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A Happy New Year to all of our readers! Last year, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Japan (CCCJ) experienced a number of significant changes and so, this year, I look forward to speaking with more members and other Canadians here to help share their stories.
Among the themes that came to the fore in 2017 was equality, diversity and inclusion and, more specifically, women’s rights. One need only read about Time magazine’s person of the year to understand the extent to which events in 2017 have influenced the course of this dialogue.
Now is the time for the conversation to take a new route: to address wider issues within businesses. Canada’s upholding of best practices in equality, diversity and inclusion is, perhaps, something to which Japan might aspire.
Consequently, I believe the chamber’s efforts to address global diversity management through a new committee will offer pointers to follow for Japanese global and domestic business operations. You will find out more about what three inspiring women are doing to make the committee a success.
Last year was an interesting period for international trade, with the fate of the Trans-Pacific Partnership agreement now in the hands of its 11 remaining signatories following the departure of the United States from the agreement. We take a look at the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership and what the new deal will bring for those nations involved.
Meanwhile, Canadian craft beer imports have found a friend in AMMS Japan. You can learn about some of the trials and tribulations in bringing craft beers to Japan, and what the future holds for the sector.
As we emerge from the holidays and get back to work, what better time to set yourself something to look forward to and start planning your next vacation? If you’re craving a little Canadian wilderness and want to share in its hidden gems, have a look at some of the best things to do across the country.
We are delighted to welcome the new General Delegate of Québec to Japan Luci Tremblay, who, only a few months into her job, already is enthusiastically sharing the bounty of Québec with Japan. Find out a little more about her role and plans.
Finally, we learn about both Canadian Solar, the first Canadian company in Japan to have an IPO, as well as the promise the industry holds for Japan.
To expand the CCCJ community, I encourage you to bring me any stories and ideas that you would like to share. I’d be only too happy to hear them and present them in this year’s issues of the The Canadian.
thecanadian.cccj.or.jp
