Key Facts
• On August 5, 2025, the Ministry of Economy disclosed 15 poorly rated companies.
• Companies like Terumo and Chateraise received the lowest ratings for SME payment practices.
• 446 companies were ranked in a four-tier system based on SME surveys.
• Payment terms were included in the evaluation due to the 2026 promissory note ban.
• Minister Muto urged companies to improve and ensure fair supply chain practices.
• Local governments like Koriyama City and Kobe City also received the lowest ratings.
• Companies with lowest ratings include Panasonic AP, Mitsubishi Pencil, and Sumitomo Heavy Industries.
Summary
The Ministry of Economy has, for the first time, disclosed the names of 15 companies rated lowest for their payment practices with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The evaluation, based on surveys from SMEs, ranked 446 companies across four tiers, with notable names like Terumo and Chateraise receiving the lowest ratings. This year’s assessment also included payment terms, reflecting the upcoming 2026 ban on promissory note payments. Minister Muto emphasized the need for companies to address these issues and improve supply chain fairness. Additionally, Koriyama City and Kobe City were the lowest-rated among 71 public institutions. The disclosed companies include Panasonic AP, Mitsubishi Pencil, and Sumitomo Heavy Industries, among others.
