Why Invest | Investing In Japan - USA (2024)

Why Invest | Investing In Japan - USA (1)

Japan recognizes the seriousness of the current COVID-19 pandemic and has been one of the world's leading examples of mitigating coronavirus infection rates. Likewise, its strong business environment has adapted to the changes necessary for both its employees and its customers to remain stable during such uncertain times. See how Japan's business ecosystem is making these changes at the below links:


- Full Version: Work Style Changes in Japan (YouTube)

- Short Version: Work Style Changes in Japan (YouTube)

Japan’s strong economy is helped by its economic sophistication and pro-business policies. Japan is the third-largest economy in the world and the most complex according to the World Bank.

The nation’s largest industries include automobiles, automotive parts manufacturing, electronic equipment, machine tools, chemicals, textiles, and processed foods. Japan’s top export destinations are the United States, China, South Korea, Thailand, and Hong Kong, giving the nation strong economic ties to its surrounding Asia-Pacific neighbors.

TheGlobal Competitiveness Report for 2019 ranked Japan the sixth most globally competitive country in the world, citing the nation’s large market size, business sophistication, quality of local suppliers, and strong international distribution controls as some of its most outstanding business features. Of the Fortune Global 500 companies, 52 are headquartered in Japan.

For companies seeking to establish a regional headquarters, Japan’s location also makes it ideal for conducting business in Japan and the rest of the Asia-Pacific region. Flights from Japan to surrounding cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Singapore, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Sydney) are short, affordable, and often available several times throughout the day, making it easier for businesses to plan trips around normal work hours.

In addition to its positive economic outlook, Japan is noted for its internal stability. The nation is considered one of the most politically stable countries in the world, as well as one of the safest to travel in for work or business.

A Strong Government Emphasis on R&D Investment

Japan has long been a face of national commitment to research and development. For over 20 years, Japan has ranked in the top three countries for total % of GDP devoted to research and development practices. As of 2018, for every 10,000 employees in Japan, 53 are research professionals, making Japan first among all G7 nations for its ratio of researchers to civilians.

National commitment to the development of new technologies and resources exists not only within the government, but also in the private sector. Japan has the highest number of patent applications per one million people among all countries. Japan also has some of the strongest intellectual property laws in the world, making it ideal for businesses with research and development interests. Additionally, Japan has produced 26 Nobel Prize laureates since 1949, the majority of them in physics, chemistry, and medicine.

Businesses can expect to find strong support for research and development activities in Japan: many municipal governments offer incentive packages to foreign companies who establish a research and development center in designated special economic development zones. Various municipal governments in Japan also offer incentive packages to foreign companies who hire skilled domestic labor as part of their business expansions. More details regarding these incentives can be found HERE.

Learn More with JETRO's Market Reports

JETRO creates tailored market reports that explore consumer trends, competitor activities, and market outlooks for various industries. These reports can be accessed by contacting the nearest regional JETRO office and scheduling a free business consultation.

Why Invest | Investing In Japan - USA (2)

Why Invest | Investing In Japan - USA (2024)

FAQs

Why should we invest in Japan? ›

One of the World's Largest Economies

Japan is the third-largest economy in the world and the most complex according to the World Bank. The nation's largest industries include automobiles, automotive parts manufacturing, electronic equipment, machine tools, chemicals, textiles, and processed foods.

Why does Japan invest in the United States? ›

Japanese investment in the United States is focused on research and development (R&D). In 2020, Japanese FDI accounted for $12 billion in R&D. Since 2000, R&D spending by Japanese affiliates in the United States has increased considerably. Japanese companies are the largest foreign contributors to U.S. export totals.

Why should foreign investors invest in Japan? ›

Greater market potential and innovation opportunities

Japan, with its world-leading R&D capabilities and technologies, offers foreign investors path-breaking opportunities fueled by the growth and distribution strategies of the government to realize a new form of capitalism.

Why Japan is the best country to start a business? ›

Japanese companies often exhibit a global outlook and a willingness to invest long-term in viable products and services. Japan is synonymous with quality and innovation and this goes hand-in-hand with Japanese companies' commitment and loyalty to business partners.

What is so special about Japan? ›

Japan's architecture, art, traditions, crafts. Also, its worldwide known pop culture (including manga, anime, and video games). It's something that definitely only Japan can offer. No other country contains the same characteristics.

Why is Japan important to the economy? ›

The economy of Japan is a highly developed/advanced social market economy, often referred to as an East Asian model. It is the third-largest in the world by nominal GDP and the fourth-largest by purchasing power parity (PPP). It is the world's second-largest developed economy. Japan is a member of both the G7 and G20.

How does the US benefit from Japan? ›

The U.S.-Japan economic relationship is strong and mutually advantageous. The two economies are highly integrated via trade in goods and services—they are large markets for each other's exports and important sources of imports. More importantly, Japan and the United States are closely connected via capital flows.

Does Japan have a better economy than the US? ›

If we measure by growth in real gross domestic product (GDP), without considering changes in population, Japan's economic growth is far behind that of the United States.

How much does the US rely on Japan? ›

Japan is one of the most important trade and investment partners for the United States. In 2021, bilateral U.S.-Japan trade in goods and services was worth $280 billion.

What are the benefits of investing in another country? ›

International investing may help U.S. investors to spread their investment risk among foreign companies and markets in addition to U.S. companies and markets. Growth. International investing takes advantage of the potential for growth in some foreign economies, particularly in emerging markets.

What are the positive effects of foreign investors? ›

Economic growth

FDI boosts the manufacturing and services sector which results in the creation of jobs and helps to reduce unemployment rates in the country. Increased employment translates to higher incomes and equips the population with more buying powers, boosting the overall economy of a country.

What is Japan's attitude towards foreign investment? ›

The Japanese government actively welcomes and solicits foreign investment and has set ambitious goals for increasing inbound FDI. Despite Japan's wealth, high level of development, and general acceptance of foreign investment, inbound FDI stocks, as a share of GDP, are the lowest in the OECD.

Is Japan more developed than USA? ›

GDP per capita is considered a baseline when comparing two economies. Using this measure, Trump's comments are founded, with the US ahead of Japan in rankings from both the International Monetary Fund (US:11th place, Japan:28th place) and the World Bank (US:9th place, Japan:22nd place).

What makes Japan the best country? ›

Japan is known worldwide for its traditional arts, including tea ceremonies, calligraphy and flower arranging. The country has a legacy of distinctive gardens, sculpture and poetry. Japan is home to more than a dozen UNESCO World Heritage sites and is the birthplace of sushi, one of its most famous culinary exports.

What is the most successful business in Japan? ›

The biggest company in Japan is Toyota Motors, and it has been for a while now. According to Forbes 2000 list, it's also the 10th biggest company in the world. You might think it's strange that Toyota, an automobile manufacturer, is the largest company in Japan in the year 2022.

What is the main product of Japan? ›

Japan's main agricultural product is rice, and most rice eaten in Japan is home-grown. Since Japan has little arable land compared to its population, it cannot grow enough wheat, soybeans, or other major crops to feed all its citizens.

Why Japan developed so fast? ›

The low cost of imported technology allowed for rapid industrial growth. Productivity was greatly improved through new equipment, management, and standardization. MITI gained the ability to regulate all imports with the abolition of the Economic Stabilization Board and the Foreign Exchange Control Board in August 1952.

Does Japan rely on the US? ›

First, Japan is firmly allied with the United States in the Cold War against communism. Second, Japan relies on American military strength and limits its own defense forces to a minimum. Third, Japan emphasizes economic diplomacy in its world affairs.

Why is Japan a US ally? ›

LONE ALLY. For the past seven decades, Japan, which gave up the right to wage war after its defeat in World War Two, has relied on the United States for protection. In return for its promise to defend the country, the U.S. gets bases that allow it to maintain a major military presence in East Asia.

Does Japan support the United States? ›

Under the alliance, Japan and the United States closely work together, sharing roles and responsibilities not only on bilateral issues, but on regional issues in the Asia-Pacific and global issues as well.

Do Americans depend on the Japanese for consumer goods? ›

U.S. consumers rely on goods from Japanese brands like Mitsubishi, Nintendo, and Yamaha to power their everyday lives. They also turn to Japanese products to capture special occasions: many of the top-performing camera companies in the world are headquartered in Japan.

Why is Japan the 3rd largest economy? ›

Japan has the world's third-largest economy, having achieved remarkable growth in the second half of the 20th Century after the devastation of World War Two. Its role in the international community is considerable. It is a major aid donor, and a source of global capital and credit.

Is Japan the biggest economy in the world? ›

Japan is one of the world's largest economies and is currently at rank 3. If this is calculated per inhabitant, taking purchasing power parity into account, then Japan ranks 38th in the list of the richest countries. Inflation in Japan in 2022 was around 2.50%.

Does the US owe money to Japan? ›

However, this has declined over time, and as of 2022 they controlled approximately 25% of foreign-owned debt. As of January 2023, the five countries owning the most US debt are Japan ($1.1 trillion), China ($859 billion), the United Kingdom ($668 billion), Belgium ($331 billion), and Luxembourg ($318 billion).

Is Japan in debt with the US? ›

Investors in Japan and China hold significant shares of U.S. public debt. Together, as of September 2022, they accounted for nearly $2 trillion, or about 8 percent of DHBP. While China's holdings of U.S. debt have declined over the past decade, Japan has slightly increased their purchases of U.S. Treasury securities.

What does the US buy the most of from Japan? ›

The top import categories (2-digit HS) in 2020 were: vehicles ($40 billion), machinery ($27 billion), electrical machinery ($16 billion), optical and medical instruments ($6.0 billion), and pharmaceuticals ($4.9 billion). U.S. total imports of agricultural products from Japan totaled $831 million in 2020.

Which country is best for investment and why? ›

Switzerland is one of the best countries to invest in. It has one of the lowest federal corporate tax rates in the world, at 8.5%, allowing businesses to save a significant amount of money on their profits. Switzerland's innovation performance is 142.4% of the EU average.

What to look for when investing in a foreign country? ›

Here are the factors you should consider when choosing which international companies and countries to invest in.
  • Political events. ...
  • Economic and social events. ...
  • Currency exchange risk. ...
  • Transparency and access to information. ...
  • Costs and legal remedies. ...
  • Illiquidity. ...
  • Different market operations.
Apr 3, 2023

What are the main advantages of foreign trade? ›

International trade allows countries to expand their markets and access goods and services that otherwise may not have been available domestically. As a result of international trade, the market is more competitive. This ultimately results in more competitive pricing and brings a cheaper product home to the consumer.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of foreign investment? ›

  • Advantages of Foreign Direct Investment.
  • Economic Development Stimulation.
  • Easy International Trade.
  • Employment and Economic Boost.
  • Development of Human Capital Resources.
  • Tax Incentives.
  • Resource Transfer.
  • Disadvantages of Foreign Direct Investment. Hindrance to Domestic Investment.

How are foreign investments affecting the US economy? ›

According to research by the Department of Commerce, foreign investment supported some sixteen million U.S. jobs [PDF] in 2019, or 10.1 percent of the total labor force. On average, foreign firms pay higher salaries than their domestic competitors; they are also disproportionately involved in manufacturing.

What is Japan's foreign policy towards the US? ›

Japan, a U.S. treaty ally since 1951, is a significant U.S. partner in several foreign policy areas, particularly security and trade. Shared security goals include meeting the challenge of an increasingly powerful China and countering threats from North Korea.

Which country invest the most in Japan? ›

Japan's FDI stock was estimated at about USD 232.31 billion in 2021 and 256.93 billion in 2021.
...
FDI STOCKS BY COUNTRY AND INDUSTRY.
Main Investing Countries2020, in %
United States27.0
Singapore15.3
France13.2
Netherlands9.0
3 more rows

What was the main reason Japan accepted foreign influence? ›

Kaikoku advocates argued that in order for Japan to maintain its autonomy and independence, it would need to look outward and embrace Western ways and teachings. By opening the nation to foreign influence, they maintained, Japan would be able to strengthen their nation and catch up to leading Western states.

Which country is good Japan or USA? ›

Quality of life
JapanUnited States
Civil rights:8883
Health:9271
Climate:5466
Cost of Living:2934
2 more rows

Why is Japan healthier than America? ›

Fish and plants are the biggest sources of protein in the Japanese diet — and reliance on red meat and animal fats is much lower than in America. By now, most people know that lean sources of protein are an important part of every human's healthy diet — regardless of their eating habits.

Is cost of living higher in Japan or USA? ›

In the US, the average price per square foot to buy a residence in the city center is around $335, whereas in Japan a comparable figure is $760. This is an approximate 57% increase. However, on the whole, house prices are generally lower in Japan than the US, especially since the Covid pandemic.

Why do we love Japan? ›

Japan is one of the oldest civilizations and has a beautiful and diverse history. The stunning, diverse scenery with mountains and breathtaking views, which are much appreciated by the Japanese, offers so many different experiences that attract tourists from all corners of the world.

Why do people love Japanese culture? ›

Japanese traditional culture is very special and original, and it's to present the beauty of the country. Also, Japan has developed different culture of futuristic and modern which is totally different from the former. Japan is the great example where historical/traditional and high-tech/modern can coexist.

What is sold most in Japan? ›

Consumer Electronics

Electronics is one of the most lucrative markets for sellers in Japan, with an average revenue per user that far exceeds other listed countries. Electronics in Japan is one of the most demanded products in Japan.

What American companies are successful in Japan? ›

Some well-known American-based companies in Japan: GE, Apple, Dell, IBM, Hewlett-Packard, Google, Coca-Cola, Adidas,Nike, Harley-Davidson, Citibank, Bank of America (Merrill Lynch), Aflac, American Express, JP Morgan, Morgan Stanley, Prudential, Goldman Sachs, Procter & Gamble, Johnson & Johnson, Hard Rock Café, Tony ...

What does Japan value the most? ›

In Japan, some of the core values are thinking of others, doing your best, not giving up, respecting your elders, knowing your role, and working in a group. These concepts are taught explicitly and implicitly from nursery school into the working world.

Why is Japan allies with the US? ›

The alliance began during the U.S. occupation after World War II. The United States pledged to defend Japan, which adopted a pacifist constitution, in exchange for maintaining a large military presence in the country. There are more than eighty U.S. military facilities in Japan.

Why do Japanese want to move to America? ›

Japanese immigrants began their journey to the United States in search of peace and prosperity, leaving an unstable homeland for a life of hard work and the chance to provide a better future for their children.

What does Japan get from trading with the US? ›

In 2021, of the $75.0 billion in U.S. exports to Japan, the top commodity sectors were Agricultural Goods, (19.5%) Chemicals, Plastics, Rubber and Leather Products (18.8%), and Oils, Minerals, Lime and Cement (16.7%).

Which country is the largest investor in the US? ›

In 2021, no country had a higher foreign direct investment (FDI) position in the United States than Japan, followed by the Netherlands and Canada.
...
CharacteristicFDI in billion U.S. dollars
Japan690.02
Netherlands629.52
Canada527.9
United Kingdom512.43
9 more rows
Sep 30, 2022

Who is Japan strongest ally? ›

LONE ALLY. For the past seven decades, Japan, which gave up the right to wage war after its defeat in World War Two, has relied on the United States for protection. In return for its promise to defend the country, the U.S. gets bases that allow it to maintain a major military presence in East Asia.

How did Japan forgive the US? ›

The American occupation of Japan ended in 1952, after the U.S. and Japan signed a security treaty for a “peace of reconciliation” in San Francisco in 1951. The agreement let the U.S. maintain military bases there, and a revision in 1960 said the U.S. would come to Japan's defense in an attack.

Is it worth a American move to Japan? ›

Is Japan a good place for North American expats? U.S. News and World Report ranked Japan the second-best country in the world to live in. North American expats can enjoy a high standard of living in Japan with its stable economy, government, and robust social services.

Where do most Japanese live in America? ›

Southern California has the largest Japanese American population in North America and the city of Gardena holds the densest Japanese American population in the 48 contiguous states.

What percentage of the US is Japanese? ›

Comprise for 7.77% of the Asian American population and 0.28% of the US population. Fewer Japanese have immigrated to the US since 1990-2000 and those already in this country have high rates of inter-racial marriage. Leading US States for Japanese American population are California, Hawaii, Oregon and Washington.

What is the biggest export from America to Japan? ›

The main products that United States exported to Japan are Petroleum Gas ($8.76B), Packaged Medicaments ($3.14B), and Corn ($3.11B). During the last 26 years the exports of United States to Japan have increased at an annualized rate of 0.28%, from $66.7B in 1995 to $71.8B in 2021.

Does America and Japan have a good relationship? ›

From the late 20th century and onwards, the United States and Japan have had firm and active political, economic and military relationships. US government officials generally consider Japan to be one of its closest allies and partners.

Who is the richest investor in USA? ›

Not just the richest but also the most popular investor in the world Warren Buffett started his investment journey well before he reached the age of 10.

Where in America has the best ROI? ›

1. Wyoming: 203% 5-year ROI on College. Wyoming has some of the highest wages for high school graduates: $31,936 a year, on average. This results in a 43 percent increase in pay for earning a bachelor's degree.

Who are the richest stock investors in USA? ›

Top 10 Richest Stock Market Investors In The World 2023
  • Warren Buffet. ...
  • Ken Griffin. ...
  • Jim Simons. ...
  • Ray Dalio. ...
  • Carl Icahn. ...
  • Steve Cohen. ...
  • Paul Tudor Jones. ...
  • George Soros.

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