Story perspectives

Japan's Business Shifts: Profits, Healthier Products, and Diplomatic Tensions

12/30/2025

Summary

Story summary

Ajinomoto Co., Inc., via its Ajinomoto Build-Up Film (ABF) segment, projects 62.6 billion yen in profit by March 2026.
Daikin Industries, Ltd. and Kyocera Corporation are diversifying into semiconductor-related fields.
Glico and Calbee are launching healthier products.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has moved into the prime minister's residence, drawing criticism over her commute.
Japan's diplomacy with China over Taiwan is affecting events such as Anime Festival Asia.

History

Historical Context

Japan's economic bubble burst in 1991, leading to a prolonged recession known as the "Lost Decade." The Nikkei 225 index, which peaked at 38,915 in 1989, fell sharply, impacting major corporations like Ajinomoto, which reported profits of 62.6 billion yen amidst restructuring efforts. This period prompted firms like Daikin and Kyocera to innovate in semiconductors, reflecting Japan's need to adapt in a competitive global market.

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Story summary

Ajinomoto Co., Inc., via its Ajinomoto Build-Up Film (ABF) segment, projects 62.6 billion yen in profit by March 2026.
Daikin Industries, Ltd. and Kyocera Corporation are diversifying into semiconductor-related fields.
Glico and Calbee are launching healthier products.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has moved into the prime minister's residence, drawing criticism over her commute.
Japan's diplomacy with China over Taiwan is affecting events such as Anime Festival Asia.

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