Business Jan 14, 2021

Japanese firms take e-commerce livestream plunge as Chinese splash out

With China's online shopping market expected to grow, and with tourist numbers down, firms are seizing on the opportunity to sell through a new format.

Business Dec 20, 2020

Japan Post hopes demand for New Year's greetings cards rises amid pandemic

Online orders have increased about 20% from the previous year as people are refraining from going outside due to COVID-19, Japan Post said.

Business / Financial Markets | FOCUS Nov 9, 2020

Biden victory likely to boost Tokyo stocks; market eyes policy

Many analysts forecast the 225-issue Nikkei average will move between 23,000 and 24,000 toward the end of the year.

Business / Financial Markets | FOCUS Sep 17, 2020

Focus on snap poll as Suga's continuity policy gives market firm footing

Market participants are closely watching whether the new prime minister will dissolve the Lower House for a snap election to strengthen his grip on power.

Business / Economy | FOCUS Sep 1, 2020

Abe's departure after mixed economic results to test market confidence

Japan's longest-serving prime minister is leaving an economy that is smaller, badly hit by the pandemic and with more debt than when he returned to power in 2012.

National Jul 26, 2020

Tokyoites leaving bustle behind for space and nature as pandemic proves catalyst for change

As companies close offices in central Tokyo or encourage employees to work from home to stay safe from the coronavirus pandemic, young people are relocating to the suburbs where rents are cheaper, space less at a premium and nature nearer the doorstep. With Japanese work ...

Business / Corporate | FOCUS Jun 7, 2020

Japanese firms rush to develop cooler masks as summer approaches

Inventive companies are adding tricot, xylitol and even coolant packs to masks as medical experts warn using them in hot and humid weather might cause health problems.

National Mar 6, 2020

With schools closed, Japanese firms offer children easy access to e-learning

E-learning program providers are offering their services for free to help students keep up with their studies while schools in Japan remain closed over the coronavirus outbreak. Major manga publishers are taking the same step to keep students entertained as the government calls on students ...

Business Jan 28, 2020

Former nurse's fresh ideas transform struggling Hokkaido fishing business

In a small fishing village in Hokkaido, Shiho Tateoka rises at 6 a.m. and sends her three children off to school before starting a day of handling fish sales. When that's done, she's back on social media searching for more clients. The 43-year-old used to live ...

Business Mar 29, 2019

Cash-obsessed Japan slowly buying into digital payment systems

Every few meters along a shopping street near towering Tokyo Skytree, signs with the words "PayPay used here" can be seen promoting the availability of an electronic payment option, an option that remains a relatively uncommon offering in cash-obsessed Japan. Despite its reputation as one ...