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January 25, 2012 |
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January 24, 2012 |
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The Canadian Chamber of Commerce releases Advancing our
economic ties with China: Three priorities for Canadian busines
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January 4, 2012 |
On the eve of the New Year, performing art troupe Cirque Du Soleil wrapped up its long-running show Zed, at Tokyo Disney Resort on December 31st, 2011. The Quebec-based company executed a theatric display of acrobatics in front of a full-capacity crowd, in which Company Manager Claude Bourbonniere promised that the breathtaking show would return in the future. The Tokyo art troupe has performed over 1,000 times since it was first performed in October 2008.
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November 24, 2011 |
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In its latest report, Canada-Japan: Revitalizing the economic Partnership, the
Canadian Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the CCCJ highlights the benefits of enhanced Canada-Japan
relations and what a successful Canada-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement
(EPA) should include. To read a full report, please click here.
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November 13, 2011 |
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Wilf Wakely, President of CCCJ, Eric De Groot, VP, Past-President of CCCJ and Lia De Groot pay respect with the laying of a wreath at the Commonwealth War Cemetery in Hodogaya, honouring Commonwealth servicemen and servicewomen who fell during the two World Wars and other conflicts.
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October 27, 2011 |
 CCCJ joins in press conference urging Japanese Government to strengthen requirements for Independent Directors in changes to Japanese Company Law with a view of improving Corporate GovernanceEglish Press Release: HereJapanese Press Release: Here |
October 17, 2011 |
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On Monday, October 3rd two independent nuclear experts, Dr. Wade Allison of Oxford University (Author of “Radiation and Reason”) and Dr. Akira Tokuhiro of the University of Idaho (Professor of Nuclear and Mechanical Engineering), presented to a Joint-Chamber audience including CCCJ Members on the state of safety in Japan on radiation risks and the safety of Japanese food. The video and presentations made in Tokyo by Dr. Allison and by Dr. Tokuhiro are available below.
The CCCJ was able to gain a one-on-one interview with Dr. Wade Allison while he was in Tokyo and the Q&A is available here. The files presented by Dr. Wade Allison of Oxford University are available here. The files presented by Dr. Akira Tokuhiro of the University of Idaho are available here. Also, the video of the October 6th presentations are available here. |
October 4, 2011 |
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The Honourable Ed Fast, Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway, today wrapped up a trade visit to Japan and Indonesia during which he made four trade-related announcements, and assisted Canadian businesses seeking out new economic opportunities in the region. During his visit, Minister Fast announced:
- Canada’s signing of the historic Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA), which will combat trade in counterfeit and pirated goods while helping ensure innovation- and knowledge-based prosperity;
- an expanded air transport agreement between Canada and Japan, which will help deepen Canada’s important trade and investment relationship with Japan and benefit air travellers, workers and businesses;
- an agreement to enhance cooperation between Canada and Japan’s science and technology sectors; and
- a trade and investment framework with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to increase Canada’s trade and investment ties in the region.
Minister Fast began his visit in Japan, where he visited the Sendai region, which was devastated by the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami. He toured the affected areas to offer condolences on behalf of Canada and announced the “Hope for Youth” scholarships, which will allow many Japanese students whose lives were affected by the disaster to study in Canada. Information from Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
For further information please click here
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October 3, 2011 |
The nonprofit Board Director Training Institute of Japan ( BDTI) has been certified by the Japanese government as a rare new koueki houjin to specialize in information sharing and training to improve corporate governance, something which is vital to improving the economy and the environment for foreign investment in Japan. Without better corporate governance, M&A opportunities for foreign firms will continue to be the exception rather than the rule, and both growth and the stock market will continue to be sluggish because of zombie companies and other manifestations of slow asset allocation.
This private-sector initiative needs to raise more than 100 donations in amounts larger than 3,000 Yen each by next March in order to qualify for extra-special tax status. Donations are already tax-deductible in Japan. If you agree with BDTI’s mission, please contribute 3,500 Yen or more using the form at http://bdti.or.jp/english/donate and ask two friends to do the same. In this simple way, we Canadians can make a statement –the CCCJ will be listed as among BDTI’s “Supporters” --in the year when Japan just experienced one of the largest failures of governance oversight over risk management in history.
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September 30, 2011 |
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The Japan Market
Expansion Competition (JMEC), a business plan writing competition that is
supported by the CCCJ and 15 other foreign chambers in Japan, can provide you with a tailor-made
business plan that addresses your company’s specific business objectives in the
Japanese market.
JMEC, now in its
18th year, is a program designed to help foreign organizations,
including large corporations and SMEs (Project Clients), enter or expand their
business in the Japanese market, while at the same time giving young executives
(Participants) the opportunity to improve their business skills. After completing a series of lectures and
workshops on how to do business in Japan, program participants work together in
teams of five or six, supported by a team mentor and financial consultant, to
write a business plan for their assigned project client.
The project clients
benefit by receiving a well-researched, quality business plan that is addressing
their activities in the Japanese market for a fraction of the cost of hiring
outside consultants. For detailed
information about the client benefits and about the qualifications of project
participants, please refer to the attached documents, or contact the JMEC
Program Director Pierre Couret at info@jmec.gr.jp or call 03-5562-1444.
To find out more about becoming a Project Client click here
To sign up for more information click here
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August 25, 2011 |
The Premier of Quebec, Jean Charest was in Japan on an official visit from August 23rd to 27th accompanied by Madame Monique Gagnon-Tremblay, Minister of International Relations and Minister responsible for La Francophonie and Jacques Daoust, President of Investissement Quebec.
On August 25th, 2011, the Premier gave a keynote address at a luncheon organized by the Delegation generale du Quebec a Tokyo in collaboration with the CCCJ and attended by around 175 people, primarily from the business and the financial communities in Japan.
Premier Charest spoke positively about the new opportunity to develop a new partnership between Canada and Japan in the initiated discussions for a new Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA). Mr. Charest wanted to publicly be on the record of expressing support for the whole EPA initiative.
Mr. Charest, speaking to the primarily Japanese audience, introduced Le Plan Nord, the new initiative from the Quebec government to sustainably develop the northern regions of Quebec, while ensuring that 50% of the land to be protected from industrial activity.
The Premier noted that Quebec is more than ready to meet Japan’s metal needs, stating the Province has iron ore, gold, nickel, lithium, platinum, rare earths and diamonds.
The visit and presentation from the Premier will be highlighted in the upcoming autumn issue of the CCCJ Quarterly Magazine - The Canadian.
For more information on Le Plan Nord, please click here
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August 3, 2011 |
On Wednesday July 27th, JETRO, the Japanese
Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), the Japanese Ministry of Foreign
Affairs (MOFA) and other Ministries hosted a briefing for the foreign business
community to present on the current situation of TEPCO's Fukushima Daiichi
Nuclear Power Plant as well as on the Safety of Food. The presentations made at
the briefing are available in the following links. The presentations are available below. [ Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry ]
[ The Tokyo Electric Power Company, Incorporated (TEPCO)] [ Prime Minister's Office ]
For the latest Information, see the website below.
Useful Websites
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August 2, 2011 |
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Summary of Japan Engagement Seminar Series:
From June 17 - 24, 2011, the Canadian Embassy in Tokyo conducted the Japan Seminar Series across Canada. The series consisted of a half-day seminar held in each of Halifax, Montreal, Toronto, Calgary, and Vancouver, to inform Canadians of commercial opportunities in Japan and the status of affairs following the March 11 disasters that affected the country. The Canadian Embassy deemed it necessary to organize the seminar due to decreased business levels and in response to uneasiness viewed in the Canadian business community in dealing with Japan post-March 11, beyond reasonable fears arising from the disasters.
With the assistance of more than one dozen partners from across Canada and within the Japanese government, the five seminars attracted over 400 participants. The seminars all contained several program elements designed to have the audience hear directly from an expert speaker on one of many topics covered during the 3-4 hour events. Experts included several members of the department (including TOKYO's Commercial Minister, Trade Commissioners for Food & Beverage and Building & Construction, and Regional Office representatives), the government more widely (EDC, CMHC, Provincial representatives), the Japanese Government (including their Ambassador to Canada and a JETRO Vice President), and many company officials representing the Canadian private sector (including the CCCJ) in one of the key areas the seminars targeted: building & construction, agriculture, clean energy, services, and automotive (in Ontario only).
Feedback has been received from participants, attendees, organizing partners, and the Japanese government, and is overall very positive. The events were seen as a necessary move to counter much negative (and mostly unwarranted) publicity surrounding Japan lately, and were reported to have succeeded in reassuring the Canadian attendees that with small and notable exceptions, Japan is, indeed, safe to visit. Moreover, it is a country that will require a massive reconstruction effort, and Canadian companies learned how they can more effectively (re)engage the Japanese market to better realize commercial success.
The high level of attendance at the seminars (particularly in Vancouver and Toronto where there were waiting lists to register), along with the amount of people who wanted to speak with trade commissioners indicates a strong interest amongst Canadian companies to enter the Japanese marketplace.
Video is available on Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada website
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August 1, 2011 |
David Anderson, the Executive Director of the CCCJ interviewed by a Member company, TrainTracks
Japanese version is available here
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July 22, 2011 |
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July 19, 2011 |
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On Wednesday, July 13, the CCCJ was invited by the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and the Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT) to present to officials at a Roundtable session focusing on the Joint Study on the Possibility of a Canada-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA).
The CCCJ presentation focused on the current Canadian business presence in Japan, bilateral trade and investment trends and opportunities, and provided an overview of opportunities by sector. The presentation was closed with the CCCJ's input on the benefits and advantages of a bilateral EPA, as well as the potential risks of failure in the discussions. To view the CCCJ presentation, please visit here.
Following the CCCJ presentation, a number of Corporate Members of the CCCJ who were participating in the Roundtable session spoke briefly about how current commercial relations could be improved for their specific sectors, via liberalization of trade and elimination of non-tariff barriers.
The CCCJ will continue to bring the voice of Canadian business in Japan to the attention of officials and we urge both governments to conclude the Joint Study as quickly as possible and commence negotiations of a bilateral EPA.
On Thursday, July 14, the CCCJ hosted David Plunkett, Chief Trade Negotiator (Bilateral and Regional), Trade Policy and Negotiations, Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada.
In Japan for advanced discussions related to the Joint Study on the Possibility of a Canada-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement, David spoke to a solid gathering of CCCJ Members about Canada's efforts and progress thus far in the bilateral discussions. Accompanied by a number of his staff, David and his team obliged to a Q&A session following his presentation where a well rounded discussion took place.
The CCCJ wishes to extend its appreciation to David Plunkett and his team for their time and for providing an insightful presentation to our Members. |
May 18, 2011 |
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Oranda-jima Project was introduced at the Joint Chamber Charity Event on April 25, 2011. Updates are available here:
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May 13, 2011 |
"Weber Shandwick" Real Voices, Real Japan will keep you up to date with the
business environment and recovery in post-quake Japan
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April 27, 2011 |
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FCIJ Business Confidence Survey Report - Spring 2011 |
April 26, 2011 |
On
March 31st, JETRO, Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan (MOFA), and relevant ministries and
agencies hosted a briefing for foreign companies on the current situation of the
Fukushima dai-ichi nuclear power plant and the effects of the Tohoku-Pacific
Ocean Earthquake" in the IBSC Tokyo.
Please follow this link for distributed information. http://www.jetro.go.jp/en/invest/newsroom/announcements/2011/20110405335.html
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April 22, 2011 |
Japanese Government
Procurement for Fiscal Year 2011
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs held the Japanese Government Procurement
Seminar for FY2011 on April 22. A number of different Ministries presented on their
procurement projects for this fiscal year.
Each presentation, which is quite detailed
in nature, lists an itemized agenda for procurement in respects to each
Ministry’s needs for: Products and Services in general, Telecommunications,
Computer Products and Services and Medical Technology Products and Services.
Also, the ‘Guide to the Government
Procurement Market of Japan’ has been updated and is available on the MOFA site
here: http://www.mofa.go.jp/policy/economy/procurement/q-a.pdf
Individual presentations are available from
the following Ministries by following the appropriate links:
Ministry of Internal Affairs
and Communications
Ministry of Justice
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Ministry of Finance
Ministry of Health, Labour and
Welfare
Ministry of Agriculture,
Forestry and Fisheries
Ministry of Economy, Trade and
Industry
Ministry of Land,
Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism
Ministry of Defence
Cabinet Office
National Police Agency
Ministry of the Environment
Nippon Telegraph and Telephone East/West Corporation
Japan Post
National University Corporation
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April 15, 2011 |
Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure,
Transport and Tourism accepting proposals for emergency temporary housing using
imported materials. Period of acceptance from April 15th, 2011 to April 25th,
2011. For more information on the project, please visit here: http://www.mlit.go.jp/en/report/press/house04_hh_000000.html
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April 12, 2011 |
On April 12, the Nuclear
and Industrial Safety Agency of Japan raised the alert level of the Fukushima
Daiichi nuclear power plant from a 5 to a 7, according to the International Nuclear
and Radiological Event Scale. While there has been some media
comparison to the Chernobyl event, which had been put at the same level, this
comparison should be viewed with extreme caution. Japanese authorities
confirmed that this is a backward-looking assessment based on better estimates
of the amount of radioactive contamination released in the early days of the
crisis. It is not meant to imply that there has been a sudden change to the
levels of radioactive contamination. Environmental radioactivity levels
continue to remain very low outside the immediate vicinity of the Fukushima nuclear power plant.
Information on the status of nuclear facilities in Japan can also be obtained on the websites of the Japan Nuclear and
Industrial Safety Agency (NISA) and the Canadian Nuclear Safety
Commission.
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April 7, 2011 |
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The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs will be holding a Government
Procurement Seminar for Fiscal Year 2011 on April 22nd, 2011 where they
will be providing a general overview of the Government Procurement
Procedures as well as the expected procurement for Fiscal 2011.
 Japanese Government Procurement Seminar for Fiscal Year 2011 |
April 6, 2011 |
Information on the process of importating Potassium Iodine from the
Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, Pharmaceutical and Food
Safety Bureau.
Credit given to the European Business Council in Japan for the supplying
of the information as well as translation from Japanese to English.
Please note this is not an official Ministry translation.
Potassium Iodine Importing Procedures
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April 5, 2011 |
General overview of the changes made by the Japanese Ministry of
Finance, Customs and Tariff Bureau. Credit given to the European
Business Council in Japan for the supplying of the information as well
as translation from Japanese to English. Please note this is not an
official Ministry translation.
Customs Procedures changes due to Tohoku-Pacific Ocean Earthquake
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February 24, 2011 |
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See link
to DFAIT News Release
http://www.international.gc.ca/media_commerce/comm/news-communiques/2011/077.aspx?lang=eng
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February 23, 2011 |
Canadian Chamber head in Ottawa calls Canada-Japan Joint Study Step in Right Direction
Click here for full story |
February 18, 2011 |
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Globe
and Mail reports on February 16 that sources say Canada will take another run
at sparking free-trade talks with Japan, the world‘s third-largest economy, by
launching a joint study on a trade deal.
See
link for full story.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/canada-to-take-another-shot-at-free-trade-talks-with-japan/article1910796/
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February 1, 2011 |
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The following article appeared in the Ottawa Citizen on January 29, 2011.
'Let the private sector drive growth', by Perrin Beatty, Citizen Special
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January 28, 2011 |
Eminent Canadian Academic talks about Canada-Japan relations and the role of the CCCJ
Dr. Charles J. McMillan, Professor of Strategic Management and International
Business at the Schulich School of Business, York
University, spoke to a group of
Canadian businessmen in Tokyo in
December 2010 about the current state of Canada-Japan economic relations and
the role of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Japan.
Professor McMillan who is the author of nine books related to international
business and global management and former senior policy advisor to Prime
Minister Mulroney, is a leading advocate for the creation of a North American Gateway. The attached video contains an excerpt from Professor McMillan’s
remarks in Tokyo.
Click here to see the video on our Showcase.
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December 9, 2010 |
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Trade Policy Paper
December 2010 CCCJ Makes Presentation to Trade Officials Senior Japanese and Canadian trade officials met in Tokyo on December 9, 2010 for the third round of the bilateral Trade and Investment Dialogue, established by the Joint Economic Committee in 2008. Eric De Groot, President of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Japan (CCCJ) and Shawn Lawlor, Chair of the CCCJ Trade Policy Committee, attended the morning session of the meeting and made a presentation outlining the Chamber’s support for an early conclusion of an Economic Partnership Agreement between Japan and Canada. The government officials were also presented with the CCCJ November 2010 Trade Policy Paper entitled "Capitalizing on Natural Synergies: Towards an EPA Agreement Between Japan and Canada", which outlines the Chamber's views on current bilateral trade issues. During the CCCJ presentation, which took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, De Groot noted that despite an impressive rebound in bilateral trade volumes since the onset of the global economic downturn, bilateral trade between Canada and Japan has fallen in relative terms as other markets such as India and China have grown. He called on officials from both governments to begin negotiations for an Economic Partnership Agreement as a matter of priority so that businesses in both countries can take advantage of the natural synergies that exist in each other’s markets. The recent downturn in the United States has also taught Canadian businesses the danger of over reliance on one export market. The current trade environment creates a unique opportunity to attract the attention of those Canadian businesses that are looking to diversify. Recent discussions at the APEC Leaders Meetings in Yokohama in November show that other countries and regions are moving ahead with their own EPAs or expanded trade efforts. Canada and Japan cannot afford to fall behind. De Groot noted that government and the private sector both benefit when the foundation exists for a more active dialogue between business and government. An EPA between Japan and Canada will have a number of benefits for both countries, including opening new markets for goods and services; promoting innovation and competition; enhanced living standards; more secure access to resources, technology and investment; increased transparency; and increased people flows.
In addition to the call for an early conclusion of an EPA, the CCCJ Trade Policy Paper also identifies a number of specific issues that the Chamber wishes to see addressed by government officials. Four sector priorities identified as of special concern to the CCCJ are:
1. financial services
2. air transport
3. forest and building products, and
4. food and agriculture. Chamber members hope to work with governments directly on these issues without waiting for the conclusion of an EPA. The CCCJ paper also identified several non-traditional issues as being of concern to CCCJ members, including the possible elimination of the JET program, spousal employment rules and the tax deductibility of school fees. Although issues such as these are not usually raised in trade talks, they can directly affect the ability of business people to live and work comfortably in Japan and thus can affect decisions Canadian companies make to open offices or establish a presence in Japan.
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November 30, 2010 |
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MEDIA ANNOUNCEMENT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Japan Market Expansion Competition Welcomes New Supporter as JMEC 17 Begins TOKYO, December 1, 2010—The Norwegian Chamber of Commerce in Japan (NCCJ)
became the 16th foreign chamber of commerce to support the Japan Market Expansion
Competition (JMEC). The latest round of the JMEC program, which is now in its 17th year,
commenced on November 13th, it was announced today. NCCJ was established in 2003 to replace the Norwegian Business Forum in Tokyo. Currently
with 60 members, the NCCJ has become an established focal center and forum for
companies and individuals involved in Norway-Japan business. Membership reflects a wide
range of sectors, from traditional industries such as seafood and shipping to high-tech
ventures providing the latest innovations. The NCCJ works closely with Team Norway, an
informal private-public sector group including the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Tokyo,
Innovation Norway, Norway-Japan Society, Scandinavian Tourist Board, and Scandinavian
Airlines. NCCJ President Trond Varlid said: “We are very pleased to join JMEC as a supporting
chamber. Having been personally involved with JMEC in various capacities for many years, I
know that our members can benefit in a number of ways from the program—companies as
well as individuals. Companies looking for innovative business plans for particular projects at
a low cost will find JMEC a highly attractive option. For individuals looking to develop their
business skills and knowledge, JMEC is a unique opportunity to learn directly from
professional executives—lecturers, mentors and consultants—and by working on real
projects for real companies, not just academic business case studies.” JMEC Chairperson Verena Urbschat said: “JMEC is continuously expanding our network of
supporting chambers, enabling us to reach an even wider audience in the business
community in Japan and considering potential project clients from across the world. The
support JMEC receives from foreign chambers in Japan has played a crucial role in making it
a successful business-training program and business-plan writing competition. Each
supporting chamber adds to the extremely international flavor of JMEC and we are very
pleased to welcome on board the Norwegian Chamber of Commerce in Japan.” JMEC 17 First Phase Begins
JMEC 17 began on November 13 with the program’s first phase featuring a series of lectures
and workshops on training and skills development. This year’s program is attended by 58
participants from 21 countries, including a large number of participants from Japan. Their
average age is 33 years, with over one-third of them female. JMEC Program Director Laura Loy said: “Having been involved with the program since
JMEC 13 (2006-07), I have seen more than 200 highly qualified and motivated individuals
graduate. The 58 participants that are joining JMEC 17 are no exception. Hailing from so
many different nations and with very diverse personal and professional backgrounds, they
are a unique and capable group. It is clear they are already extremely eager to get to work
on researching and writing the comprehensive business plans for their Project Clients and
the JMEC judges.” JMEC—150 Business Plans since 1993
JMEC is a not-for-profit organization sponsored by 16 foreign chambers of commerce in
Japan. It sends up-and-coming executives and entrepreneurs (Participants) through a series
of lectures and workshops presented by respected professionals. Participants sign nondisclosure
agreements and are put into teams that are matched with foreign companies (Project Clients)
and an experienced mentor to research and compose a business plan for the Japanese market.
At the end of the program, JMEC judges nominate the three top teams and award them prizes.
Nearly 150 business plans have been completed since JMEC was established in 1993. For more information:
JMEC
Laura Loy, JMEC Program Director
Email: info@jmec.gr.jp
Website: www.jmec.gr.jp Press Release issued by:
Custom Media
Communications & Media Consultants
Simon Farrell, Publisher
Email: simon@custom-media.com
Tel: (03)-5545-5420 |
November 4, 2010 |
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Reaction in
B.C.'s business community to Premier Gordon Campbell's resignation was a mix of
shock and appreciation.
John Winter,
president and CEO of the B.C. Chamber of Commerce, called Campbell "perhaps the
best economic manager the province has had" and said it's critical his
successor stays the course.
"What
we've really got are good public policies that have been allowed to be derailed
by politics, and the HST is perhaps the best example of that," Winter said
in a phone interview. "British Columbians will be very sorry if HST
leaves, but it's hard to explain that."
The
uncertainty surrounding leadership of the province is a concern, he said, and
noted it will be key that Campbell's successor has a
strong economic background and is a good team player.
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September 21, 2010 |
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CCCJ Statement on the Issue of Parental Child Abduction
Tokyo, September 21, 2010: The Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Japan supports the statements of our Ambassador and the Ambassadors of Australia, France, Italy, New Zealand, Spain, the United Kingdom and the United States issued on the 16th of October 2009 and the 18th of March 2010 expressing concern to the Government of Japan about the increase in international parental abduction cases involving Japan and affecting Canadian Nationals.
Japan is an important friend and partner of Canada, and we share many values in common. This makes it all the more important to develop tangible solutions to cases of parental child abduction in Japan. We are eager to work closely and in a positive manner with the new Japanese government on this issue in light of several well publicized cases of parents abducting children to Japan in direct contravention of court rulings in other nations.
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Japan believes strongly in developing and maintaining close business and cultural ties between our two countries and that an important pillar of such ties is founded on a stable family life centered around children and their best interests. In this connection, many of our members are in Japan with families and in bicultural marriages and, at least until Japan joins the Hague ‘Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction’, there will continue to be a perception of risk in living and working in Japan. We note with satisfaction that Japan has indicated that it will join the Hague and we trust that this will occur as soon as possible.”
The CCCJ calls for the government of Japan to identify and implement measures to enable parents who are separated from their children to maintain contact with them and ensure visitation rights, and to establish a framework for resolution of current child abduction cases. Specifically the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Japan urges the Japanese government to consider amendments to the family law of Japan and entrenchment of judicial guidelines as to the principles of joint custody, ‘best interests of the child’, access and visitation rights and an effective enforcement mechanism for all of these.
We believe that such amendments are an effective way to bring Japan in line with the majority of developed nations in giving full effect to the rights of children as enshrined in the Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989) as ratified by Japan
The Board of Governors
Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Japan
- 30 -
PRESS CONTACT: The CCCJ Office Tel. 03-5775-9500 editor@cccj.or.jp
About the CCCJ Promoting the development of commerce between Canada and Japan since 1975, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Japan (CCCJ) is a private sector, not-for-profit business organization serving its members through communications, networking and advocacy. Representing some 33 business sectors, the CCCJ is a member-driven, member-focused organization and is the longest serving Canadian Chamber in Asia with over 300 members. Our members represent a broad cross-section of businesspersons and entrepreneurs from Canada, Japan and other countries. They include Canadian companies operating in Japan, Japanese companies and individuals with ties to Canada, small business owners and Canadians working in Japan. |
July 13, 2009 |
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The following is an update on Bill C-37, an Act to Amend the Citizenship Act which was enacted in the second session of the 39th Parliament.  Proposed Amendments to Bill C-37
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March 13, 2008 |
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For non-Japanese who depart Japan, you may be entitled to claim a pension refund if you have paid into the Japanese Social Security System. For more information on Japan's social insurance sytem, and to determine your eligibility, click here |
February 8, 2008 |
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On February 8, Mark Carney, the newly appointed Bank of Canada Governor, spoke to members of
the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Japan. It
was Governor Carney's first speech since assuming his new role on February 1, 2008.
The governor provided an overview of the Canadian economy, commented on the
recent economic and financial events, and provided an economic outlook followed by a Q&A period. The
governor is in Tokyo
to attend the G-7 finance meetings.
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January 28, 2008 |
Earlier this month, Japanese homebuilder Araya Kosan opened "Selco Home Takaoka Models," a model site in Takaoka, Toyama Prefecture, of homes assembled using complete kits imported from Canada. The long lasting, well insulated, earthquake-resistant homes feature ash floors and solid oak fixtures.
Information summarized from: Takaoka Shimbun courtesy of Canadian Embassy Translation Services, Tokyo |
January 25, 2008 |
The Bank of Japan decided January 22 to keep its key interest rate on hold in a widely expected move and warned that the Japanese economy is "slowing" for the time being due to global financial market turmoil and weak domestic housing investment. The nine-member Policy Board of the central bank voted to leave the target rate for unsecured overnight call money at 0.5%. stability.
The board at the same time cut the central bank's earlier assessment of Japanese economic growth after reviewing the bank's biannual outlook report released last October. The BOJ included the result of the review in its monthly economic report for January, saying the rate of real gross domestic product growth in fiscal 2007 through March "is likely to be slightly lower than the potential growth rate."
Information summarized from: Japan Today News |
January 23, 2008 |
The Canada Beef Export Federation (CBEF) will conduct a Canada Beef Technical Seminar for 150 guests at the Intercontinental Tokyo Bay Hotel from 5 to 9 p.m. January 29. Targeting the retail and food service industries, the event aims to make developers of beef products aware of the unique qualities of Canadian beef. This year’s seminar, the second in two years, will focus on steak and "short plate" beef. Speakers at the seminar will include CBEF executives and a teacher from a Japanese cooking school.
Information summarized from: Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun courtesy of Canadian Embassy Translation Services, Tokyo |
January 21, 2008 |
In an interview with a Japanese industrial paper, Alberta Minister of Employment, Immigration and Industry Iris Evans emphasized that Alberta oilsand was an important investment opportunity for Japan because Japan is highly dependent on foreign energy. She explained Canada’s own oilsand investments and its efforts to alleviate the personnel shortage in Alberta including the shortage of doctors and nurses.
Information summarized from: Nikkei Sangyo Shimbun courtesy of Canadian Embassy Translation Services, Tokyo |
January 17, 2008 |
In a recent Vancouver meeting with Japanese journalists, BC Assistant Deputy Minister of Economic Development Mike Carter appealed for Japanese investment and explained why the province had a bright future. Carter said, for example, that the BC economy’s current shift from natural resources and tourism to high technology would result in high growth. He also explained that BC was expanding its sea port and airport facilities, aiming for a 76-billion-yen (C $679.4 million) expansion in trade with Asia by 2020.
Information summarized from: Nihon Kaiji Shimbun courtesy of Canadian Embassy Translation Services, Tokyo
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January 15, 2008 |
Tomoshige Sakamoto of the Canadian Beef Export Federation says Japan’s rule that beef imported from Canada must come from animals under 21 months of age results in higher prices and lower sales. Canada’s beef exports to Japan this year are expected to reach 3,400 tonnes. Although that is 60% more than last year, it is only a tenth of the peak level reached before BSE. Sakamoto adds, however, that a wide "pipeline" is ready and that exports can increase rapidly if the age restriction is relaxed.
Information summarized from: Shokuhin Sangyo Shimbun courtesy of Canadian Embassy Translation Services, Tokyo
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January 11, 2008 |
The Asia Pacific region will experience slower economic growth in 2008, but is likely to avoid a sharp downturn due to the sub-prime mortgage crisis in the US, according to the Pacific Economic Cooperation Council’s annual State of the Region report. PECC forecasters expect 4.9% real GDP growth for the region as a whole in 2008, rising to 5.2% in 2009. This forecast assumes that the United States will not enter into a recession and that a recovery in the housing sector will take place in the second half of 2008. The report includes the findings of PECC’s annual survey of opinion leaders in the Asia Pacific region. Survey respondents identified high energy prices, water pollution, and global warming as the top three risks to economic growth in the region. The full report can be found at www.pecc.org/sotr.
Information summarized from: Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada Press Release |
January 9, 2008 |
Starting in April of 2008, Canada Pork International (CPI) will offer 2-day training courses in Japan for pork buyers from Japanese supermarkets. The buyers will learn about pork production in Canada, butchering techniques, and quality maintenance. CPI is offering the courses to raise awareness of Canadian pork in Japan and counteract possible negative influence from the rising Canadian dollar.
Information summarized from: Nikkei Marketing Journal courtesy of Canadian Embassy Translation Services, Tokyo
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January 7, 2008 |
Japan’s national broadcaster NHK announced that it has signed a contract to supply programs to Discovery Channel Canada. NHK will supply over 70 hours of programming between now and September 2010.
Information summarized from: Nikkei courtesy of Canadian Embassy Translation Services, Tokyo
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December 21, 2007 |
British Columbia’s Minister of State for Mining, Kevin Krueger, recently visited Japan following a visit to China. In a Japanese newspaper interview, he stressed BC’s rich and wide-ranging mineral resources and appealed for Japanese investment. He emphasized that BC’s coal was of high quality and was mined in an environmentally friendly manner. He also pointed out that BC was the only province in Canada producing molybdenum (a rare metal) and that BC was home to half of Canada’s mineral exploration companies. Finally, he stressed that Japan’s longstanding relationship with BC gave it an advantage over China in the global competition for mineral resources.
Information summarized from: Fuji Sankei Business Eye courtesy of Canadian Embassy Translation Services, Tokyo
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December 20, 2007 |
Auctions of Canadian herring roe have been underway for nearly a month in Osaka, Kobe, and Nagoya. Canadian fishing restrictions resulting in a smaller catch are raising prices in Japan. Roe sold under the "Yellow Diamonds" brand is 10-30% more expensive than last year. Even so, dealers recommend Canadian herring roe for this year’s holiday tables because the quality is outstanding.
Information summarized from: Sankei Shimbun, Yomiuri Shimbun, Kobe Shimbun, Mainichi Shimbun, Chunichi Shimbun, Nikkan Suisan Keizai Shimbun courtesy of Canadian Embassy Translation Services, Tokyo
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December 19, 2007 |
Negotiations between Canada’s largest potash producer, Canpotex, and Japanese potash buyers (agriculture cooperatives and trading companies) over the January-to-June 2008 price of potash have ended with the Japanese side accepting a price hike of 40 to 50%, the largest in history. Prices have been rising for several years and Japanese negotiators tried to keep prices down for Japanese farmers, but there was little they could do because global demand for potash is high and suppliers are few. Shipping costs have risen drastically as well, and no relief is in sight.
Information summarized from: Kagaku Kogyo Nippo courtesy of Canadian Embassy Translation Services, Tokyo |
December 18, 2007 |
The Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada has announced details of its Research Grants Program which is principally funded through the proceeds of an endowment established by the Government of Canada. It is designed to support research and informed discussion on public policy issues related to Canada's engagement with the Asia Pacific region. The Asia Pacific Research Grants are available in four categories: Policy Research Grants; Post-Graduate Research Fellowships; Media Fellowship Grants; and Special Initiative Funding. All grant recipients will be selected on the merits of their proposals and on their potential contribution to advancing the objectives of the Foundation’s programs. Applications may be submitted in English or French. Detailed information about the Research Grants Program is available at: http://www.asiapacificresearch.ca/grants/2008_09/index.cfm.
Information summarized from: Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada Press Release |
December 17, 2007 |
Canadian Minister of Agriculture and Agri-food Gerry Ritz met with Japan’s Senior Vice Minister of Agriculture Masahiro Imamura on the sidelines of an FAO (United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization) meeting in Rome in November. Aiming for an end to Japan’s strict age limits for imported beef, Ritz told Imamura that Canada would like to pursue technical talks on beef safety based on OIE (International Organization of Animal Health) standards (which are less strict than Japan’s). Imamura did not respond to Ritz’s proposal, stating instead that Japan would respond to beef issues "based on scientific evidence, with food safety as a prerequisite."
Information summarized from: Nihon Nogyo Shimbun courtesy of Canadian Embassy Translation Services, Tokyo |
December 14, 2007 |
Japan’s Kochi Prefecture recently sent a 23-member mission on an 8-day study trip to Canada to learn about biomass energy and environmentally friendly tourism. In Toronto the group met CEO David Layzell of BIOCAP, a Canadian organization promoting use of biomass fuels. It also visited BIOX Corporation near Lake Ontario, a U of T spinoff that makes biodiesel fuel from soybeans, canola, and restaurant and slaughterhouse waste.
Information summarized from: Kochi Shimbun courtesy of Canadian Embassy Translation Services, Tokyo |
December 12, 2007 |
Sixty tonnes of tangerines (mikan) from Kanagawa Prefecture southwest of Tokyo have been shipped from Shimizu port to Canada where they will be sold as "Christmas oranges" under the Sun brand. Director Yoshiharu Ishiguro of the JA (Japan Agriculture) fruit centre in Shonan says, "We like to export because we can sell at stable prices. This year was a good one and the fruit is delicious."
Information summarized from: Nihon Nogyo Shimbun courtesy of Canadian Embassy Translation Services, Tokyo
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December 10, 2007 |
The Canadian Pacific Kazunoko (herring roe) Association organized a seminar in Nagoya last month sponsored by the Japan Dietetic Association and Healthy Nippon 21 Council. Two experts presented research suggesting that regular herring roe consumption may reduce blood cholesterol. They also stated that herring roe contained more protein than other fish eggs. The 200 dieticians and health care workers in attendance were treated to a "kazunoko box lunch" featuring herring roe and camembert cheese wrapped in ham. The seminar was also given in Fukuoka.
Information summarized from: Nikkan Suisan Keizai Shimbun courtesy of Canadian Embassy Translation Services, Tokyo
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December 7, 2007 |
The Canada Beef Export Federation held its annual "Canada Beef and Veal Seminar" in Tokyo with 270 guests in attendance. In addition to a press conference and reception, the seminar featured speakers from the Federation, the Canadian and Alberta governments, and the private sector. An ambitious Japan sales target of "44,000 tonnes per year by 2015" was announced. The goals seems unreasonable considering that less than 3,000 tonnes was exported to Japan in 2006, but Federation President Ted Haney is confident that Canada’s efforts in quality, traceability, and safety combined with a relaxation of Japan’s import restrictions will make a big difference. The rise of the Canadian dollar over the past two years has recently depressed exports.
Information summarized from: Shokuhin Sangyo Shimbun, Nihon Shokuhin Shimbun, Shokuhin Sangyo Shimbun courtesy of Canadian Embassy Translation Services, Tokyo |
December 5, 2007 |
The Tokyo International Anime Fair (TAF), a four-day annual event launched in 2002, will be held from March 27 to 30, 2008. The Canadian Embassy in Tokyo will again coordinate the Canada Pavilion at TAF 2008. The Embassy will also provide networking opportunities and meeting arrangements between Canadian and other companies attending TAF. The Embassy invites Canadian companies interested in exploring the Japanese and other Asian markets to take advantage of space to display their promotional material or demonstrate their products. Contact the Canadian Embassy in Tokyo and visit the official TAF website at http://www.tokyoanime.jp/en/ for more details.
Information provided by: Canadian Embassy, Japan |
December 3, 2007 |
Japanese architect Hiroshi Kato, who is rebuilding Rinkoji Temple in Mishima, Shizuoka Prefecture, says that he expects the Canadian white cedar he chose for the temple’s beams, girders and pillars to last over 1,000 years. "There is no problem concerning durability or strength," Kato says. He traveled to Vancouver Island to select the wood originating from 1400-year-old trees.
Information summarized from: Nikkei courtesy of Canadian Embassy Translation Services, Tokyo |
November 30, 2007 |
Japan’s Oriental Land Company has announced that Cirque du Soliel’s new theatre at Tokyo Disneyland will open October 1, 2008. It will be called "Cirque du Soleil Theatre Tokyo" and will present entirely new shows. Group ticket sales have already begun.
Information summarized from: Nikkei Sangyo Shimbun courtesy of Canadian Embassy Translation Services, Tokyo |
November 28, 2007 |
Although some freight, primarily auto-related, is being carried by Chinese and Korean ships from Japan to Canada’s new container terminal in Prince Rupert, BC, Japanese shipping companies are taking a wait-and-see attitude before deciding whether to use the new port themselves. Specifically, they want to see how well Canadian National does at moving freight by rail from Prince Rupert to markets in the USA. If the railroad performs well through the winter, Japanese shippers may shift to Prince Rupert when they renew service contracts in spring of 2008.
Information summarized from: Nihon Kaiji Shimbun courtesy of Canadian Embassy Translation Services, Tokyo |
November 26, 2007 |
While in Japan to give a speech in Kitakyushu City, Manager Ry Smith of Canada's "Hydrogen Village" in Ontario is visiting universities and companies to look for useful technologies. At Hydrogen Village, over 30 companies are experimenting with hydrogen filling stations and fuel cell power. Smith says he also wants to work with Japanese companies in the Chinese automobile market, where fuel cells are likely to be widely used.
Information summarized from: Asahi Shimbun, Nikkan Kogyo Shimbun courtesy of Canadian Embassy Translation Services, Tokyo |
November 23, 2007 |
The awards ceremony for the second annual Maple Sweets recipe contest in Japan was held at the Canadian embassy in Tokyo. This year’s contest, in bakery and confectionery divisions, drew 117 entries. First prize of 300,000 yen (C $2,500) and a trophy went to Tomoko Nose of The Manhattan Makuhari for her confection, "And Maple." The contest aims to promote use of maple syrup and maple sugar by professional chefs in Japan. It was conducted by Queen Bee Garden of Tokyo (honey and maple product dealer) with co-sponsorship by the Canadian embassy and the Quebec Maple Syrup Product Association (Fédération des producteurs acéricoles du Québec) and support from the Federation of Japan Confectionery Associations.
Information summarized from: Nihon Shokuryo Shimbun courtesy of Canadian Embassy Translation Services, Tokyo |
November 21, 2007 |
Canada Pork International (CPI) and the Canadian Embassy in Tokyo sponsored an event to announce publication of the Japanese edition of The Canadian Pork Story, a book all about Canadian pork. Speakers from CPI, the Embassy, and the Alberta government told the audience about the safety and quality of Canadian pork and about the importance of the Japanese market.
Information summarized from: Shokuhin Shimbun courtesy of Canadian Embassy Translation Services, Tokyo |
November 5, 2007 |
 The 12th Foreign Chambers in Japan (FCIJ) Business Confidence Survey was conducted October 15-26, 2007. The results and analysis are now available online at the FCIJ website. The next survey will be conducted in April 2008. The results from that survey will be published early May 2008.
The FCIJ is an informal organization comprised of foreign chambers of commerce and business groups in Japan mainly for the purpose of information exchange and enhancement of the activities of the component organizations. |
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