The Japanese economy has recovered smartly from the downturn following the global financial crisis. But the pace of the upturn has been unsatisfactory. The biggest factor has been the reluctance of the Bank of Japan to take a more active stance in fighting deflation.
No. 2 August–September 2010
A senior executive at Sanyo Electric explains the environment in which his company is operating. Asia offers growing markets, but it is also home to some formidable rival companies. He focuses particularly on batteries, a strong growth market in the years to come.
No. 2 August–September 2010
The first step in writing a prescription for the Japanese economy must be an accurate diagnosis of the causes of the persistent stagnation and deflation over the past two decades. Adopting a long-range perspective, economist Itoh Motoshige presents the pertinent facts. Fundamental restructuring is urgently needed to turn the economy around.
No. 1 June–July 2010
The Greek debt crisis has shaken Europe and the rest of the world, drawing renewed attention to the parlous state of Japan’s public finances. Though there is no immediate prospect of a collapse in the market for Japanese government bonds, the administration must offer a blueprint for fiscal rehabilitation.
No. 1 June–July 2010
Japan hopes to be able to win infrastructure business in other countries. It is especially proud of its water supply systems, which it would like to turn into an export item. But international success will depend on strong, multifaceted support from the government.
No. 1 June–July 2010
I took part in a symposium held in Sendai on October 31, 2011. Sponsored by the Japan Center for Economic Research, it was called “Envisaging Specific Visions for the Reconstruction of the Tohoku Region.” Murai Yoshihiro, governor of Miyagi Prefecture, delivered a keynote speech in the symposium, discussing his view on the reconstruction. The symposium got me thinking about reconstruction from the devastation left in the wake of the Great East Japan Earthquake.
