The Japanese government has announced it will relax the rules for foreigners who want to set up a company in Japan. 

Presently it is necessary to have at least one person living in Japan registered as a company representative. The Japanese government wants to create a more attractive business environment for foreign nationals and has decided to scrap this obligation from March 2015. Together with this change conditions for visa for those who wish to set up a company in Japan are relaxed as well. 

With the changes it becomes possible for foreigners to independently set up a company in Japan. Foreign-owned companies had ask for this change. Instead of appointing a Japanese national directly when setting up a company, it will be possible to first hire someone as an employee, and after proven aptitude promote that person as a representative. 

The government will also relax regulations with regard to visa. If sufficient documentation proving the intention to set up a business are submitted, visa will be given to foreign entrepreneurs more easily. Also conditions with regards to capital and regular personnell will be relaxed within National Special Strategic Districts (kokka senryaku tokku) 

Sources: Nikkei online (JPN), Nikkei Asia Review (English)