The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) recently released some useful reports about foreign and Japanese businesses.

Survey on Business Operations of Foreign-affiliated Companies in Japan 2023
The purpose of this survey is to grasp the current status and trends of foreign-affiliated companies based in Japan, the attractiveness and challenges of the business environment in Japan, and the support needed, as well as to prepare data used for effective FDI promotion projects and for reference to improve business environment and for related measures. Based on this objective, the survey scope was expanded to all foreign-affiliated companies in Japan from JETRO-supported companies only; this is the third survey with such a format.
 

FY2023 Survey on Business Conditions of Japanese-Affiliated Companies in Europe
The purpose of the survey is to analyze the activities of Japanese-affiliated companies based overseas and to provide the results to a wide range of Japanese companies and policymakers. Topics covered in this report 1. Operating profit forecast 2. Future business direction for the next one to two years 3. Employment environment 4. Operational challenges 5. European policies and regulations 6. Reconstruction assistance and business activity in Ukraine 7. Procurement and sales 8. European business environment after Brexit 9. EPA/FTA 10. Human rights initiatives 11. Decarbonization efforts.

Key findings:

• The situation in Ukraine continues to impact Japanese-affiliated companies’ businesses in Europe in a major way.
• Green initiatives are the center of attention in terms of EU policies and regulations, the CBAM being the most impactful topic.
• Operating profit forecasts return to pre-COVID levels, as the majority of respondents forecast that their businesses would likely expand in the coming years.
• Supply chains become increasingly more diversified and shorter while procurement volumes from China continue to decline.

FY2023 Survey on the International Operations of Japanese Firms
In recent years, overseas markets have become increasingly important to Japanese companies. In light of this situation, the survey analyzed trends related to overseas business development of Japanese companies, including trade initiatives, e-commerce initiatives, overseas expansion initiatives, supply chain reviews, employment of foreign personnel, DX, human rights, and environmental efforts.

Report Compiled on Results of FY2023 Survey on University-Developed Venture Businesses
University-developed VBs are expected to play a leading role in efforts to bring about innovation within the economy and society based on the results of innovative research in universities and other organizations. Through this survey, METI aims to conduct fixed-point observation of the establishment of university-developed VBs; examine business environments, demands, and other elements; and analyze factors that may contribute to business growth and utilize the results to develop future policies.

Sources: Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and the Japan External Trade Organization