those who enrol from American writers such as Robert Kiyosaki and Jack in an MBA program is increased upward mobility, part of Canfield, and local Japanese self-help guru Ken Honda. which is driven by the potential to receive a higher salary Their reflections on themes such as leadership, globalization, package—MBA holders on average are paid 15–20 percent work–life balance, and financial independence quickly struck more than colleagues in the same role but without the degree. a cord with Japanese workers in their 30s and 40s hungry for Increasingly, line managers include the MBA as a highly personal growth and improved lifestyles. The popularity of preferred qualification in job descriptions, meaning that the this genre also helped increase awareness, among Japanese MBA holder has an advantage over other applicants at the business professionals, concerning a Western invention, screening process. namely, the Master of Business Administration (MBA). The latest data from the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Several well-known Japanese universities launched flexible Labour shows that there are 1.2 jobs per job seeker. This programs aimed at working professionals and offered classes ratio increases significantly when the skill sets considered in the evenings and/or on weekends under the generic names include experience, leadership ability, specialty knowledge, Executive MBA or Weekend MBA. Foreign universities, language expertise, and certifications. Add an MBA to these meanwhile, tapped into the trend and either entered into qualities and a candidate can expect multiple job offers. partnerships with Japanese universities, or set up satellite Furthermore, experienced recruitment professionals are well campuses in the major population centers of Tokyo and Osaka. aware of the leverage that an MBA provides at the contract Some programs promote globalization, with classes offered in negotiation stage. English by professors who are native speakers of the language, However, the MBA is not an automatic ticket to the corner while others offer a curriculum in Japanese—following Western office. As with the items in a toolbox, a user’s effectiveness is pedagogy rooted in case study analysis, discussion, and critical judged according to the tool’s use. It is common to see MBA thinking—which culminates in collaborative presentations. holders wave around their degree as a status symbol, in an The popularity of the MBA in Japan continues to grow, attempt to differentiate themselves from non-MBA holders. with an increasing number of Japanese and foreign universities Some go as far as to list the MBA credential on their business launching hybrid programs, which allow for a combination cards, to underscore their status. Others will quietly apply the of both virtual and face-to-face participation. The increasing valuable lessons learned in acquiring the qualification. flexibility and variety of these programs have made them Regardless of whether the distinction is worn proudly on accessible outside the major urban centers and across the sleeve or kept filed away on a bookshelf, the thought- demographics, extending their reach to young, aspiring effective processes and behavior that an MBA course of workers and seasoned professionals alike. study can foster is key to leveraging the degree for success. Riding the wave of personal development, in May this year MBA graduates research and analyze; they make strategic Ritsumeikan University in Kyoto partnered with the Japan proposals; they take leadership on necessary actions; they Professional Football League (J. League) to launch an innovative collaborate well with stakeholders; they pivot where required; program, designed specifically to train future professional and, they focus on the most crucial proof of the MBA sports general managers. While not an accredited MBA, the concept—delivering results. n BUSINESS INDEX | JULY 2015

Career Development & MBAs

Business Index—a monthly printed and digital industry company listing—can help with choosing the right fit for continuing education, corporate training, and much more!

journal.accj.or.jp/businessindex

As an international campus The McGill MBA Japan The flexible curriculum representing more than 30 program brings together of our Fox Global EMBA nationalities, Lakeland College the best students from Japan allows you to pursue your Japan offers a distinctive and abroad to develop their MBA while you work. Our American undergraduate career and organizations MBA administration team program in a unique Japanese/ by studying the latest in Tokyo will ensure your international setting. in management theory MBA experience in Japan —Dr. Alan Brender, associate dean and practice. is unparalleled. —Philip O'Neill, director —Mikiya Mori, director

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34 THE JOURNAL n JULY 2015 Lakeland College Japan (LCJ) is a fully accredited two-year American branch campus conveniently located in Shinjuku. Want to improve your business skills? Students can earn an Associate of Join JMEC, a unique business training program, & win prizes! Arts degree in Tokyo recognized • Learn about doing business in Japan by both American and Japanese from local business leaders & experts accrediting agencies. • Build your business planning skills through Our program allows students to easily transfer as third-year hands-on experience writing a business students to competitive universities in America and around plan for real companies the world that they may not have been eligible to enter • Join other talented participants to build directly after high school. and expand your network • Small Class Sizes • Build skills in marketing, research, • Multicultural Student Body finance, & team communication • Accredited Academic Program Supported by 18 Chambers of Commerce, JMEC has provided this • Continuing Education unique English language business program since 1993. LCJ’s Open College courses include: International Negotiations, Exploration of the Japanese Mindset, Language (Korean, Japanese, Attend an information sessions on Aug. 27, Sept. 2, 10, 16, 30, or Oct. 8 and Chinese), Web Design, Aging Issues, Comparative Art and Application Deadline: October 15, 2015 Cost: JPY125,000 many more. We oer evening, Saturday, and one-day workshops for busy people. BUSINESS INDEX | JULY 2015

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36 THE JOURNAL n JULY 2015 SPONSORED CONTENT ts rs ialis ec ne rt Pa alent Sp T

n Chain Icon ly pp Wending our way up through I was honored to be given the icon-partners.com support vehicle for this year’s ride, from May 20 to May 23, through my company Icon Partners K. K. which, together with sponsors, private corporate and other project. the to cash donations made gave Prefectures Miyagi and Fukushima us an excellent first-hand view of the devastation, the shocking of extent recovery from which will take decades, not years. The scenery on the way is stunning, yet descending to the coastal plains gives way to vast, flat, dust-blown construction sites, miles wide as one awe is It zones. inundation the enters inspiring and humbling to witness, and all of us on the quest silently renewed our resolve to keep helping the people of the northeast to resume their lives with dignity. Su to children in the areaof Minamisanriku, which was utterly devastated by the 2011 tsunami. opportunity to sponsor and drive the �

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Thank you. Thank and contribute — O. G.O. A. for Aid Angela Ortiz (right), director of Angela Ortiz (right), director In partnership with the charity O.G.A. Naturally, I am not alone in this Co-founded by Robert Williams, aimed at teaching basic farming skills group emerged out ofthe Brits at Lunch networking group and in 2012, today has grown into a multinational group of executive cyclists united in their passion for cycling and the desire to help people in need through their activities. for Aid, led by Director of Administration Angela Ortiz, the group has now raised millionover for ¥13 on-going support in Tohoku. The theme of this year’s ride, which has raised over ¥6 million so far, was to fund a project “Placeto Grow,” sentiment, and one group of people who have for the past three years been action veryconverting sympathy into effectively is the executive cycling team Knights in White Lycra (KIWL). partner at A.P. Advisers Ltd., and John supply management chain Stanton, multinational large a director at the of nucleus the Tokyo, corporation in member Ayumi Nagai, on a refueling stop Nagai, on a refueling member Ayumi www.ogaforaid.org in any way you can. I have seen the work that is being done, and can assure you a pennythat not is wasted. If you, like me, love Japan and want to help in a small then way, please visit the home page of administration, O.G.A. for Aid, and Peleton

the March Great East 2011 Japan hen the initial violent shaking of Not so for the people of For all of us here on that it day, With many mobile networks across involved in the relief work, but about anyone whether worried was planning for the long term support effort that would be needed at a grass roots level. Tohoku. I remember at the time overwhelming an feeling sense of tragedy, especially for the children who had lost parents. I gave what money I could spare at the time to charities became very clear that there would be no getting back to normal any time soon. fourYet, years many later, of us in Tokyo have overcome the trauma, made up for the lost time, and carried on with making living. a of the most powerful tsunamis to hit Japan in a thousand years. The image of the front edge of the tsunami sweeping inexorably homes, over businesses and trapped people will stay with me forever. the country jammed and inoperable, we turned to the web for news, and witnessed live on Internet TV the harrowing scenes of the Tohoku one by inundated coastline being Earthquake had subsided, my staff and I emerged from under our desks in Tokyo, donned our hard hats, got back to our computers, and tried to carry on as usual. Over the ensuing minutes and hours, the full horror unfolded before our eyes. W By Jeremy Sanderson, CEO, Icon Partners K.K. Sanderson, CEO, Icon Partners By Jeremy Pedaling for life in Tohoku: life for Pedaling in 4 days 500 kilometers International Best Practices. Local Expertise.

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TOKYO HONG KONG SHANGHAI SINGAPORE CONTENTS VOL. 52, ISSUE 7

1

41 PRESIDENT Maintaining the Momentum Jay Ponazecki

42 FCIJ REPORT Companies Indicate Optimism Amid Economic Recovery

43 CHUBU Walk the Talk Jeff Genet, Chair/2015 Chubu Walkathon Committee and Chris Zarodkiewicz

44 JMEC AWARDS Where Talent Meets Passion 2 45 ACCJ ENTREPRENEUR Japan’s Silicon Valley—Laying the Foundation for Risk-Takers Patricia Bader-Johnston, Thomas R. Shockley, Tim Crowley

46 ACCJ EVENT “Japan’s Last Optimist” ACCJ Staff

47 EVENTS The ACCJ in pictures

49 FOURTH OF JULY Ambassador’s message

3 52 BOOK REVIEW “Whisper of the Land: Visions of Japan” 1 ACCJ Vice President Eric Sedlak, left, and ACCJ Chubu Vicki L. Beyer Advisor Harry Hill at the Chubu Walkathon.

ACCJ LEADER 2 Dr. Greg Story of Dale Carnegie Training Japan, left, and Sean Gallagher, 54 Chairman of the Independent Business Committee, Chubu, at International The Health Policy White Paper— Design Center Nagoya on May 29. (Photo by Andy Boone) a Work in Progress 3 The ACCJ–EBC health policy white paper press conference at the Tokyo American Club. William Bishop

facebook.com/The.ACCJ twitter.com/AmChamJapan youtube.com/user/AmChamJapan linkedin.com/company/ american-chamber-of-commerce-in-japan

THE JOURNAL n JULY 2015 39

Maintaining PRESIDENT the Momentum Jay Ponazecki [email protected]

ongratulations to everyone who made the 2015 into measureable results? The Summit answered these American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) questions by providing practical, solutions-based C Women in Business (WIB) Summit a resounding success recommendations, and by sharing tested best practices on with keynote speeches by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, U.S. how to advance the role of Japanese women in the workplace Ambassador to Japan Caroline Kennedy, and Kathy Matsui through the key phases of their careers. of Goldman Sachs. The event included a panel discussion with Hosting the Summit was very important, but what CEOs who are male champions of change and eight break-out happens next is even more important. This action-oriented sessions that had over 700 attendees. momentum has to be maintained beyond June 29 to ensure In addition to Mari Matthews and Margaret Cowle, who that real changes continue to be made. It is a critical time for did a fantastic job co-chairing the WIB leadership team that action; so let’s stay focused on being agents of change—as organized the Summit, I wish to thank all the ACCJ member individuals and as companies. companies that generously sponsored the Summit, and all the In this spirit, the WIB Committee is working very hard on individual ACCJ members who generously contributed their its first white paper, setting forth practical, solutions-based invaluable time and energy to this event. recommendations to help private and public sector entities The Summit showcased all the resources, talent, and get as close as they can to 30 percent by 2020. By launching expertise that we have within our membership. The ACCJ this white paper after the Summit, we hope to include Office also provided excellent support. additional advocacy themes that resulted from the Summit Since last year’s WIB Summit, it has been encouraging and to reinvigorate and reinforce this positive momentum. to hear about private and public sector initiatives aimed at having women in 30 percent of all management positions ENTRANCE FEE WAIVER CAMPAIGN in Japan by 2020, and to see more career women being Our membership goals include having women represent at portrayed in Japanese advertising, television programming, least 30 percent of ACCJ members before 2020. Currently, and other media. 26.4 percent of our members are women. To help achieve For example, a bill has been submitted to the Japanese Diet this goal, the ACCJ Board of Governors approved an mandating preferential access to government procurement entrance fee waiver campaign. The ¥15,000 entrance fee for firms that actively promote women. As of March 2015, for a new ACCJ member will be waived in the case of any Japanese companies must specify the percentage of women new member application received between June 29 and in executive posts in their annual securities reports. These August 31, 2015, for any woman, whether or not she are all steps in the right direction. attended the Summit, and for any man who attended Many, however, are still asking fundamental questions: the Summit. Please take, and encourage others to take, How do we get to 30 percent? How do we convert strategies advantage of this campaign. n

TOO BUSY TO ATTEND AN EVENT? To offer greater benefits to you, our valued ACCJ members, the ACCJ is offering LIVE STREAMING VIDEOS of some events at no cost. Please go to the following URL and login with your member number and password to participate: http://accj.or.jp/en/events/live-streaming-events. Feel free to email [email protected] if you need your login information.

LIVE THIS MONTH:

JULY 9, 12:50pm ACCJ Person of the Year Award Ceremony for Yokohama Mayor Fumiko Hayashi

THE JOURNAL n JULY 2015 41 FCIJ REPORT Companies Indicate Optimism Amid Economic Recovery

Custom Media

TOTAL FOR SURVEY Response Number Percent esults of the 27th Business Confidence Survey of the

Foreign Chambers of Commerce in Japan (FCIJ) have Growth 244 78% R been released. Fifteen chambers of commerce and business organizations, including the American Chamber Sustain current 58 18% of Commerce in Japan, took part in the poll, conducted between April 14 and 24. Downsizing 6 2 % The results of the survey are both interesting and Consider withdrawal % encouraging, with respondents indicating improved 6 2 overall confidence in the Japanese economy compared with Total number of responses: 314 0 25 50 75 the last survey, in October 2014. This optimism is expected to continue over the coming six months, ahead of the next Over two-thirds of respondents forecast growth. survey in October. Respondents reported that business performance and foreign firms” and 18 percent “Change labor relations sales had improved since the previous survey, fuelling between workers & firms.” a sense of optimism regarding the strategies of foreign- The second question asked what would be an optimal affiliated businesses in Japan. exchange rate for Japanese and foreign companies. For the Two alternating questions yen/dollar, the average response was 109.6, at a time when were included in the survey. the actual rate was 119.2–120.3. With respect to the yen/ The first was regarding the euro, the average response was 124.9. The results of need for structural reform in Regarding their performance in Japan over the coming six the survey are Japan, where “Make Japanese months, 76 percent of North American companies forecast economy more competitive” growth, while 22 percent predicted that they would sustain both interesting was selected by 30 percent their current level. and encouraging of the respondents, while With regard to profitability, 11 percent of the respondents 20 percent chose “Change reported showing “Strong improvement,” 46 percent “Some regulations for domestic & improvement,” and 30 percent “No change” in the half- year preceding the April poll. Meanwhile, 15 percent showed “Some decline” and COMPARED TO PREVIOUS SURVEYS 2 percent said they had experienced a “Serious decline.” 90% When asked to describe “Reasons behind 80% the changes in business performance,” 70% 52 percent credited their “Own efforts,”

60% while “Exchange rates,” “Other,” and

50% Abenomics were mentioned by 16, 11 and 8 percent of the respondents, respectively. 40% The FCIJ, an informal organization 30% with roots going back to the mid-1980s, 20% conducted its first Business Confidence 10% survey in April 2002. The association’s n 0% next poll will be in the fall.

02/1 02/2 03/1 03/2 04/1 04/2 05/1 05/2 06/1 06/2 07/1 07/2 08/1 08/2 09/1 09/2 10/1 10/2 11/1 11/2 12/1 12/2 13/1 13/2 14/1 14/2 15/1 For the full report, with additional commentaries, visit: Growth Sustain current Downsizing Consider withdrawal http://www.fcc.or.jp/fcij/bcs.html

42 THE JOURNAL n JULY 2015 CHUBU Walk the Talk Giving Back to the Community, One Step at a Time

By Jeff Genet, Chair/2015 Chubu Walkathon Committee and Chris Zarodkiewicz

n May 17, great weather, delicious food, awe-inspiring contributions. Without their support, the walkathon would music, and fun events, as well as incredible prizes and not have been possible. Ofantastic people made the 24th Chubu Walkathon A hit with everyone on the day, especially given the great International Charity Festival an event to remember. weather, was the dunk tank. With over 300 dunks, including An annual gathering organized in the central region of the of local leaders, it will be long remembered. In addition to the country by the local and international community, including dunks and the walk, there was a special performance by local the Chubu Chapter of the American Chamber of Commerce pop idols OSU, who were the official “PR Ambassador” of in Japan (ACCJ) and the Nagoya International School the event. And incredible ambassadors they were; they sang, (NIS), the Chubu Walkathon has raised over ¥123 million danced, greeted, and met with the crowds all day. Indeed, ($1 million) for charities in its 24 year history. a variety of local talent took to the stage, from oldies to Highlights of the day include an invigorating walk newbies to originals; the crowd hummed, sang, and danced organized by students from the NIS. With eight stations of along with every tune played. trivia, challenges, and games, not to mention a number of This year also saw a superb array of prizes on offer: a trip prizes to be won, the walk was great fun that was enjoyed to Guam or Hawaii, a private helicopter tour of Nagoya, by all members of the Chubu family—including leaders such prizes from Shop Japan, and an Apple Watch courtesy of as President and CEO of Oak Lawn Marketing, Inc. (Shop IMRA. But, of course, the Chubu Walkathon is carried out Japan) Harry A. Hill, NIS Head of School Matthew Parr, with one aim in mind: supporting the charities that help ACCJ President Jay Ponazecki, and ACCJ Vice President truly worthy causes in the region. Chris Zarodkiewicz. Following this year’s success, the chapter is already laying A word of thanks must be extended to all the sponsors, down plans for next year’s event: the 25th Annual Chubu not forgetting Kondo Sanko Co., Ltd., The Boeing Walkathon. To kick things off, a “25 in 25” initiative will be Company, and IMRA America, Inc. We also wish to thank launched with an aim to increase the amount of money raised the many volunteers, vendors, band members, charities, to ¥25 million. We are excited by this challenge, and eagerly and participants at the event for all of their generous anticipate generous support and contributions from our fellow ACCJ members, supporters, and well-wishers.

PHOTOS: ANDY BOONE For more information on the Chubu Walkathon, please visit us online The Chubu Walkathon is carried out with http://en.chubuwalkathon.com/ n one aim in mind: supporting the charities

that help truly worthy causes in the region. Jeff Genet, Community Service Committee-Chubu, and Chris Zarodkiewicz, vice president-Chubu. PHOTOS: ANDY BOONE Co-organizer NIS Head of School Matthew Parr, center, and Director Opening ceremony with the ACCJ board members, top sponsors, of Admissions and Development Erik Olson-Kikuchi lead the walk. the official PR Ambassador OSU, and the official Mascot Walkie the Walrus

THE JOURNAL n JULY 2015 43 JMEC AWARDS

Where Talent Meets Passion

Custom Media

This year‘s winners, Team Galileo, including Andrew Scott, second from left

n June 11, The Japan Market Expansion Competition What did you learn from JMEC? (JMEC) brought to a close a five-month process, as part Chan: The JMEC experience gave me the ABCs in doing Oof which 54 individuals from 14 nations were divided business. It also gave me confidence in approaching clients into 12 teams, with a goal to create 12 business plans for and developing my business. companies with real Japan market entry needs. With support from the JMEC community, corporate What do you look for in a good team and business plan? sponsors, as well as 18 chambers of commerce—including Howard: I look for practicality and logic, as well as strong the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ)— market research evidence (and a good, strong marketing the awards ceremony acknowledged the great rivalry and approach) to support each team’s recommended course of awe-inspiring hard work of all participants. action. As a foundational aspect, I also look for neatness For a behind-the-scenes insight into JMEC, The Journal and accuracy, since the real business world does not reward caught up with entrepreneur Debbie Howard, emeritus sloppy work. president, ACCJ, and a judge at this year’s JMEC award and Betsy Rogers, JMEC assistant program director. Rogers: The business plan needs to present a solution to the The Journal also spoke with Andrew Scott, a young statement of work as directed by the Project Client. Their executive in Tokyo and a member Team Galileo, whose research and financials need to support their ideas. As for business plan for Pink GmbH won them this year’s first what is a good business plan, it is a culmination of . . . the prize; and Joice Chan, general manager, BIC Group Ltd., three judges’ feedback. and a JMEC alumna. The judges read each plan three or more times. In addition, they focus and take the lead on one third of the What is it like to be a winner? plans. They score each business plan and also score the Scott: It feels amazing. It’s one of those things that, when you team’s oral presentation of their plan and ideas. The team work as a team to win something, it means more than when with the most points “wins.” I put that in quotation marks you’ve just done it by yourself. Because . . . you have had to because every team wins. overcome some extra barriers, like little disputes [with team In addition, while the top three teams win prizes, such members], and then, at the end of it, you have the prize in as airline tickets, a tablet, or a cool bag, the difference in your hands, together [with your team], it feels amazing. the number of points between the first seven teams is really quite small. n What was the main thing you learnt from this process? Scott: [At JMEC] you learn about other people and how they interact with you. It is [also a] really great To read the full interview, please visit experience as a self-development exercise. The Journal online: journal.accj.or.jp

Do you have any tips for future JMEC participants? For more on JMEC information sessions, starting Chan: As a JMEC alumna with no previous business dates, application deadlines, costs, or a chat with management experience, I suggest future candidates alumni and organizers, please visit JMEC online digest what there is on offer in the lectures, and communicate well with mentors and consultants (www.jmec.gr.jp/) and on Facebook. [as well as] with their own teams.

44 THE JOURNAL n JULY 2015 ACCJ ENTREPRENEUR Japan’s Silicon Valley— Laying the Foundation for Risk-takers

By Patricia Bader-Johnston, founding chair, EMI–TEAJ Thomas R. Shockley, chair, Independent Business Committee, ACCJ Tim Crowley, Economic Section, U.S. Embassy Tokyo

he Entrepreneur Awards Japan (TEAJ) honored innovative represents the risk-embracing spirit of Silicon Valley.” Minami has and promising Japanese and international entrepreneurs expanded the company to more than 500 employees since it was T again this year, at a ceremony hosted on April 27 by Swedish launched in 2009, and has laid down plans for future growth. Ambassador to Japan Magnus Robach. Now in its fifth year, TEAJ BizReach operates an online career networking service that celebrates the endeavors of a thriving, and changing entrepreneur allows professionals to share and connect with talent-seeking community in Japan. In 2010, its inaugural year, Japanese made up companies. The idea for the company originated with Minami’s less than 30 percent of all TEAJ applicants, only two of whom were experience during his own job search, when he was surprised women. This year, Japanese nationals accounted for over 70 percent at the lack of transparency in the Japanese employment market. of applicants, with an even gender mix—an impressive change. He was fascinated by the idea of leveraging technology to open Since its creation, TEAJ’s goal has been up more opportunities for both employers to hold an annual event that honors the top and employees. innovators and entrepreneurs of the year, Through the BizReach platform, job seekers selected through participating business can share their professional information directly competitions, in order to provide both with companies, helping to transform not only greater momentum and support for the traditional behaviors around the employment whole community, as well as a superb search, but also allowing companies the ability networking opportunity. Since its founding, to better match existing open positions to TEAJ and the American Chamber of applicants with the relevant skill set, ultimately Commerce in Japan’s (ACCJ’s) Entrepreneur benefiting both the employee and the employer. Mentoring Initiative (EMI) programs The company continues to work on its goal of have helped provide increased resources increasing the transparency and efficiency of the to talented individuals, who are the force BizReach founder Soichiro Minami employment market, recently having announced behind many new emerging ventures. receiving the U.S. Business Award plans to launch Stanby, a free service—derived Although the entrepreneurial ecosystem from a cloud-based recruiting management in Japan is expanding, and opportunities for talented individuals platform—that aims to aggregate online job listings in Japan and to launch new emerging ventures are on the rise, it is still a supplement them with information from offline job postings. challenge to be an entrepreneur here. Ups and downs—and even Throughout the coming year, Minami will be included in failures—remain along the road to a successful business venture. Embassy networking events and targeted economy-related activities. In order to help entrepreneurs on the way, TEAJ focuses He will also have the opportunity to attend ACCJ events, and will on encouraging graduates and alumni of the TEAJ and EMI receive professional mentoring from an ACCJ member entrepreneur. programs to stay connected and contribute their valuable Working with the entrepreneurial community and other insights to help improve the prospects for budding businesses. partners in Japan—including the Swedish and U.S. Embassies in Their collective wisdom aims to create a new context for game- Tokyo, as well as the ACCJ—the TEAJ and EMI programs seek changing innovation and sustainable enterprises. to create an environment where innovation and risk-taking in Winners of this year’s six TEAJ awards include a company using business can thrive. n proprietary IT for supply chain management, a clothing designer producing professional women’s wear, a mapping The TEAJ was hosted by the Swedish Ambassador to Japan Magnus Robach (center). and walking tour app, and a cutting-edge, social media brand-recognition technology. The ceremony also recognized key support programs and mentors, and provided welcome recognition of the accomplishments of entrepreneurs in Japan. At this year’s ceremony, the U.S. Embassy in Japan’s Economic Minister-Counselor Jessica Webster, along with the ACCJ, presented the U.S. Business Award to BizReach founder Soichiro Minami, whose business model “best

THE JOURNAL n JULY 2015 45 ACCJ EVENT “Japan’s Last Optimist” Jesper Koll’s Annual Spellbinding Speech to the ACCJ

By ACCJ Staff

alking into the thereby joining former prime ministers Yasuhiro Nakasone Tokyo American and Junichiro Koizumi as one of the most longstanding WClub’s Manhattan leaders in recent Japanese history. room on Tuesday, June 2, Koll’s political acumen and fine sense of the personal and one might have been cultural aspects of political economy did not take away from his forgiven for mistaking insights into how economies work. He began his presentation— the occasion for a “Towards a New Japanese Golden Age”—with an eye-opening way Las Vegas show such as of conceptualizing a national economy: as a metabolic system. David Copperfield or The Japanese economy’s “metabolism,” he said, was up in all Cirque du Soleil. The three classic business levers: land, labor, and capital. Real estate word on more than a few transactions are up, non-farm jobs are on the rise, and Japanese attendees’ lips that day was stock exchanges are seeing record-high trading volumes, Koll “showman.” It was clear said. All this supported Koll’s prediction that Japan’s GDP could PHOTO: ACCJ STAFF that some 180 members of grow at a rate of between 2 percent and 2.5 percent a year for the Jesper Koll the American Chamber of next two years. Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) Now in its 15th year, Koll’s annual address to the ACCJ retained and their guests had come prepared to be wowed. the optimism and engaging delivery for which he has become But to reduce the enthusiastic pronouncements of longtime famous. Over the past few months, members of the chamber Japan enthusiast and expert Jesper Koll to simple showmanship have been fortunate to hear from him on a number of occasions is to sell short his deep, thoughtful, and creative analysis. besides his signature talk. Behind Koll’s sustained enthusiasm for Japan is a wealth of In April, Koll sat on a star-studded panel at “Know Your DEFs,” facts, figures and insights into not only its economy but also [a follow-up of “Know Your ABCs”] which was held at the its politics and culture, as well as the motivations of everyday Roppongi Hills Club, Tokyo. Then he gave an insightful interview folk—he has lived here for some 30 years, after all, as a leading together with ACCJ President Emeritus Debbie Howard. To view economist and analyst. either event, please go to the ACCJ website (www.accj.or.jp) or Describing himself as Japan’s Last Optimist, Koll is an astute visit the chamber’s channel on YouTube. student of the Japanese people and an expert who knows his way For over a decade, Koll has spread his jovial enthusiasm for around the country’s—and several organization’s—balance sheets. Japan far and wide. With the economy in Japan showing signs of His observation, at the event, that part-time workers in new life, his audience may well continue to benefit and enjoy his Japan can find a date, but can’t get married, harkened back to showmanship as well as his insights for years to come. And Japan’s a statistic he shared with attendees during his address to the Last Optimist may well feel, at last, like its first cheerleader. n ACCJ in 2014: 43 percent of Japanese women reported that they wanted to marry someone with an income of at least ¥6 million ($49,000) a year, Koll had said, while only 10 percent of Japanese men earn that much. Koll’s focus was not the marriage or birth rate themselves, but what makes people get married; Now in its 15th year, Koll’s annual how that can be quantified; and how marriage address to the ACCJ retained the and birth can be expressed in a way relevant to public policy. optimism and engaging delivery Turning to politics, Koll joked that Abenomics for which he has become famous. had generated a number of midnight calls to him personally from enthusiastic and hungry investors wanting a piece of the new Japan. His comments on Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s pro-business, anti-dogmatic pragmatism revealed admiration for the current administration. Koll, moreover, said it was remarkable that Abe had

remained in office for more than two successive years, PHOTO: ACCJ STAFF

46 THE JOURNAL n JULY 2015 1 The official PR Ambassadors of the Chubu EVENTS Walkathon, OSU, getting the crowd into the mood. (see page 43)

2 From left: Kansai Women in Business Committee Co-Chair, Mary Anne Jorgensen, Nicola Shearer, and Kansai Women in Business Committee Co- Chair, Mie Kitano at the Kansai Event “Reframing Your Feminine Leadership” on May 21 at Eli Lilly Japan K.K.

3 From left: Kansai Business Programs Committee Chair, Stephen Zurcher, Carsten Brunn, Monika Merz and Vice President-Kansai, Kiran Sethi at the Kansai Event, CEO Series: Monika Merz, President, Toys“R”Us, Asia Pacific 1 and President & CEO, Toys“R”Us, Japan at The Ritz-Carlton Osaka on May 29.

4 Jesper Koll speaks at the Tokyo American Club during his presentation “Towards a New Japanese Golden Age” on June 2. (see page 46)

5 Members of the ACCJ gather before the Chubu Walkathon in May. (see page 43)

6 ACCJ Kansai Leaders made a courtesy visit to Mayor of Kobe, Kizo Hisamoto (third from right) on May 27. 2

3 4 UPCOMING EVENTS

Please visit www.accj.or.jp for a complete list of upcoming ACCJ events or check our weekly e-newsletter, The ACCJ Insider.

• JULY 9 ACCJ 2014 Person of the Year Award Ceremony for Yokohama Mayor Fumiko Hayashi

• JULY 15 Creating an Effective Business Plan—

5 An Interactive Workshop (Chubu Event)

facebook.com/The.ACCJ

twitter.com/AmChamJapan

youtube.com/user/AmChamJapan

linkedin.com/company/ american-chamber-of-commerce-in-japan

6 THE JOURNAL n JULY 2015 47 These companies join The Journal in wishing readers a happy Fourth of July.

aig.co.jp www.aircanada.com www.bd.com/jp

www.eiresystems.com www.kikkoman.com

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www.shopjapan.co.jp lhw.com www.tokyodome-hotels.co.jp/e/

toro.com www.vashon.jp FOURTH OF JULY Happy Independence Day to The Journal Readers

hen the Second Continental The trust and friendship between Congress adopted the Declaration the United States and Japan has been W of Independence 239 years ago, built and sustained by our parents and John Adams said he believed the date grandparents. We should not take it would be celebrated by succeeding for granted. Each generation of our generations as a great anniversary festival young people must continue to build with pomp and parade, games, bonfires, new relationships so that this alliance, and illuminations from one end of the and others like it, can continue to play continent to the other forevermore. I am a positive role in the world. honored to continue the tradition started by our founding fathers in celebrating For more than 65 years now, the our nation’s history, heritage, and people, American Chamber of Commerce in and would like to wish all of you a happy Japan (ACCJ) has played a key role in Fourth of July. bringing together new generations of Japanese and Americans and keeping these Enduring relationships with countries relationships close and strong. I have like Japan, who share our democratic especially valued the time I have spent with values, respect for human rights, and the Chamber and its members this year, the rule of law, help us to live up to the as we all continue to work to encourage promises made in the Declaration of prosperous business relations, generate Independence. Japan is not only one of new trade and investment, and deepen our closest allies and a key partner in the exchange of people and ideas between international trade, but is also deeply the United States and Japan. engaged with the United States in leading the way to a brighter future for the As we celebrate the founding of our Caroline Kennedy Asia-Pacific region and beyond. Our nation, I extend to The Journal readers, U.S. Ambassador to Japan nations work in global partnership in the and particularly to the 3,000+ ACCJ areas of health, security, disaster relief, members who represent 1,000 companies humanitarian assistance, the education and over 40 countries, my warmest wishes of women and girls, energy security and for your continued success and a joyful climate change, and nonproliferation. and memorable Independence Day. n

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ASHON/Seattle’s Best Coffee is an “VASHON is an all-day-use café and light make for a relaxed atmosphere V American-style restaurant and café restaurant,” the company’s Supervisor aided by subtle background music. in Tokyo that has a home-away-from- and spokesperson says. “In the morning Also located in Shiba-koen, home feeling enjoyed by the city’s expat we serve original drinks by Seattle’s Best a stone’s throw away from Tokyo community and locals alike. Coffee, while the VASHON restaurant Tower and the sacred site of Zojo-ji, Based on Seattle’s famous food and opens from lunch until dinner time.” VASHON is an ideal getaway for drinks culture—Seattle’s Best Coffee Tucked away in Nihonbashi, one of large or small groups and the was established on the city’s Waterfront Tokyo’s bustling business districts, the individual dinner. n in the 1970s—VASHON and its American café–restaurant’s partner serve specialty coffee as well as comfortable seating, In July, VASHON will have homemade burgers and pizzas, large high ceilings, and a special 4th of July offer salads, and a selection of fine American wide windows for readers of The Journal. wines and craft beers, not to mention a permitting natural Details are available in variety of original soft drinks. this month’s edition of the magazine, and via the restaurant’s website. � www.vashon.jp

JULY FOURTH SPECIAL OFFERS

Located in Ark Hills South Tower in Minato ward, Tokyo Ruby Jack’s Steakhouse & Bar is a classic eatery set in contemporary and Ruby Jack's comfortable surroundings. Steakhouse & Bar Mention The Journal and enjoy a complimentary glass of Champagne Reservations and enquiries with your reservation, available until 03-5544-8222 August 31 2015. [email protected]

Based in Nihonbashi and Shiba-koen, VASHON/Seattle’s Best Coffee offers a complimentary glass of craft beer VASHON (Pale Ale or IPA), a glass of wine, or a cocktail if you order a burger or a pizza Reservations and enquiries (pizza available at Nihonbashi only). Shiba-koen 03-6435-6633 [email protected] Mention The Journal to receive your Nihonbashi 03-5614-0664 free drink between 3 and 13 July 2015. [email protected] BOOK REVIEW They experience the world around them in to Japan to meet “a Zen-style Japanese ways they never could have done had they farmer who practiced what he called stayed in their home countries. At the same ‘natural farming.” Before long he had time, they experience the world around them amassed an eclectic collection of contacts in ways those born into that world—Japan— across various walks of life, both in Tokyo do not. This island nation can be challenging and in far-flung corners of Japan. but, needless to say, it has its rewards. Levinson shares vignettes of his For expats in the world of business, the encounters with a number of these people, rewards may be largely derived from our including his neighbors—who are farmers. business. And yet there are times when the The cross-cultural encounters he describes so-called rat race threatens to consume are both familiar and distinctive. For us. We may even lose sight of the unique example, does the woman who’s offered him perspective of our cross-cultural existence, a room for the night mean to be offering so busy are we with something more? How can he politely getting on with things. refuse to accept money from the local Edward Levinson’s granny to whom he has given a lift? Levinson’s book autobiographical For city dwellers, Levinson’s interactions cannot be called collection of poems and with nature may be more significant essays are a window on and entertaining. Under his pen, plants, an autobiography, what, for many readers, animals, and the very earth itself take on but neither is it will be a “philosophical” personality and add dimension to his life— perspective on the he has a tree for a brother, while dogs, birds, philosophy per se. experience of long-term and even a local badger befriend him. “Whisper of residents in Japan. The book is aptly titled. The land truly Levinson’s book seems to whisper to him. He can delineate cannot be called an and describe soil types in a way that even an the Land: Visions of Japan” autobiography, but urbanite can feel and smell them. His tale neither is it philosophy of tilling potatoes could be a meditation— per se. For me, reading and meditation is an important aspect of By Vicki L. Beyer it provided an interesting, entertaining, Levinson’s lifestyle. and thought provoking respite. The essay Ultimately, we must remember that format, each beginning with one of the Levinson is, at heart, a gardener. Little ompared with 40 years ago, many more author’s poems and samples of his insightful wonder then, that his life in Japan has foreigners are choosing to make Japan photographs, made it possible to seamlessly been one where you “bloom where you’re C their long-term home. Even among shift from one theme to another without any planted.” In this book, Levinson truly members of the American Chamber of grinding of the gears. has bloomed. n Commerce in Japan (ACCJ), nearly 20 These collected essays trace Levinson’s percent have lived in the country for more interactions with people in Japan (and than 10 years. The lives of such people elsewhere): old, young, local, foreign, Vicki L. Beyer is a vice chair of the are almost always fascinating and special. unknown, and famous. Levinson first came Women in Business Committee of the ACCJ. The ACCJ thanks its PRESIDENT Jay Ponazecki Corporate Sustaining Morrison & Foerster, Ito & Mitomi Member companies CHAIRMAN Christopher J. LaFleur Their extensive participation provides a cornerstone in the McLarty Associates chamber’s efforts to promote a better business climate in Japan. TREASURER Jack E. Bird Aflac Kreab Zeirishi-Hojin PricewaterhouseCoopers AIG Companies in Japan Lenovo Japan VICE PRESIDENTS AINEO Networks McDonald's Company (Japan), Ltd. Jeffrey S. Bernier Delta Air Lines, Inc. Amazon Japan K.K. McKinsey & Company, Inc. Japan Leanne Cutts Mondele z Japan Ltd. Marie G. Kissel Abbott Amway Japan G.K. Merrill Lynch Japan Securities Co.,Ltd. Jonathan Kushner Kreab Baxalta Japan Limited MetLife Eric W. Sedlak Jones Day Kiran S. Sethi (Kansai) Jupiter International Corporation Bayer Yakuhin, Ltd. Microsoft Japan Co., Ltd. Christopher Zarodkiewicz (Chubu) Cezars International K.K. Becton Dickinson Japan Mondelez Japan Ltd. ACCJ GOVERNORS Bloomberg L.P. Monex Group, Inc. Tim Brett Coca-Cola (Japan) Co., Ltd. Boeing Japan K.K. Morgan Lewis Thomas M. Clark GE International Inc.

Caterpillar Morgan Stanley Japan Holdings Britt J. Creamer (Chubu) Lockheed Martin TAS Co., Ltd. International Corporation Chevron International Gas Inc. James Fink Colliers International Japan Branch Morrison & Foerster, Ito & Mitomi Rebecca K. Green ERM Japan Ltd. Citigroup MSD K.K. John D. Harris Nippon Becton Dickinson Company, Ltd. Patrik Jonsson (Kansai) Eli Lilly Japan K.K. Coca-Cola (Japan) Co., Ltd. Nanzan Gakuen (Nanzan School Corporation) George L. Maffeo Boeing Japan K.K. Colliers International Junichi Maruyama Citigroup Japan Holdings Corp. Northrop Grumman Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu LLC Aerospace Systems Arthur M. Mitchell White & Case LLP Sachin N. Shah MetLife Insurance K.K. Delta Air Lines, Inc. Nu Skin Japan Co., Ltd. Yoshitaka Sugihara Google Inc. Deutsche Bank Group Oak Lawn Marketing, Inc. William J. Swinton Temple University, Japan Campus Hiroyoshi Watanabe Amazon Japan K.K. Dow Chemical Japan Ltd. Procter & Gamble Japan K.K.

Eli Lilly Japan K.K. Prudential Financial, Inc. PRESIDENTS EMERITI Debbie Howard (2004–2005) en world Japan PwC Japan Charles D. Lake II (2006–2007) EY Japan Randstad K.K. Allan D. Smith (2008) Thomas W. Whitson (2009–2010) Federal Express Corporation RE/MAX Japan Michael J. Alfant (2011–2012) Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer Robert Walters Japan K.K. Tokyo ACCJ EXECUTIVE STAFF Saatchi & Saatchi Fallon Tokyo GE Japan Corporation Laura Younger Executive Director Squire Patton Boggs GILT GROUPE K.K. State Street Goldman Sachs Japan Co., Ltd. Teijin Limited Information as of June 11, 2015 H&R Consultants K.K. Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. Heidrick & Struggles Japan Godo Kaisha Thomson Reuters Markets K.K. The American Chamber of Commerce in Japan Masonic 39 MT Bldg. 10F, 2-4-5 Azabudai Hilton Worldwide Toll Express Japan Co., Ltd. Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan 106-0041 IBM Japan, Ltd. Toys”R”Us, Japan Tel: 03-3433-5381 n Fax: 03-3433-8454

n IMS Japan The Walt Disney Company www.accj.or.jp https://japan.careerengine.org/accj/ (Japan) Ltd. Johnson & Johnson The ACCJ is an independent membership organization not affiliated with any government Family of Companies White & Case LLP or other chamber of commerce. The ACCJ is a member of the Asia-Pacific Council of American Chambers and values its relationships with Japanese, American and other KPMG Zimmer K.K. nations’ business organizations.

THE JOURNAL n JULY 2015 53 ACCJ LEADER

The Health Policy White Paper —a Work in Progress

ver several years, effective their entirety. The most significant progress government policies and efforts by was seen in continued government funding O the Ministry of Health, Labour and of national cancer screening initiatives and Welfare (MHLW) and the Pharmaceuticals in the substantial increase in government and Medical Devices Agency have resulted funding to enhance infection prevention and in significantly reducing the time necessary control at hospitals in Japan. for reviews and approvals for new drugs In 2013, the ACCJ and the European and devices in Japan. Business Council in Japan (EBC), the trade One of the biggest obstacles to patient policy arm of 16 European chambers of access to new medical innovation, beyond commerce, teamed up for the first time to regulatory hurdles is, however, the issue the joint ACCJ–EBC Health Policy By William Bishop universally conservative nature of medical Chair of ACCJ Healthcare Committee White Paper 2013: Lengthening Healthy practice worldwide. The adoption and Lifespans to Boost Economic Growth. With widespread use of medical innovation is often this collaboration, the white paper was slowed by existing rules, guidelines, standard document for the ACCJ Growth Strategy expanded to 36 topic sections offering practices, and social customs. This results Task Force’s white paper in 2010. The 179 recommendations. As with previous in what might be termed a practice lag—the 2010 white paper had 16 topic sections white papers, the goal has been to shift time lag between the introduction of medical offering 53 recommendations based on medical practice in Japan from a purely innovations, practices, and procedures and the belief that improving the health of disease treatment paradigm to a prevention their adoption and widespread use. Though the Japanese people would not only result paradigm that focuses on screening, early the practice lag is common to the medical in a higher quality of life, but also in an detection, and early treatment of disease— field worldwide, when combined with increase in labor productivity and a boost which promises to prevent disease, enhance conservative aspects of Japanese culture, lag in economic competitiveness. quality of life and worker productivity, yield times in Japan often tend to be greater than In 2011, the ACCJ Health Policy cost effective interventions, and produce in other developed countries. White Paper: Proposals to Reduce the better patient outcomes. A principle goal of the American Chamber Economic Burden of Disease by Promoting As was done in 2012, a review was of Commerce in Japan’s (ACCJ’s) advocacy Prevention and Early Detection was greatly conducted after the implementation of for the speedy adoption of evidence-based expanded to 27 topic sections offering 124 reforms on April 1, 2014. Once again, global best practices is to reduce the practice recommendations founded on evidence- over 30 percent (31.2 percent) of the 179 lag in Japan—by showing how medical based global best practices and showed recommendations were fulfilled in part innovations in drugs, devices, diagnostics, as as examples of policies likely to yield a or in their entirety. Notable progress well as in standard practices and procedures significant and positive impact. That being included an acceptance of functional can yield enhanced patient outcomes, said, to gauge the effectiveness of our claims for processed foods (which can have healthcare system improvements, and recommendations, a review was conducted health benefits beyond simple prevention overall cost effectiveness. after the implementation of reforms on of deficiency in certain nutrients), a The first Healthcare Policy White April 1, 2012. commitment to new health IT policies, Paper: Improving Health and Productivity In brief, roughly 37 percent of the 124 continued government funding of national in Japan, was released as a companion recommendations were fulfilled in part or in cancer screening, and a first-ever MHLW mandate requiring a substantial increase in infection reporting at larger hospitals From left: Danny Risberg, EBC chairman; John Harris; Eriko Asai; Tony Alvarez; William Bishop; in Japan. and Christopher J. LaFleur, ACCJ chairman, at the press conference to launch the 2015 white paper Building on our collaboration, the ACCJ and EBC have worked closely to update and further expand the scope of the ACCJ–EBC Health Policy White Paper for 2015— which has 41 topic sections offering 198 recommendations. To learn more, please visit the ACCJ online at www.accj.or.jp n

54 THE JOURNAL n JULY 2015