Key Facts
• On July 25, Keidanren held its Summer Forum in Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture.
• The proposal emphasizes reducing dependence on the U.S. and China for trade.
• Advocates doubling research and development spending to strengthen science and technology.
• Calls for transitioning to a high-value-added economy amid population decline.
• Suggests fostering innovation by embracing diverse philosophies and strengthening national leadership.
• Highlights the importance of maintaining U.S.-China relations while enhancing ties with the Global South.
• Recommends leveraging both hard power (economy) and soft power (culture, talent).
• Proposes improving work environments for foreign talent and utilizing AI for efficiency.
• Keidanren Chair Yoshinobu Tsutsui presented the proposal to Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba.
• A roadmap targeting 2040 will outline Japan’s economic and social vision.
Summary
Keidanren, Japan’s leading business federation, convened its Summer Forum on July 25 in Karuizawa, presenting a proposal to establish a self-reliant nation. The plan addresses challenges posed by U.S. high-tariff policies and U.S.-China tensions, urging reduced dependency on these nations. Key measures include doubling research and development spending to bolster science and technology, fostering innovation through cultural diversity, and strengthening national leadership. The proposal also emphasizes collaboration with the Global South, leveraging both economic and cultural strengths. To attract global talent, Keidanren suggests improving multilingual work environments and utilizing AI for operational efficiency. Chair Yoshinobu Tsutsui handed the proposal to Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, who discussed recent trade negotiations. A roadmap targeting 2040 will outline Japan’s future economic and social framework.
