Redefining Japan's Business with Diversity

In recent years, the number of women-led businesses in Japan is increasing as Japan is more openly embracing gender equality. Traditionally, Japan’s business environment has been characterized by male dominated leadership. But this landscape is changing as women entrepreneurs, who have overcome societal and institutional barriers to start up successful ventures particularly in different fields, are emerging. The companies, all founded by women, span industries from technology, to fashion, food services, all the way to sustainability.

These entrepreneurs bring innovative solutions to the modern consumer needs, while blending traditional Japanese values with contemporary business practices. In the tech space, for example, women founders have stepped up to lead on artificial intelligence, e-commerce and digital transformation, looking to simplify processes and enhance user experiences. Often, their ventures are built on the back of platforms that solve problems faced by certain demographics.

Women-led enterprises to fix society’s problems have also taken flight in the social sector. For instance, some companies adopt sustainability as their focus of promotion, with the aim of reducing waste, supporting local artisans and in turn developing their communities. Women founders in fashion and retail are reshaping the market, adopting eco-friendly materials, ethical production practices, and novel designs in response to an increasing need for sustainable and representative products. The appearance of women entrepreneurs in Japan is on the rise and giving inspiration to the coming generations. Not only are they helping reshape Japan’s entrepreneurial ecosystem but they are also paving the path for a more diverse and inclusive leadership in business across the country.

It is with the view of staying updated with the emerging trends in the region’s business landscape that Asia Business Outlook has come up with a special issue containing stories of leaders who have demonstrated their capability through their expertise. To strengthen the business landscape with their tightly-knit and result-oriented approach, they are setting new standards of effectiveness.

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