Japan is shifting its economic strategy to better support midsize businesses, which have previously been hindered by classifications that split companies strictly into large or small.
Japanese firms’ rigid categorization contrasts with South Korean and Taiwanese peers’ success in developing midsize enterprises, especially in semiconductors.
Japan is now assisting businesses larger than SMEs but smaller than major corporations to bridge the gap.
The lower house of the Diet considers legislation to create a new category for businesses with up to 2,000 employees, enabling incentives.
Japan’s legislative efforts align with catching up to neighbors like South Korea, fostering midsize companies for export growth.
Taiwan’s initiatives, like subsidies for research and development, have proven successful, meeting growth and job creation targets swiftly.
To further encourage expansion, Japan has revised its tax policy. Local tax now applies to firms with over 1 billion yen capital, expanding from the previous threshold of 100 million yen.
This change aims to prevent large companies from downsizing just to gain tax benefits.
Midsize companies have shown significant economic growth, with domestic capital investment increasing by 1.5 trillion yen over the last decade.
Their sales have outstripped both larger and smaller companies, underscoring their importance to Japan’s economic stability and growth.
Amid global challenges like South Korea’s chaebol governance issues, Japan advances corporate governance reforms for transparency and shareholder value.
Inspired by global practices, Japan’s corporate governance reforms are vital for fostering a competitive environment for midsize companies.
Japan’s focus is clear: transform smaller firms into robust midsize enterprises that drive local economies and position Japan as a leader in corporate innovation and fairness in Asia.