Comments by the speakers: Invest Japan Symposium 2008 in London

"Never before has it been more important for international corporations, governments and central banks to cooperate in order to tackle the current global economic crisis. Japan recognises that foreign direct investment can bring about three positive effects; economic development through the introduction of new technology; regional development through the creation of employment; and an improvement in the quality of life through a wider variety of consumer choices. I hope that with these advantages you can begin to consider Japan as a strong investment opportunity."
Masahiko Saito , Minister (Commercial), Embassy of Japan in the UK

"Japan is of key importance to the UK right across the political and economic spectrum. It's a major market for UK goods and services and an absolutely vital source of inward investment. The Japanese market remains a major test of quality and is one of the best proving grounds in the world for new products. There is a vast array of trade and investment between our two countries and we have much to celebrate and much in common which will hopefully lead to many more investment opportunities."
Susan Haird CB , Deputy Chief Executive, UK Trade & Investment

"The Japanese government is working hard to improve the business and investment environment through revised laws and regulations, telecoms infrastructure and intellectual property rights - everything a business needs to deliver high value creation. By bringing the UK and Japan closer together it is a win/win situation for both partners. We hope this symposium is a step towards many more businesses pursuing investment opportunities in Japan."
Yasuo Hayashi , Chairman and CEO, JETRO

"At a time when trade and investment opportunities are in danger of a sharp decline, it is important for Japan and the UK to reinvigorate their unique and remarkable 150-year-old bilateral relationship. With the UK fixed upon remaining one of the world's most open economies, and Japan setting itself ambitious targets to increase FDI year-on-year, international collaboration is of vital importance. Inward investment can bring valuable capital and jobs and boost the competitiveness of industry in both our countries."
Sir Philip Hampton , Chairman, J Sainsbury plc, Vice President, Confederation of British Industries (CBI)

"Increasing FDI in Japan is considered a pillar of Japan's economic and financial management and structural reforms. Five recommendations have been outlined for the drastic expansion of FDI in Japan; facilitating mergers and acquisitions; reviewing FDI regulations; establishing priority sectors; reducing business costs and improving transparency; and regional revitalisation through foreign capital. With our two countries working towards mutual economic growth, we hope to see even more investment from the UK in future."
Masaharu Shibata , Chairman, NGK Insulators Ltd., Member of the Expert Committee on FDI Promotion

"FDI levels will decrease in the coming year and competition will be fierce."
Courtney Fingar , Editor, fDi Magazine

"Japan has a huge domestic market and this represents an enormous opportunity for cross-cultural collaboration and partnership. Building relationships in Japan can take time but, once established, those relationships may endure longer than with other cultures."
Miles Flint , Former President, Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications AB

"The current weakness of the pound means Japan is currently a fantastic business opportunity. However, it's very important to have people in Japan with strong business links and cultural understanding in order to implement your ideas and potential."
Sebastian Conran , Managing Director, Studio Conran

"The Kobe Medical Industry Development Project is a focal point for the R&D of highly advanced medical technology and is helping to promote foreign investments in Kobe."
Tatsuo Yada , The Mayor of Kobe City

"There are obviously cultural barriers but these shouldn't be seen as a hindrance. Japan offers the opportunity to work on different projects. It is a solid and secure environment in which to work and we found JETRO of great assistance."
Tom Stobbs , Account Manager, Moving Brands Japan

"JETRO has helped more than 350 foreign firms to set up in Japan in the past three years alone and the Japanese government is doing everything it can to reform regulations and remove barriers to investment in order to encourage FDI."
Takashi Funaki , Director General, JETRO London