Business

The skies between Akita, Japan, and Taiwan are set to remain busy, as charter flights linking these two vibrant regions have been extended until March 2026. Operated by Taiwan’s budget airline Tigerair Taiwan, these flights have been a resounding success since their launch in December 2023, boasting an impressive 89% …

On the 6th, Seven & I Holdings, the parent company of the globally recognized 7-Eleven convenience store chain, unveiled its management strategy for the fiscal year ending February 2031. The ambitious plan includes opening approximately 1,000 new stores in Japan’s already crowded domestic convenience store market and an additional 1,300 …

Introduction In the sprawling fields of Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, a troubling trend is taking root. Over the past decade, the number of children stepping up to take over their family farms has dropped by a staggering 40%. This decline, fueled by harsh economic conditions, the demanding nature of farming, …

In a groundbreaking move, the Japanese government, led by Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, has decided to pivot its agricultural policy toward increasing rice production. This decision, set to be formally announced at a ministerial meeting on August 5, 2025, comes as a direct response to recent rice price hikes triggered …

On August 4, 2025, Ezaki Glico, the renowned Japanese confectionery company, announced a groundbreaking achievement: the registration of Pocky’s distinctive long, thin stick shape as a “three-dimensional trademark.” This milestone is more than just a legal victory—it’s a celebration of Pocky’s enduring legacy as a beloved snack, both in Japan …

Introduction: A Landmark Wage Increase In a significant move for Japan’s workforce, the Central Minimum Wage Council announced on August 4, 2025, that the national weighted average minimum wage will rise to 1,118 yen per hour for the fiscal year 2025. This increase of 63 yen, or 6.0%, from the …

In Japan, the government stockpiles rice as a strategic reserve to ensure food security and stabilize market prices. Recently, however, this system has faced a significant challenge: businesses are canceling or reducing their orders for reserve rice under the non-competitive contract system, known as “zuii keiyaku” in Japanese. An investigation …

In today’s entertainment landscape, few companies have mastered the art of blending cultural trends with business acumen as effectively as Sony. By harnessing the synergy between anime and music, Sony has not only solidified its position as an industry leader but also accelerated its global expansion. From blockbuster anime films …

When you search for “convenience store in Japanese,” you’re likely curious about the unique world of Japanese convenience stores, known as konbini (コンビニ). These aren’t just your average corner stores—they’re a cultural phenomenon in Japan, blending convenience, quality, and innovation in ways that set them apart globally. This article is …

On July 29, 2025, Japan’s public broadcaster, NHK, announced the launch of its new internet service, “NHK ONE,” set to begin in October 2025. This innovative platform promises to revolutionize how viewers access NHK’s content by integrating existing apps and expanding offerings, including the much-anticipated addition of local programming from …