The Canadian Winter 2017

The Canadian A QUARTERLY MAGAZINE OF THE CANADIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE IN JAPAN | WINTER 2017 | VOLUME 17 | ISSUE 01

A NEW TRADE POLICY FRAMEWORK WOULD PROVIDE A MAJOR BOOST

*

Ian Burney | Fully Operational *AMBASSADOR IAN BURNEY ON THE ENORMOUS POTENTIAL TO GROW COMMERCIAL TIES BETWEEN JAPAN AND CANADA

The Canadian

CONTENTS

C

WINTER 2017 VOLUME 17 ISSUE 01

Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Japan La Chambre de commerce du Canada au Japon The Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Japan is a private sector, not-for-profit business organization that has, since 1979, promoted the development of commerce between Canada and Japan.

Chairman Ron Haigh Toyota Motor Corporation ronhaigh@icloud.com Vice-Chairman Neil van Wouw Vanten K.K. neil@vanten.com

05

Executive Director Jim Zhang jim.zhang@cccj.or.jp Senior Advisor David Cotter david.cotter@cccj.or.jp Office Manager Jody Pang jody.pang@cccj.or.jp 7F Parkside Sepia 3-13-10 Nishi-Azabu Minato-ku, Tokyo Japan 106-0031 Tel: +81 (0)3 5775-9500 Fax: +81 (0)3 5775-9507

Canadian actress Shelley Sweeney, the subject of our CCCJ member profile, as co-pilot Catherine Burger in the Toho movie Godzilla vs.

Mecha-Godzilla (1993).

05 07

Executive Director’s Note & Advisor’s Message 08

www.cccj.or.jp LinkedIn: cccjapon Facebook: www.facebook.com/cccjapon Twitter: @cccjapon YouTube: cccjapon

Alberta Special Report 010 015

Published by

GPlusMedia GPlus Media K.K. 4F Higashi-Azabu IS Bldg., 1-8-1 Higashi-Azabu Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan 106-0044

026

Cover Story

Embassy Message 016

Member Profile

019

Housing Trends

025

Editor-in-Chief: Jeff W. Richards [ jeff@gplusmedia.com] Art Director: Niklas Wendt

Chairman’s Perspective

Chamber Insights

Stratford Special Report

Designer: David Jaskiewicz Contributors: Andrea Clements, Louis Daignault, Adam German, John Kastner, Robert Sakai-Irvine For advertising inquiries: ads@gplusmedia.com Tel: +81 (0)3 5403-7781, Fax: +81 (0)3 5403-2775 www.gplusmedia.com

C

Get The Canadian in digital Get it for free at bit.ly/thecanadian

Asia Pacific View 020 / Timeline 022 / Calendar 024 Members Directory 030 / New Members 032 / Chamber Voices 033 Retrography 034

On the cover: His Excellency Ian Burney, the ambassador of Canada to Japan, as photographed by Benjamin Parks in the stone garden on the fourth floor of the Canadian Embassy in Tokyo.

The Canadian is the official publication of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Japan (CCCJ), published quarterly in Tokyo.

The views and opinions expressed herein are solely the opinions and views of their authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the CCCJ or GPlusMedia. © 2017 GPlusMedia Co. Ltd. All rights reserved.

The Canadian / 03

Chairman’s Perspective

RON HAIGH

C

CCCJ CHAIRMAN

THE BIG PICTURE I like a hands-on approach. As with the psychologists Kahneman and Tversky in Michael Lewis's The Undoing Project, the founder of the Toyota Production System, Taiichiro Ohno, understood that people usually fall victim to misperceptions and so we need to observe, measure and talk with experts to solve problems. Why is that? Instead of effectively addressing troubles on the shop floor or in the market, people tend to tackle only a counterfeit of the problem they’ve assembled in their heads. Close but no cigar. In the Toyota tradition of genchi genbutsu (“actual place, actual thing” aka “getcha boots on”), going to the work site (observe) to identify (measure) and solve problems through consensus with people directly involved in the work (the experts) is essential to dispelling false notions.

With 2017 ushering in a time of uncertainty for many companies, two means to provide alleviation are operating within the context a common trade and service framework among different markets (a nafta, tpp or cjepa, for example), and partnering with other organizations to achieve mutual goals.

Regarding promoting new frameworks, we look forward to the third joint meeting of the Japan-Canada Chambers Council (Tokyo and Sendai, April 5 to 7). This forum seeks to advance dialogue among Canadian and Japanese chambers about improving bilateral trade and investment.

As with the March 2016 Vancouver meeting, I expect that many participants from business, government as well as diplomatic representatives will gather to identify advocacy priorities in such areas as trade, energy, technology and infrastructure. I hope that your organization will take part, and in doing so, raise your company's profile in the Japanese-Canadian marketplace and discover new business opportunities with other companies here and in Canada.

Speaking of business opportunities, the cccj will publish an extensive and practical guide to assist with investing in provinces, prefectures and other localities. Out this spring, the guide will direct you to information on investment incentives and expert advice available across Canada and Japan.

On the subject of alliances, one partnership that has helped the cccj to effectively meet its mandate last year was the one we enjoyed with the Embassy of Canada to Japan.

Whether at our annual shinnenkai (New Year gathering) or other events, I hope you will take the opportunity to welcome Ian Burney, Canada’s new ambassador to Japan.

This issue of The Canadian marks my second year serving as cccj chairman. True to the spirit of genchi genbutsu, this issue zooms in on Alberta Minister of Economic Development and Trade Daron Bilous' visit to Japan; Stratford, Ontario’s transformation from a cultural to an advanced technology hub and the Canadian Paralympic organization’s early preparation for Tokyo 2020.

Time, place and occasion are the lodestars for appropriate behaviour in Japan. Accordingly, the focus for the chamber in 2017 will never be too far from that of “Canada 150” — the commemorations of our country’s 150th year since confederation. Such a young country with so much potential. Please help us celebrate by taking part in a year-long calendar of cccj events!

The Canadian / 05

Executive Director’s Note

JIM ZHANG

E

CCCJ EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Happy New Year to all cccj members and partners!

As one of my New Year’s resolutions for 2017, I have committed myself to bouldering on a weekly basis. In the process of learning the basics of bouldering and improving on my skills, I have learned that there are stunning similarities between the sport and working at the cccj. With both, especially at the beginning, it’s difficult to have a strong grip. It takes some time to gain the strength and techniques necessary to improve. Additionally, it needs the mental agility to deal with every issue step by step, or rock by rock, and there will be times that you’ll fall from the wall — perhaps more often than anticipated. However, these “failures” will eventually lead to success with determination and effort. Things may get rocky from time to time, but with a “don’t give up” mentality, it’s helped me to see the chamber in a new light.

This year is a very important one for Canada and for our chamber. It marks the 150th anniversary of the confederation of Canada. Here at the cccj, we’ve planned year-long celebrations: from a New Year’s party to welcome our new ambassador to Japan, to our annual Maple Leaf gala in the autumn and our much anticipated Canada Day in the summer. This year, the cccj will also introduce a brand new networking event, inviting young professionals in Tokyo to interact with like-minded people in our chamber.

The cccj is also developing creative ways to raise funds to invite more students who were affected by the 2011 Tohoku disaster to Tokyo to experience working in international organizations.

We will also be offering membership discounts to companies and individuals that wish to join the chamber this year. To celebrate the 150th anniversary of Canadian confederation, the cccj will offer a limited 15 percent discount on membership fees. Please contact info@cccj.or.jp for more details.

The cccj office team is fully committed to our chamber members.

I hope you are looking forward to 2017 as much as we are. Our best wishes for everyone in this new year.

Advisor’s Message

A

DAVID COTTER

CCCJ SENIOR ADVISOR

New Year's Day is every man's birthday. — Charles Lamb I was at home in Canada over the Christmas and New Year holidays. So many of my friends and so much of the year-end media coverage complained about how bad 2016 had been. I almost felt guilty telling them that 2016 had been the best year of my life. It was my first full year in Japan and I had enjoyed amazing food, tasty sake, great travel and excellent skiing. My family had taken to Tokyo easily and it had become a wonderful second home. And I had been working at the CCCJ since September — truly the best and most enjoyable job of my life.

I can’t tell you how much I’m looking forward to an even better 2017.

Oh yes, I will travel with my family, ski and drink sake (not all at the same time), but I’m most looking forward to the many new and wonderful opportunities ahead at the chamber. In the last few months, we’ve gained new members, held spectacular events and started new committees dedicated to building and growing the CCCJ. Our new team is committed to providing you — our members, partners and sponsors — with every opportunity to meet new people, enjoy new experiences and expand your business in Japan or Canada. I look forward to seeing each of you soon.

Best wishes for a happy and prosperous 2017. Ganbatte (“go for it”)!

The Canadian / 07

Special Report

S

MISSION: POSSIBLE

Alberta and Japan 47 YEARS AND COUNTING Deron Bilous, Alberta’s Minister of Economic Development and Trade, touched down in Tokyo on Nov. 16, 2016, to kick off a 12-day trade mission to Japan and China. This was the second mission by an Alberta minister to Japan – and Minister Bilous’ second to the Asia-Pacific basin – within a year, making it clear that Alberta remains committed to strengthening ties with the region.

In fact, Japan is one of Alberta’s longest-standing trading partners. The province’s first international office opened in Tokyo in 1970 and continues to play a critical role in connecting Alberta and Japanese businesses. Today, Japan is also the province’s third-largest trading partner, accounting for 15 per cent of non-U.S. exports. The multifaceted relationship between the two regions also extends beyond business to include cultural and sports exchanges, educational initiatives and municipal twinnings.

“Building strong international partnerships and promoting access to new markets for innovative Alberta businesses is a key priority for our government,” said Minister Bilous. “We are as committed as ever to working with Japan in finding new, mutually beneficial opportunities through international trade agreements or by helping business leaders connect from across the Pacific.”

Alberta is looking to leverage its reputation as a responsible resource developer and its extensive knowledge of the energy sector into other industries. From adding value to the strong oil and gas sector, to renewable energy, information and communications technology, agriculture and more, Alberta companies are making big strides – and international partners are taking notice.

In Japan, Hokuetsu Kishu Paper Inc. (hkp), a Tokyobased company and the second-largest printing and communication paper manufacturing company in the country, announced its increased collaboration with InnoTech Alberta and Alberta Innovates to further the development of cellulose nanocrystals (cnc). cnc is an

08 / The Canadian

His Excellency Ian Burney Ambassador of Canada to Japan, met with Hon. Deron Bilous Minister of Economic Development and Trade, to discuss areas of collaboration in trade and investment.

emerging green nanomaterial produced through the pulping process by its subsidiary Alberta-Pacific Forest Products Industries Inc. (Al-Pac).

“We are very pleased with the efforts of InnoTech Alberta and the support we have received from the Government of Alberta,” commented Mr. Kishimoto, President and ceo of hkp. “We believe in the development of sustainable green products to meet growing consumer demand and believe cnc has the potential to create new and enhanced markets for hkp.”

Innovation in forestry – including cnc development – and food exports featured heavily in the minister’s agenda during his visit to Japan. Trade is strong in both areas between Alberta and Japan. In 2015 alone, Alberta’s agrifood exports to Japan totaled $1.1 billion, making up nearly one third of Canada’s overall agri-food exports to Japan.

However, there is significant room for growth, especially in light of the organic equivalency arrangement with Japan that came into effect in 2015.

Opportunities for Japanese investors are also growing in Alberta. The province remains an attractive place for investment, and has recently introduced new tax credit for investors. The Alberta Investor Tax Credit (aitc) offers a 30 per cent tax credit to investors who provide capital to Alberta small businesses carrying out research and development

特集記事

In 2015 alone, Alberta’s agrifood exports to Japan totaled C$1.1 billion

”

or commercializing new technology, new products or new processes. It will also be applicable to businesses engaged in interactive, digital media development, video postproduction, digital animation and tourism.

Additionally, Alberta’s energy sector has new prospects on the horizon with the federal government’s approval of two major pipeline projects and opec's announcement of a meaningful reduction in crude oil production starting in January 2017.

“This past year has been challenging for Alberta in a number of ways. From the low price of oil, to massive wildfires in the North,” said Minister Bilous. “Our province is resilient.

We’ve risen to each occasion and continue to be a dynamic place to live, work and do business.”

“There will be different challenges in the economy of the future compared to the past 30 years, and resilience will be one of Alberta’s greatest assets,” added David Anderson, Managing Director of the Alberta Japan Office. “But the province’s strong commitment to its partners – like Japan – will remain its greatest strength. Alberta has 47 years of continuous presence in the Japanese market, and we will continue to nurture that relationship in the years to come.”

ミッション: ポッシブル

S

アルバータ州と日本

47年の歴史そして未来へ

2016年11月16日、アルバータ州のデ ロン・ビラス経済開発・貿易大臣が東京に 到着し、貿易使節団による12日間に亘る日 本・中国訪問がスタートしました。同年、ア ルバータ州の大臣が使節団を率いて日本 を訪問するのはこれが二回目。デロン・ビ ラス大臣自身の環太平洋地域訪問も二度 目となります。アルバータ州がこの地域と の更なる結び付きの強化に力を入れている ことの証と言えるでしょう。 実際に日本は、アルバータ州にとって 最も歴史ある貿易相手国の一つです。アル バータ州が東京に初の海外事務所を開設 したのは1970年。この事務所はアルバー タ州と日本の企業を結びつける上で、現在 も変わらず重要な役割を果たしています。 今日の日本は、アルバータ州にとって三番 目に大きな貿易相手国であり、米国を除く 海外輸出の15%を占めます。両地域間のパ ートナーシップは多岐に渡り、ビジネスを 超え、文化・スポーツ交流、教育プログラ ム、地方自治体の姉妹提携にまで広がって います。 ビラス大臣は次のように話しています。 「強固な国際的連携を構築し、新市場へ のアクセスを広げることは州政府の最優先 課題です。太平洋を越えたビジネスリーダ ーの結び付きを手助けしていくため、そし て、国際貿易協定を通じて互いに有益とな る新しい機会を創造していくために、今後 も変わることなく日本との協働に注力して いきます」 アルバータ州は責任ある資源開発者と しての高い評価と、エネルギー部門の幅広 い知識を他産業にも生かすことを目指して います。力強い石油・ガス部門に付加価値 を与えることはもちろん、再生可能エネル ギー、情報通信技術、農業の分野に至るま で、アルバータ州の企業は大きく前進して おり、海外のパートナーにも大変注目され ています。 日本では、東京に本社を置く製紙会 社、北越紀州製紙株式会社（HKP）が、セ ルロースナノクリスタル（CNC）の開発を さらに進めるため、Inno Tech Alberta およびAlberta Innovatesとの協力関係 を強化すると発表しました。CNCは、子会 社Alberta-Pacific Forest Products Industries Inc.（ Al-Pac）によるパルプ 化処理で生産される、環境に優しい新ナノ 素材です。 HKPの岸本代表取締役社長CEOは 次のように述べています。「 I n n oTe c h Albertaのご尽力とアルバータ州政府のご 支援をいただくことができたことを、大変 嬉しく思っております。我々は、消費者の

需要に応えることができる、持続可能なグ リーン製品が開発されることを信じていま す。CNCが当社にとって大きな新市場を 生み出す可能性を持つことは間違いありま せん」 ビラス大臣による今回の訪日議題の中 で特に重点が置かれたのは、CNC開発を 含む林業におけるイノベーションと食品輸 出部門でした。どちらの分野もアルバータ 州と日本間の貿易は非常に活発です。アル バータ州は2015年の一年間だけで、総額 11億ドルの農産物・食品を日本に輸出して います。これはカナダ全体の対日農産食品 輸出額のほぼ3分の1にあたりますが、日本 との間で2015年に有機農産物同等性協 定が発効したことを考えると、更なる成長 の余地が残されています。 日本の投資家の皆様にとっても、アル バータ州での投資機会はいっそうの広が りを見せています。アルバータ州が本来も つ投資先としての魅力に加えて、近年新し い税額控除制度が導入されました。 「アル バータ州投資家税額控除（AITC）」は、新 技術・新製品・新工程の研究開発または商 業化を推進する州の中小企業に資金を提 供する投資家に対して、30%の税額控除 を与える制度です。インタラクティブ・デジ タルメディア開発、映像ポストプロダクシ ョン、デジタルアニメーション、観光業に従 事する企業にも適用されます。 さらに、連邦政 府が二件の大型パイ プラインプロジェクトを承認したこと、ま た、OPECが2017年1月から原油の大幅 減産を実施すると発表したことから、アル バータ州のエネルギー部門の前には新た な展望が開けました。 「今年度はアルバータ州にとって、い ろいろな意味で試練の一年でした。石油 価格が下落し、北部では大規模な山火事 が起きましたが、我が州には回復力があり ます。我々は何度でも立ち上がってきまし た。アルバータ州はいつでもダイナミック な生活、就労、ビジネスの場なのです」ビラ ス大臣はこのように述べました。 さらに、アルバータ州政府在日事務所 のデイビッド・アンダーソン駐日代表は次 のように付け加えました。 「今後の経済に おいては、過去30年間とは違った試練に 遭遇するでしょう。回復力はアルバータ州 最大の財産ですが、日本のようなパートナ ーに対する強いコミットメントは、これか らも我が州における最大の強みです。アル バータ州は日本市場で47年間に渡り、強 い絆を維持してきました。今後も引き続き この関係を育んでまいります」

The Canadian / 09

OUR MAN IN TOKYO THE CANADIAN AMBASSADOR DISCUSSES LEADERSHIP AND ENGAGEMENT IN MOVING THE CANADA-JAPAN CONNECTION FORWARD

010 / The Canadian Ambassador of Canada to Japan Ian Burney poses in the Rocky Mountains section of the stone garden on the fourth floor of the Canadian Embassy in Tokyo.

Photo: Benjamin Parks.

Cover Story

AMBASSADOR IAN BURNEY This past September, Ian Burney arrived in Tokyo to take up his post as Canada’s ambassador to Japan. He presented his credentials to the Emperor on Sep. 21, 2016 and is now fully operational in his leadership of the Canadian Embassy.

The ambassador has enjoyed a distinguished career with Global Affairs Canada, including as chief negotiator for the Canada-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement, and is well placed to advance the Canada-Japan relationship on the political, economic and people-to-people fronts.

Ambassador Burney kindly agreed to provide The Canadian with some insights on his initial impressions of Japan and his plans and priorities going forward.

What are your impressions of Japan?

Ambassador Ian Burney: Japan is a fascinating country — with a warm and welcoming people, an ancient and rich culture, deep respect for the environment, state-of-the-art technology and a vibrant business community. And then, of course, there’s the food! From my perspective, there are few — if any — places in the world that rival the variety and quality of the cuisine available here.

I had the opportunity to live in Japan for nearly eight years early in my life. As part of his diplomatic career, my father served at the Embassy of Canada in Tokyo from 1964 to 1972. So, in a sense, I’m returning to my second home — though of course there have been a few changes here since the 1960s! I’ve had the opportunity to travel here on numerous occasions in recent years on business, but I’m thrilled with the chance to once again live in this wonderful country.

I’m accompanied to Tokyo by my wife, Sylvie Tabet, and our two young daughters. I also have two teenage children who I expect will be frequent visitors; indeed they were just here over the holidays with us. We hope to be able to see as much of Japan as we can while we're here, and I must say it's a special privilege for me to be able to watch my own children expe-

rience Japan and its culture the way I was able to as a youngster.

What are your views regarding the current Canada-Japan relationship?

IB: Canada and Japan enjoy a very strong and productive relationship – one that is anchored in common values. We are both committed to the promotion of democracy, the rule of law and respect for human rights, and we share a strong belief in open markets. The strengthening of bilateral ties is a priority for our Government, a message underscored by Prime Minister Trudeau’s decision to make

I’m thrilled with the chance to once again live in this wonderful country

”

Japan his first Asian destination for a bilateral visit, which he did in May just ahead of the g7 Ise-Shima Summit.

He and Prime Minister Abe now meet and confer often at international gatherings. They also enjoy a strong personal rapport, perhaps in part stemming from similar backgrounds, in that they both hail from very prominent political families.

Also injecting renewed momentum in the relationship is the intensity of visits to Japan in recent months from across the Canadian political spectrum. No fewer than 13 federal ministers — nearly half the

C

entire cabinet — have visited Japan since the Trudeau government was sworn into office a little over a year ago. While there was a g7 context to some of these, many ministers added bilateral components to their visits as well. Moreover, the Speaker of the House of Commons and other parliamentarians were here in 2016, as were four provincial premiers and numerous provincial ministers and mayors. Most recently, Premier Wynne of Ontario –— our largest province in terms of population and economic output — visited in late November at the head of a large and impressive delegation that helped expand ties in many fields.

With this kind of leadership and engagement, we have strong wind in our sails as we seek to move the relationship forward.

What are your priorities as ambassador?

IB: I have three key priorities as the ambassador: to enhance bilateral cooperation on political and security issues, to deepen our economic and commercial ties and to strengthen people-to-people links — particularly among our youth.

In terms of political and security issues, Canada and Japan both understand that our security and prosperity depend on peace, stability and a rules-based international order. We also both recognize that concerted action is essential for progress on issues such as human rights, climate change or the fight against transnational terrorism. By working together on priority issues, we can each more effectively promote these shared interests. That’s why we’re close partners in international forums and why we need to continue to build strong political ties.

The case for cooperation is even more compelling at this juncture. Matters of peace and security are, of course, always important, but the geopolitical landscape has rarely looked as unpredictable and volatile as it does today. Tensions in this region are clearly on the rise and longheld tenets of post-war global security are being questioned. Against this backdrop,

The Canadian / 011

Cover Story

Canada and Japan enjoy a very strong and productive relationship – one that is anchored in common values

”

it’s important for countries with fundamentally shared interests and values, like Canada and Japan, to come together in common cause on key issues. That is happening — and I expect a number of specific bilateral initiatives will come to fruition this year — but the real key is sustained, high-level engagement between us. In this respect, I’m pleased that some of our leading Canadian parliamentarians are visiting Japan this month as part of regular exchanges.

From the perspective of commercial relations, Canada and Japan already enjoy strong ties. In 2015, bilateral trade was nearly C$25 billion and Japan was the largest Asian investor in Canada with over $22 billion in investments spanning a wide variety of sectors. Numerous innovative Canadian and Japanese research institutions are working together to advance the frontiers of science. Perhaps the best-known example of this was the collaboration between Dr. Takaaki Kajita at the University of Tokyo and Dr. Arthur McDonald of Queens University in Kingston, Ontario — a partnership that resulted in both being awarded the 2015 Nobel Prize in Physics.

While the commercial relationship is significant, there’s still enormous potential to grow it further — to a level that befits the size, sophistication and complementarity of our two g7 economies. I think a new trade policy framework between us would provide a major boost in that regard, so one of my top priorities here will be to pursue that objective. That includes promoting the resumption of bilateral negotiations for an economic partnership agreement (epa) between our two countries, given that this would seem to offer the most viable near-term prospect for modernizing our commercial relationship. Frankly, in my view, at a time when so many countries are turning inward, it’s more important than ever for countries like Canada and Japan to lead the way on efforts to promote open markets and free trade, including through concrete bilateral action.

Our team here at the embassy works hard to promote people-to-people ties between our countries, as we recognize

012 / The Canadian

Ambassador Ian Burney in the E.H. Norman Library at the Canadian Embassy in Tokyo. Photo: Benjamin Parks.

that these interactions — particularly youth and educational exchanges — generate relationships that can last a lifetime.

These are key building blocks for the future.

I was pleased to learn on my arrival just how rich and promising these links already are between Canada and Japan.

Tourism flows are up sharply, with over a quarter of a million Japanese visitors to Canada last year. Academic partnerships are flourishing and the number of Japanese students attending educational institutions in Canada is substantial, growing and expanding even further through embassy events such as the semi-annual EduCanada fairs. The next one will be March 17 and I encourage anyone considering overseas opportunities to come to the embassy to speak directly with the more than 70 academic institutions that will be represented.

Japanese youth also continue to fully subscribe to our International Experience Canada (working holiday) program and Canada continues to provide the second-largest contingent of participants to the Japanese government’s Japan Exchange and Teaching (jet) Programme. Not long after my arrival, I had the honour of participating in its 30th anniversary ceremony, which I consider to be one of the most successful youth mobility programs mounted anywhere and I commend the Japanese government for its foresight and ingenuity in this regard. Canada has had some 9,000 “Canjets” come to Japan since the first cohort arrived in 1988 and at any given time, there are about 500 or so in this country. This has spawned an enormous network of Canadians who have developed a lifelong affinity for Japan, which is finding expression through a multitude of careers in all walks of life, including, I’m pleased to note, as a source of talent for our embassy.

As I see it, we’ve only begun to harvest the returns from the rich people-to-people links that have been established over the years, so this area of the relationship will be a high priority for me throughout my tenure.

Cover Story What do you see as the main challenge to the Canada-Japan relationship?

IB: Ironically, one of the main challenges to the relationship is the flip-side of one of its main strengths — its relatively harmonious nature.

Because there are no major irritants or conflicts to command attention, we run the perennial risk of taking each other for granted, of under-appreciating what we can do together. That risk is accentuated by the tendency of each country to focus so much of its global attention on the U.S. — a relationship that’s understandably primordial for both of us — but that can sometimes obscure other opportunities. This may be an even greater risk at the present time, given the preoccupation with developing ties with the incoming administration in Washington. So I consider it “job one” for me and for the team at the Canadian Embassy to try and mitigate the risk of complacency — to do all we can to remind audiences in Canada and in Japan about the continued importance of our relationship and how we both benefit by developing it further.

Any last words?

IB: Yes, indeed. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that this year, 2017, marks the 150th anniversary of Canada’s confederation — our founding as a country. This is a very important milestone for our nation and one that provides a unique opportunity to strengthen our sense of what it means

to be Canadian. It’s also an unparalleled opportunity for others around the world to help us celebrate.

Canadians start 2017 in rather unfamiliar terrain — in the glow of unprecedented international media attention pointing to our supposedly newfound “coolness.” On the strength of a young, highly charismatic prime minister and his approach to inclusiveness and diversity, as well as an ever-growing list of international cultural celebrities in film, fashion, the fine arts and popular music (think Drake, The Weeknd or “the other Justin”), Canada has been in the spotlight. Canadians tend to be naturally disinclined to trumpet this sort of thing themselves (and that would be decidedly uncool anyway), and are positively blushing with the recent features from the likes of The New York Times, The Economist and Monocle, all urging the world to take a “fresh look north” at all that’s happening in “hip” Canada. Leading players in the global travel industry have also taken note, with Lonely Planet most recently listing Canada as its No. 1 global travel destination in 2017.

So my message to Japanese tourists, who have long been drawn to Canada’s natural beauty, would be to come (or come again) and discover all of the other reasons for the attention Canada is attracting.

There’s no time like the present, of course, so visit us in 2017 and take part in our sesquicentennial celebrations.

Let me close by wishing all of your readers a very happy, healthy and prosperous New Year!

It’s more important than ever for countries like Canada and Japan to promote open markets and free trade

”

CIVIL SERVICE Ambassador Burney joined what was then called External Affairs in 1987 and has a long and distinguished career serving Canada both at headquarters in Ottawa and abroad. Most recently, the ambassador has held the following senior positions in the Government of Canada: 2015-2016: Assistant Secretary to the Cabinet, Economic and Regional Development Policy Secretariat, Privy Council Office 2011–2015: Assistant Deputy Minister, Trade Policy and Negotiations, Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development 2009-2011: Assistant Deputy Minister, International Business Development, Investment & Innovation, Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade 2006-2009: Chief Trade Negotiator (Bilateral and Regional), Trade Policy and Negotiations Branch, Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade 2004-2006: Director General, Bilateral and Regional Trade Policy Bureau, Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade 2002-2004: Director, Trade Remedies Division, Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade 1999-2002: Director, Trade Controls Policy Division, Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade In February 2015, Mr. Burney was the recipient of the 2014 Outstanding Achievement Award of the Public Service of Canada, which is awarded by the prime minister and is the highest expression of recognition for senior leaders in the Public Service of Canada.

The Canadian / 013

Celebrating Canada’s Historic Dominion Welcome Ambassador Ian Burney The Canadian Chamber of Commerce, our partners and friends welcome Ambassador Ian Burney to Japan. We look forward to working with you to build on the outstanding Japan Canada relationship and to make your time here very successful and prosperous for all.

014 / The Canadian CANADIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE IN JAPAN

CHAMBRE DE COMMERCE DU CANADA AU JAPON

Embassy Message Andrea Clements is a counsellor and senior trade commissioner for investment, energy and natural resources at the Embassy of Canada in Japan

NEW TECH

E

BY ANDREA CLEMENTS

Rise of the Robots CANADA AND JAPAN CAN COLLABORATE ON INNOVATIVE AI PROJECTS When it comes to robotics, reality continues to lag behind science fiction. While, at this point, we don’t have droids to help us with our everyday tasks and driverless automobiles remain uncommon, last year saw major strides in artificial intelligence, robotics and engineering that will bring the “age of robots” closer than ever. For example, robots that can cut your lawn and prepare the perfect cup of coffee have been developed and Softbank's Pepper can even play Cards Against Humanity. We’re pleased to say that Canada is at the forefront of this innovative and increasingly important field.

Canada leads the North American rise in demand for robots, with strong growth in the automotive, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and space segments. A major push among manufacturing, oil & gas, automotive and electronics companies to reduce labour costs has resulted in investment in Canadian start-up companies by key foreign companies.

Canadian and foreign robotics companies are also working to increase the number of applications within government organizations including the Canadian Armed Forces, first responders and law enforcement agencies. Furthermore, robotic companies are making key contributions to other projects of national interest such as nuclear automation and space exploration. Foreign investment in the robotics sector has seen a steady upswing in Canada, with household names such as ABB, Amazon and General Electric making sizeable investments in the field, paralleling the efforts of other Canadian innovators such as Clearpath Robotics, Bionik Labs, D&D Automation, Kinova Robotics and Provectus Robotics.

Japan is also known as a world leader in the development and use of industrial robots.

In fact, the Japanese government is actively promoting the use of robots as a solution to demographic challenges including an aging population, low birth rates and the resulting labour shortages. Robotics is also regarded as the way forward for improving productivity in a number of sectors such as manufacturing, medical services and nursing care, agriculture, construction and infrastructure maintenance.

Astronaut Stephen K. Robinson, STS-114 mission specialist, anchored to a foot restraint on the International Space Station’s Canadarm2 Photo: Courtesy NASA

Given the similarities between the two markets, there is high potential for innovative R&D collaboration between Canadian and Japanese companies. From a foreign direct investment perspective, Canada supports the innovation and entrepreneurship of investors through significant incentives from both the federal and provincial governments for R&D activity within its borders. In fact, knowledge-based companies — such as R&D, development and testing firms — typically enjoy 27.8 per cent lower costs in Canada relative to their U.S.-based counterparts.

The Canadian Trade Commissioner Service in Japan works to promote Canadian capabilities in innovative technologies and game-changing applications, as well as to facilitate strategic partnerships between Canadian and Japanese companies. If you’re interested in knowing more about Canadian capabilities in robotics and other areas, or are a Canadian company interested in pursuing opportunities in the Japanese market, please connect with the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service at the Embassy of Canada in Japan website (www.tradecommissioner.gc.ca/eng/offices-japan.jsp ) or via email at japancommerce@international.gc.ca.

The Canadian / 015

A New Role THE VANCOUVER ACTRESS WANTS TO HELP BUILD BRIDGES WITH THE CCCJ

016 / The Canadian

Member Profile

SHELLEY SWEENEY

M

BY JEFF W. RICHARDS

Like the CCCJ, I want to help Canadian companies that are coming to Japan

”

Shelley Sweeney’s career in Japan began, surprisingly, on the streets of Vancouver when she was scouted by her original agency, Judy Welch Models, in 1984. She was brought over to do some shoots for Japanese magazines, but ultimately returned to Canada.

Back home, she was once again scouted, this time by Japanese agency Satoru Japan in 1986. Returning to Japan, she worked in Tokyo and Osaka modeling clothes and makeup for catalogs and posters. Her packed schedule included her fair share of auditions. It was, after all, the “bubble” era and she kept busy filming promotional videos for the likes of IBM, NEC and others.

Staying in Japan meant plenty of jobs and renewed contracts. She travelled and worked all over Asia and Europe, until she finally signed an exclusive contract for film work with the Inagawa Motoko Office — an agent-artist relationship that would last almost 20 years.

It was during this period that she appeared in a multitude of popular films, TV shows, commercials and video campaigns — including three

stints in the storied Godzilla franchise: Godzilla vs. Mecha-Godzilla (1993, as co-pilot Catherine Burger), Godzille vs.

Destroyer (1995) and Godzilla Millenium (1999). She also appeared in television shows and dramatized documentaries all across the spectrum — and dial.

She has appeared on just about every channel: Fuji TV, NHK, TV Asahi, NTV in productions produced by both Shochiku and Toei, Japan's main production houses.

Are you recognized on the street after all these years?

She laughs. “It’s become routine.

There’s a kind of look I get and then suddenly I think, ‘I must have been on TV yesterday.’”

That all changed in 2010.

Her mother was very ill with stage 4 cancer at the time and she made the difficult decision to leave her agency of almost 20 years and go freelance.

Then came 3/11.

Sweeney recounts the jobs drying up afterward and all of the expats who left Japan. Due to the exodus of foreigners after the quake, a new turn as PR representative for Tokyo Car Club stopped in its tracks with no clients for its service.

It was fight or flight. And then something happened.

Her mother went in to remission.

“It was like she never even had cancer!” The agony and stress miraculously lifted, she took stock of herself. “Well, I need to recharge my career.”

She had done her time and earned her place. She hasn’t looked back since.

“For me it was liberating,” she says of the decisions she made during that difficult period.

“It was the beginning of Facebook in Japan. It was the beginning of interviews for magazines. People who wouldn’t come near me before — all of a sudden I was being approached.

I didn’t have to go out on auditions anymore — people knew me. I didn’t have to prove to agencies who I was.

I learned that I was already situated right at the top.”

She now has the luxury of choosing projects that appeal to her. One of her favourite ones was a Sekai Gyoten news special feature in which she played the mother of a deaf child who is bullied mercilessly for her disability — only to go on to become Miss America.

Voice-over work for animated movies and narration are her bread and butter now — and she still likes performing in the "foreign" roles for docu-dramas. Her previous contacts keep large, main roles exclusively for her — just one of the perks of having paid your dues in an extensive career spanning film, television, print and PR in Tokyo.

Looking 10 years into the future, Sweeney is excited about being more involved in cccj opportunities and mentoring others who may want to follow in her career path — or are just looking for support as they carve out a life for themselves in Japan.

“Ten years is a long time, but I know that I will still be in Japan,” she says of the country that has become her home.

“It has so much to offer and it’s been very good to me.”

Now more than ever she looks to give back in whatever way she can.

“Like the cccj, I want to help Canadian companies — perhaps in PR endeavours or spokesmanship — that are coming here and build a stronger bridge between both Canada and Japan, she says.

"I would also like to be involved with the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in whatever capacity I can.”

Follow Shelley Sweeney on her public Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ shelleysweeneyjapan

The Canadian / 017

CANADIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE IN JAPAN CHAMBRE DE COMMERCE DU CANADA AU JAPON

BECOME A MEMBER OF THE CCCJ

Benefits of Membership New and useful business contacts Exposure and promotion Local knowledge expertise Opportunities to participate Weekly Canadian newsletter What You Will Receive When You Join the CCCJ Entry to all events at member rates and exclusive invites to VIP functions Access to joint events sponsored by fellow chambers Special business and government briefings Listing in the annual Membership Directory Subscription to the The Canadian, CCCJ’s magazine & digital app Periodic bulletins on key issues facing business in Japan Contact Us Email: members@cccj.or.jp Tel: +81 (0)3 5775-9500 7F Parkside Sepia, 3-13-10 Nishi-Azabu Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0031 Japan

www.cccj.or.jp

018 / The Canadian

Housing Trends Adam German is from Brantford, Ontario. He’s lived in Japan for 13 years working with the most widely used, international real estate platforms across all levels of property management. Got a question? german@housingjapan.com

NO VACANCY

H

BY ADAM GERMAN

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT GETTING THE MOST FROM YOUR REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT Image: Courtesy Housing Japan / ©Robin Sakai

In property ownership and investing, a large cast of different characters flow through the entry and exit process. Lawyers, agents, bankers, sellers and buyers all make an appearance throughout the ownership experience.

There is one group of people, however, that are so vital and important to the process that they can make or break your investment: the property managers.

Ironically, property managers are the most unsung characters during your ownership. Out of all the participants, it is only the property managers who are tasked with protecting the only source of revenue you have — the rent.

It is the property managers who source and screen your tenants, are the first responders to any emergencies that happen and are the ones who haul themselves out of bed at all hours of the night to make sure your tenants have a positive experience.

Hiring a property manager in Japan also allows you to service your most important renter pool — Japanese people.

In addition to the obvious language barriers that the property manager will break down, you'll be able to take advantage of Japan’s co-signer rules on all residential leases.

It's a requirement when your tenant signs a lease agreement that they provide a guarantor, one who becomes legally responsible for the rent should the tenant disappear.

In the past, the guarantor function was mainly provided by a family member of the renter but, increasingly, tenants are choosing to pay the extra cost for a third-party insurance company that will act in lieu of an actual guarantor.

Owners like this service as well because the guarantor company not only covers missed rent, but also the cost of restoring the property back to it’s original condition.

This is just a small example of why hiring a property manager is a make or break choice. Choosing the right one is paramount, but to the uninitiated, it might look like all property managers are the same. They aren’t.

Imagine this: you’ve purchased a property and are now looking for a property manager. You reach out to several firms who all present proposals. Everyone likes to put their best foot forward, but do you know how to choose the manager who best fits your property? As with everything else, you won’t really know the choice you’ve made until after you’ve committed to one firm.

Pruning out the non-contenders is a fairly simple process.

Demonstrating consistent reporting on upkeep, maintenance and repairs as well as knowledge of local rents is property management 101.

The person pitching their firm's services to you is, at the end of the day, selling to you. The great will stand out from the merely good by not agreeing entirely with everything you say. Two good property managers are agreeing with your “research findings,” while the third is disagreeing with you.

Before playing the odds of two versus one, dig deeper into why that one manager is recommending something different than what you feel is achievable — it might just make or break your investment.

The Canadian / 019

Asia Pacific View

A

INFOGRAF

BY THE ASIA PACIFIC FOUNDATION OF CANADA. www.asiapacific.ca

BUILDING ON A FRIENDSHIP NURTURING A MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL RELATIONSHIP IN 2017 including real estate holdings, fishing boats and other chattels — confiscated and later sold. It would take four years after the war was over before all the restrictions were lifted and Japanese Canadians given full rights of citizenship.

Today, both Canada and Japan have looked beyond their sometimes-turbulent past. The two countries have instead developed a lasting and expansive relationship by focusing on areas of mutual benefit.

These growing ties have had a strong impact on Canadian public opinion. According to the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada’s 2016 National Opinion Poll: Canadian Views on Asia, after Australia, Canadians have the warmest feelings toward Japan.

Remarkably, Canadians have even more positive feelings toward Japan than they do toward their southern neighbour, the United States.

Notwithstanding the good relationship that exists today between Japan and Canada, there is room for closer engagement in 2017 and beyond — particularly in trade, investment, educational exchanges and partnering on strategic interests. Here are some ways to achieve it.

Canadians feeling warmer toward Asian countries

2016

2012 2014 8.1

8.2

Australia 8.0

6.5

6.6

Japan 7.0

7.0

7.3

U.S. 6.7

5.2

5.6

South Korea 6.7

5.1

5.1

India 5.8

NA

NA

Philippines 5.7

NA

NA

Vietnam 5.7

NA

NA

Indonesia 5.3

4.8

4.6

China 4.9

Warm / favourable feeling for country (10 = very warm)

FOSTER TWO-WAY TRADE

Canada and Japan have deep roots that date back to the opening of Canada’s diplomatic office in Tokyo in 1929. Fast-forward almost 90 years and relations are still steadfast. Ottawa has stressed that “improving trade relations with Japan is a top priority for [the Canadian] government.” To demonstrate this, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made an official visit to Japan in May 2016 and met with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, as well as the emperor and empress of Japan.

But Canada-Japan relations were not always so rosy. Compared to the warmth and acceptance most immigrants to Canada experience today, many of the first Japanese immigrants who arrived in Canada in the early 20th century were met with racism and prejudice.

In the early 20th century, rising anti-Asian sentiment in British Columbia prompted the Canadian government to tighten restrictions on Japanese immigration. On top of this, Canadian law denied Asians the right to vote and work in most professions. The expansion of the Japanese empire in the 1920s and ’30s intensified these sentiments, leading to widespread expressions of a “yellow peril.” With the arrival of World War II, more than 21,000 Japanese Canadians were perceived as enemies and forced to move into internment camps. Families were torn apart and property —

The 020Canadian / The Canadian / 020

Two-way merchandise trade continues to increase, with Japan being Canada’s fifth-largest trade partner and second-largest in Asia after China. Japan is extremely dependent on Canada’s canola seeds, potash, various wood products, gold, as well as wheat and cereals. Evident in the driveways and living rooms of almost every Canadian home; motor vehicles, vehicle parts, electronic machinery and equipment are Canada’s largest imports from Japan.

Still, there remains a lot of untapped potential in the Canada-Japan trade relationship. The Trans-Pacific Partnership (tpp) would have been the best opportunity to advance economic relations, but there is a distinct possibility that the tpp will not go the final mile given u.s. president-elect Donald Trump’s opposition to the agreement. The next best option may be for Canada and Japan to realize economic opportunities through renewed negotiations on a Canada-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (cjepa). This may be for the best after all since, according to the 2015 National Opinion Poll: Canadian Views on the Trans-Pacific Partnership, the Canadian public is more open to an fta with Japan (70 per cent) than the tpp (41 per cent).

ENCOURAGE MORE INVESTMENT

Two-way investment between Canada and Japan has continued since Japan’s economic rise. According to both the 2016 NOP and

THIS PAGE: Base: All respondents: 2012 (n = 3,129), 2014 (n = 3,487), 2016 (n = 3,526) Q5: Please rate your feelings towards some countries, with ten meaning a very warm, favourable feeling, one meaning a very cold, unfavourable feeling,and five meaning not particularly warm or cold. You can use any number from one to ten: the higher the number the more favourable your feelings are toward that country (NA: No data available)

Asia Pacific View

Do you agree or disagree with each of the following statements on Canada’s economic relations with Asia?

2014

OPPOSE

24%

34%

45%

61%

34% 51%

SUPPORT

2014

Increase the number of student exchanges and university agreements between your province and Asia Place more emphasis on teaching about Asia in your province’s education system (e.g. history, culture, etc.)

Place more emphasis on teaching Asian languages in your province’s schools

69% 59% 41%

53%

43%

28%

tween Canadian and Japanese businesses, sity agreements.

Canada has already the 2015 National Opinion Poll: Canadi- Base: All respondents: 2014apf (3,487) 2016 (n=3,526) Q22c_e: Would you support or oppose your provincial government doing each of the following to build stronger ties with Asia? universities and research institutes. tried to do this by partnering with the Govan Views on Asian Investment, more than Arrows indicate statistically significant year-on-year change With a prime minister who is avidernment of Japan to deliver its Kakehashi three-quarters of Canadians support inly advancing Canada-Asia relations and Project, which selects a number of Canadivestment from Japan, associating it with with growing uncertainty to the south, the an and Japanese students for cultural and new technologies, economic growth and time is right for deepening Canada-Japan academic exchanges designed to promote job creation. relations. Fortunately, contemporary Cadeeper mutual trust and understanding According to StatsCan, these days, Japnadians are overwhelmingly supportive of between the people of Canada and Japan. anese investment into Canada is far surbuilding on the strong foundation that has passing Canadian investment into Japan. been established through a long and tested In 2015, Canada only invested C$8.3 milPARTNER ON CLEAN ENERGY AND THE friendship. lion into Japan, while Japan invested $22 ENVIRONMENT million into Canada. In the years to come, Canada and Japan share many similar straCanadian investment into Japan should tegic interests that both countries can work be encouraged in an effort to balance the on to achieve common goals. One such relationship. interest is clean energy and the environment. The Canada-Japan Joint Economic Committee Meeting in October 2016 emINCREASE EDUCATION EXCHANGES phasized future collaboration on clean Student flows have helped strengthen energy and the environment, and both Canada-Japan relations through the years. governments agreed to double investment Canada welcomed close to 5,800 internain clean energy innovation over the next tional students from Japan in 2014. Meanfive years. while, only three per cent of Canadian There are a number of already-estabstudents venture overseas to study abroad, lished scientific partnerships between with only a fraction of those choosing Asia Canada and Japan. One of these is the as a study destination.

Mitacs-Japan Society for the Promotion The Canadian public is now realizing of Science Summer Program, which suphow important it is for young Canadians ports graduate students in Canada to purto study abroad in pivotal countries like sue collaborative research in Japan in the Japan. The 2016 nop results show that alhumanities, social and natural sciences. most 70 per cent of Canadians think their To further collaboration, more r&d opprovince and Asia should increase the portunities should be made available benumber of student exchanges and univer-

Canadians have even more positive feelings toward Japan than they do toward their southern neighbour, the United States

”

THIS PAGE: Base: All respondents: 2014 (3,487) 2016 (n = 3,526) Q22cE: Would you support or oppose your provincial government doing each of the following to build stronger ties with Asia?

Arrows indicate statistically significant year-on-year change

The Canadian / 021

Timeline

T

LOOKING BACK

PAST EVENTS CHAMBER GOINGS ON AND BEYOND

ONTARIO DELEGATION LUNCHEON — November 28 Premier Kathleen Wynne and a delegation of over 70 senior business leaders from Ontario spent a week visiting Japan and South Korea to encourage investment in the province. Twoway trade between Japan and Ontario was more than C$11 billion last year alone. The delegation signed numerous deals worth over $120 million while on the ground in Japan.

Image: Courtesy Seiya Watanabe

JOINT CHAMBER BONENKAI 2016 — December 8 The CCCJ and partner chambers welcomed guests to the Canadian Embassy in Japan for one of the finest parties in Tokyo — the 23rd annual Joint Chamber Bonenkai. The event attracted a crowd of over 300 people with a full buffet, free flow drinks, entertainment and prizes. One attendee donated half of her 50/50 winnings, helping the event raise nearly ¥130,000 for the Tohoku Children’s Fund to bring students from Takata High School in Rikuzentakata to Tokyo for one-week internships in the spring. Thanks to all the volunteers from the partner chambers for their outstanding efforts — we can’t wait to do it all again next year. Santa get ready!

022 / The Canadian

CCCJ TAX SEMINAR — November 28 In collaboration with CCCJ member ReDev Properties and Trowbridge, the CCCJ hosted two tax seminars for Canadian expats living in Japan at the Tokyo American Club on Nov. 28 and 29. The symposium advised Canadians on property investment in Canada, tax regulations and concerns, as well as personal tax strategy while living abroad. The seminar was the first of its kind in Tokyo in 10 years, providing valuable information to Canadians about taking care of their taxes abroad.

CANADA NETWORK SYMPOSIUM — December 9 The CCCJ participated in the annual Canada Network Symposium at the Embassy of Canada to Japan. This annual conference invites "friends of Canada" from all regions in Japan — from Hokkaido to Okinawa — to join in a discussion about their efforts to promote the bilateral relationship between our two countries.

日本 IN カナダ

CANADA IN JAPAN

投資ビジネスガイド

INVESTMENT AND BUSINESS GUIDE

在 日カナダ 商 工 会 議 所 会 員リスト在 中

WITH CCCJ MEMBER DIRECTORY

CANADA IN JAPAN | 日本 IN カナダ

Invest Busine

CANADA IN is a print and aimed at Can looking to do and Canada.

CANADA IN JAPAN

A portable gu providing info schemes, cur business act incentives fo and Japan.

Japan External Trade Organization

In support of Canada-Japan bilateral trade & investment, CCCJ and JETRO proudly present:

TABLE OF CONTENTS CANADA IN カ ナダ

JAPAN | JAPAN IN CANADA

LANDMASS (square kilometers)

9,984,670 有利な事業環境

力強い成長実績

フォー ブス お よ びブ ル ー ム バ ー グに

カナダはこの 10 年間 (2006~2015

よると、カナダはビジネスを行うのに

航空宇宙&交通

年）、G7 諸 国 中 最 高 の 成 長 率 を 記

G20 諸国中最高の国であり。

録しました 。

出所: フォーブス、ブルームバーグ

出所: 経済開発協 力機構 (OECD)

A portable, one-stop source providing 日本 IN CANADA IN

カナダ JAPAN schemes, information on promising market 投資ビジネスガイド

INVESTMENT AND BUSINESS GUIDE

在 日カナダ 商 工 会 議 所 会 員リスト在 中

環 境・エ ネ ル ギ ー 農林水産物, 食品, バイオ製品

カナダとEUの 包 括 的 経 済 貿 易 協

ライフサイエンス

定 (CETA) が 発 効 す ると 、カ ナ ダ の

機 械・機 器

外 国 投 資 家には北 米 自 由 貿 易 協 定

高学歴の労働人口 カナダの労働人口は OECD諸国中最 も教 育 水 準が高く、およそ 半 数が高 校卒業後の高学歴を有しています。 出所: 経済開発協 力機構 (OECD)

(NAFTA) 圏ならびに欧州連合への優

世 界 の 物 品 サ ービス生 産 のほぼ半 分

到着

を占 める活 発 な 市 場 へ の アクセスを 意味します。 出所: 世界銀行

競争力の優れた研究 開発環境 カナダは研究開発集約な産業分野に おける事業費用が G7諸国中最小で、

doing business in Canada and Japan.

中群を抜いて少なく、米国と比べると

46%低くなっています。

カナダは世界で最も多文化な国 の ひと つ で 、世 界 水 準 の 大 学 や ユ ニ バ ー サ ル ヘ ル ス ケ ア（ 皆 保 険 ）

安 定した 金 融 制 度 世 界 銀 行 は 8 年 連 続 でカナダ の 金 融 制 度 は世 界 で 最も健 全 で あると発 表 しています。 出所: 世界経済フォーラム

Tokyo Olympic Games and Paralympic Games 2020 The economic ripple effect of the decision to hold the 2020 Olympic Games is estimated at ¥ 3 trillion, and job creation at approx. 150,000 jobs nationwide.

・Available online CANADA IN JAPAN

投 資し、働 き 、住 む 場 所と して 素 晴らしい 国

3RD

ranked in the world.

Japan’s GDP is around ¥ 500 trillion.

い 暮 らし 指 標 」で は 、全 般 的 な 居 住 条 件 および生 活 の 質につ い て 、 カ ナ ダ は G 7 諸 国 中トッ プ で す 。

Nearly 61% of foreign companies validate the well-maintained service and transportation infrastructure as an advantage.

A country where you can live safely and pleasantly with cities that rank among the most “livable” in the world.

• 1st ranked Asia – Global Peace Index • 1st in the world – OECD Better Life Index “Safe” category

制 度 が あ り 、各 都 市 は 清 潔 で フレ ンド リ ー で す 。O E C D の「 よ り 良

BUSINESS-FRIENDLY INFRASTRUCTURE Supporting business with a well-developed social infrastructure Japan’s business environment is highly evaluated by international organizations.

COMFORTABLE LIVING

SOPHISTICATED MARKET

・3,000 copies in print

World-class in research funding and number of researchers Research funding as a percentage of GDP is ranked 1st in the world.

Japan also ranks 1st in the world by numbers of patents registered.

Attracting foreign companies • Designation of National Strategic Special Zones

activities and governement incentives for

性があります。 出所: KPMG

カナ ダ の 総 法 人 税 金 費 用 は G7 諸 国

出所: KPMG

The appeal of the Japanese market is increasing through the economic growth of Abenomics.

The government is strengthening its efforts to attract foreign companies and visitors, aiming to open up the Japanese market.

• Easing requirements of highly skilled foreign professionals

米国に対しては 27.7% のコスト優位

低い法人税率

INNOVATION HUB

Olympic logo?

先的アクセスが保証されることになり ます。 これは、GDP合計 37兆米ドル、

258,500+

current beneficial policies to business WITH CCCJ MEMBER DIRECTORY

比類ない優れた市場 アクセス

CANADA IN JAPAN | 日本 IN カナダ

ICT, 無 線 , デ ジ タ ル メ デ ィ ア

1ST

JAPAN’S RE-EMERGENCE

・Distributed to key government offices

55 companies out of the “Fortune Global 500” have their HQ in Japan and cited “the massive size of market” as a an attractive advantage.

出所: 世界経済フォーラム

• Longest life expectancy in the world • Well developed medical infrastructure

and orangizations in Canada and Japan Japan External Trade Organization

JAPANESE LANGUAGE CONTENT

160 PAGES

Sponsorship and promotion opportunities available at info@cccj.or.jp

INVEST IN CANADA

INCENTIVES FROM

DIRECTORY OF CONTACTS

CCCJ DIRECTORY

DIRECTORY OF CONTACTS

INCENTIVES FROM

• PROMISING MARKET SITUATIONS

PROVINCES & TERRITORIES

IN CANADA

ABOUT CCCJ

IN JAPAN

CENTRAL & LOCAL

• JAPANESE INSTITUTIONS &

ABOUT JETRO

• CANADIAN INSTITUTIONS &

GOVERNMENTS

• SECTOR ADVANTAGES

Calendar

C

DATEBOOK

Events/

WINTER-SPRING 2017

17

MARCH

EduCanada Fair Spring 2017

2016 CCCJ annual golf scramble

Look out for the following upcoming events at

www.cccj.or.jp/en/events FEBRUARY

CCCJ Monthly Mixer MARCH

CCCJ Turf Challenge APRIL

University Alumni Mixer MAY

CCCJ Annual Golf Scramble JUNE

Canada 150 Barbeque & Fair We are always looking for new event ideas.

To join our events committee, please contact Stephane Beaulieu: stephane.beaulieu@bibadev.com for details.

4

2

FEBRUARY

Hockey Night in Tokyo 2017

Are you interested in studying in Canada? Then come to the Embassy of Canada education fair this spring.

The fair caters to the needs of students at various levels. Whether it's K-12, summer school, ESL, college, undergraduate or postgraduate, these fairs are an opportunity to find the school in Canada that is just right for you. Speak with school representatives directly and ask any questions you may have.

Date: Mar. 17 & 18, 2017 Cost: Free Location: Embassy of Canada

Join the CCCJ and the Tokyo Canadians hockey team for a great night of big-screen NHL action at Legends Sports Bar and Grill in Roppongi. Wear your favourite hockey jersey and bring a small donation to the Tohoku Student Fund.

Date: Feb. 2 Time: 6:30 p.m.

Cost: Free Location: Legends Sports Bar & Grill

Autumn FEBRUARY

Drop the Puck Join Ron Haigh, CCCJ chairman, and other members and staff for the Asia Ice Hockey League game between the Tohoku Free Blades and the Nippon Paper Cranes. (There is a second game between the Icebucks and Eagles, and two additional games on Feb 5.)

Contact the arena directly for tickets.

Date: Feb. 4 Time: 1:30 p.m.

Location: DyDo Drinko Ice Arena, Higashifushimi, Nishi-tokyo

024 / The Canadian

CCCJ Maple Leaf Gala The CCCJ is once again planning its 28th annual Maple Leaf Gala. This is the flagship Canada-Japan community event in Tokyo. As always, the CCCJ events committee is preparing a festive evening of prizes, entertainment and, of course, an excellent selection of fine Canadian food and drink.

Date: Autumn 2017 Time: 6:30-11:45 p.m.

Cost: TBA Location: TBA

Chamber Insights

CATHERINE GOSSELIN-DESPRÉS

Louis Daignault is the communications coordinator at the Canadian Paralympic Committee.

H

BY LOUIS DAIGNAULT

THE PARALYMPIC PATH TO TOKYO MEET THE SPORT EXECUTIVE AT THE HELM OF TEAM CANADA Team Canada surpassed expectations last year when it placed 14th in the medal standings at the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio. With the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games just over three years away, Canada wants to continue to build its performance potential to challenge the top of the summer sports world elite.

The architect behind Canada’s strength at the Paralympics is Catherine Gosselin-Després. She arrived in 2013 as the executive director of sport for the Canadian Paralympic Committee. The role was a dream come true for the accomplished sports administrator.

While Gosselin-Després focused more on the management side of sport in her previous roles, including as ceo with Synchro Canada, she returned to her first love, as the head of an organization’s sports programs, with the Canadian Paralympic Committee.

How did it come about that you joined the Canadian Paralympic Committee?

Catherine Gosselin-Després: I had worked a few years in various leadership positions at Synchro Canada, one of Canada’s national sport organizations, focusing on management, administration and governance. But I always loved the sports and technical side first. That was reflected in my studies. I earned a master’s degree in sports administration and a bachelor’s degree in sciences specialising in kinesiology at university.

I had gained some valuable experience with the Canadian Olympic Committee as part of the support teams as well as working and supporting the Synchro Olympic Team in Beijing and as being the team leader in London 2012. I also managed and supported the national synchro team and the national canoe and kayak team at many different training camps and international events such as World Cups and

World Championships in various locations across the world.

What does it mean for Canada to be a world-leading Paralympic nation?

CGD: We don’t only see that in terms of medals, although improving our international rankings is very important for us.

For us we want to stand out in specific sectors where we know we can excel and leave a legacy. For example, it can be our ability, along with our federations, to have a high conversion rate in identifying athletes and developing them into potential medallists, or providing the best services to our sports to optimize performance within the Games environment.

What is the health of Paralympic sport in Canada?

CGD: We have strong momentum. Of course, we always want more investment and more attention, but if we compare ourselves to other countries, we are evolving quite well at that level. There are areas we could improve. We need more investments for the federations and more support for the programs.

We have great assistance from our member sports, our performance partners and accomplished athletes such as Chantal Petitclerc and the Honorable Carla Qualtrough Minister of Sport, herself a Paralympian, who really helps us push our agenda forward at various levels so we can have more resources for our athletes, coaches and the services we offer our sports.

What are the advantages for the corporate sector to partner with the Canadian Paralympic Committee?

CGD: It’s going to be very important when the Paralympic Games in Tokyo roll around

that we get the support we need in our preparation and onsite. We want to create dynamic partnerships that are beneficial for both parties. These partnerships can range from sponsorships to on-location assistance. It will be important that Canadian companies in Japan be kept abreast of our plans, that they understand the difference between Olympic and Paralympic and that they can help promote Paralympic athletes and the Paralympic movement through their networks in Japan.

Paralympians are role models for our society and are leaders both on and off the field of play.

What are the challenges ahead for the Canadian Paralympic Committee and the Paralympic movement in general?

CGD: Improving our results at the Games and helping support our sports to find new athletes. Funding from the public and private sectors remains a challenge. Accessibility and inclusion to ensure those with a disability have proper services everywhere they go is another issue. We know that the Tokyo 2020 organization is working hard to deliver high-level services for the Games and will be a great leader in this area. We also want to keep pushing for integration in sport but also be able to show the uniqueness of Paralympic sport.

We can’t wait for the 2020 Paralympic Games in Tokyo and are looking forward to these Games with great anticipation!

If you are interested in getting involved, please contact us at 2020paralympic@cccj.or.jp

The Canadian / 025

Special Report

S

THE READINESS IS ALL

BY JOHN KASTNER

Stratford Sets the Stage THE CITY WITH THE FAMOUS THEATRE FESTIVAL IS RENOWNED FOR ITS FORWARD-THINKING AND AMBITIOUS INDUSTRY Stratford is the little city that can — and does.

For most Canadians, and many people around the world, Stratford is a theatre town.

The Stratford Shakespeare Festival is a huge employer and an even bigger economic and cultural driver. It’s the largest repertory theatre in North America and draws over half a million patrons and a million tourists to this Southern Ontario city. From May to November, a city of just over 32,000 people suddenly supports world-class restaurants, hotels and boutique lodgings.

What most people don’t know is that Stratford wasn’t always a theatre town and has re-invented itself a few times.

Back in the 19th century, and right up into the 1960s, Stratford was a furniture town and was home to the Kroehler Furniture Company and Imperial Rattan. In the early stages of the 20th century, almost one-third of Canadian-made furniture

026 / The Canadian Jonathan Goad as Hamlet in Hamlet. Photography by David Hou.

came from Stratford.

But it was also a railway town, and from the turn of the century until the 1950s, steam locomotives from all across eastern Canada were repaired in a massive facility just a short walk from Stratford’s downtown. At the peak of these Canadian National Railway shops, half of the homes in Stratford had a member of the household punching the time clock at “the Shops.”

But the shops closed, the furniture industry was dying and in the 1950s the little city with the famous name was at a crossroads. Along came a local journalist named Tom Patterson who pitched the idea of a summer theatre to city council.

He said he could get such famous thespians as Alec Guinness and Tyrone Guthrie on board and all he needed was $100 to go to New York, meet them and pitch the idea.

City council gave him $125, said “godspeed” and a year

Special Report John Kastner is the founder of Argyle Media and the retired managing editor of the Stratford Beacon Herald, where he worked for 33 years.

later Guinness walked on stage and said: “Now is the winter of our discontent …”

The Stratford Shakespeare Festival was off and running and it never looked back.

Stratford, like many southern Ontario communities, was hit hard by the downturn of the automotive industry early in this century. While other similar-sized communities continued to reel from the loss of Big Three jobs and the supporting parts plants, Stratford’s young mayor, Dan Mathieson, went to Japan — literally — and now Stratford is home to six Japanese parts factories that supply assembly plants in Cambridge, Woodstock and Alliston.

These factories are currently running at full capacity and continuing to expand. It’s in large part due to forward-thinking companies like fag Aerospace, Aisin, F-Tech and Futaba that Stratford's unemployment rate is consistently well below the Canadian national average. Now, Stratford is embracing yet another re-invention — one borne out of opportunity, not crisis.

Mathieson, who has been mayor since 2003, spearheaded a vision that Stratford should be a high-tech and highly wired community. The city pursued a post-secondary institution to set up a university campus in Stratford and the University of Waterloo Digital Media Campus is also there.

Stratford created city-wide Wi-Fi and installed a high-speed, fibre-optic network through its industrial park. To make things even smoother, the municipally-owned utility built and maintains it.

Now, Stratford is the testing ground for autonomous cars — another new and incredible industry that's knocking at the door.

So what is it with Stratford? Luck?

Vision?

A bit of both says the mayor.

“The community struck a vision to be a smart community with state of the art networks and Wi-Fi,” said Mathieson. “And then we worked towards that vision.

“But things began to grow organically. When we took the leap to install the Wi-Fi network to attract high-tech industry, we never imagined it would lead to autonomous cars. They weren’t even thought of,” said Mathieson. “But now, here we are.”

Mathieson said there are other factors that lead to these transformations and the size of the city is one of them.

“I always say we are the Goldilocks of cities in Ontario. Not too big, not too small — just right.”

The size of Stratford keeps it nimble and able to react quickly to opportunities. Bigger cities have bigger issues and in many cases bigger bureaucracy. When opportunity knocks in Stratford, it’s a small enough place that it’s probably the mayor who answers the door.

But there is also something less tangible — the community itself seizes opportunities and embraces these new visions.

Stratford is the best place to be for foreign companies to innovate and compete at the highest levels. Our valued Jap-

anese companies continue to experience success and growth due in large part to our strategic location, exceptional workforce and strong community. In addition, it offers unique one-on-one business support and advice to interested companies and investors through InvestStratford, a corporation that functions as a type of "business help line” for companies and individuals in the city.

“We're lucky here,” added Mathieson.

“It’s not just city council that recognizes the value and the importance of these opportunities. There are many examples of people who live here, like Tom Patterson did with the Festival, spearheading these major and very important changes.”

“Patterson may have led the charge in the 1950s with moving this city to a theatre town but hardly a day goes by that someone in this city isn’t picking up the ball and helping us run with it.”

And don’t think that the success has gone unnoticed. Stratford has carved out a reputation among Canadian communities as a municipality that punches well above its weight.

“Tons of people are shocked at what we do here,” said Mathieson. “Whenever I’m in a group of municipal leaders in Ontario, or Canada, people tap me on the shoulder and say, ‘Wow, what are you guys doing there?’”

The answer is — lots!

Take advantage of Stratford’s strategic locale. Contact the InvestStratford team at www.investstratford.com.

The Canadian / 027

5 1

4

オンタリオ州南西部に 五投資する5つの理由 この地域は、 地理的に極めて有利な 場所です。 他に比較するものがないほ ど素晴らしい労働力と快適な地域を 有し、 工場を開く製造業にとって魅力 的な場所となっています。

U.S.A.

戦略的な位置 5投資する5つの理由戦略的な位置トロントとデトロ イトの中間に位置するカナダのハートランド工業団地 で、 製造および革新における北アメリカの主要拠点で す。 製造部門は、 5つの北米自由貿易協定 （NAFTA） の回廊地帯および6つのカナダと米国との国境検問 所を利用することができ、 たった1日の発送で130億 人の消費者に製品を届けることができます。

20億ドル投資 過去5年間に工場と設 備における民間投資で、 20億ドル以上を投資 しています。

出典：オンタリオ州南西部 マーケティング同盟

当マーケティング同盟に加盟し、製造業成長 リストに登録しましょう。多数の賢明な企業 が既にオンタリオ州南西部につい学んだこと を理解してください：当マーケティング同盟の 戦略的位置、 より低いコストと才能豊かな労 働者がカナダのハートランド工業団地の投資 を賢い選択にします。 今すぐご連絡ください。

TORONTO

ONTARIO

L

PERTH STRATFORD WOODSTOCK

MICHIGAN

QUEENSTON FORT ERIE

INGERSOLL TILLSONBURG

PORT HURON

SARINA

ST. THOMAS

DETROIT

PENNSYLV SOR

WIND

米国/カナダ国境検閲所 移動時間

ポート ヒューロン‐サーニア 1時間

デトロイト‐ウインザー 2時間

アンバサダーブリッジ

デトロイト‐ウィンザートンネル 2時間

OHIO

028 / The Canadian www.somasite.com

バッファロー‐フォートエリー 1.75時間

ルイストン‐クイーンストン 1.5時間

ナイアガラの滝 1.5時間

動的経済および経済成長に参画する

オンタリオ州南西部の雇用増加はますます好調に なっており、 残りの州と比較すると3％の成長率です。 出典：EMSI McSweeny & Associates 2009-2014年

2

競争力の高いビジネスコスト

3

• 米国平均より30％低い法人税率 • 50％低い雇用者医療費負担25％ まで追加される価格優 • 位性に寄与するカナダドルで両替

500,000人以上の当マーケティング同盟の 豊かな地域労働者から御社の世界級の社 員を採用します。出典：統計カナダ

出典：経済発展、 雇用および経済基盤構造省

5

500,000人の技術労働者

製造業はここで繁栄する

当マーケティング同盟の戦略的優位は、 同州の他 の地域に位置する競争企業より効率の良い主要な 部門の製造業を可能にします。 40% 成長 27% 成長

LEWISTON NIAGARA FALLS

BUFFALO

VANIA

NEW YORK

オンタリオ

自動車

SOMA = 27% 成長 オンタリオ = 11% 成長

11% 成長

オンタリオ

先端的製造業

SOMA = 40% 成長 オンタリオ = 3% 成長

オンタリオ

食品加工

SOMA = 11% 成長 オンタリオ = ‐4% 成長

出典：EMSI McSweeny & Associates 2009-2014年

Some of our global companies 当マーケティング同盟の支援方法 • 機密の現地選択 • 政府のプログラムにアクセス • 労働市場情報 • サプライヤーの同定

オンタリオ州南西部で事業を育てる支援の 方法に関する詳細については下記でご確認ください：

CanadasIndustrIalHeartland.Com Ingersoll | Perth | St. Thomas | Stratford | Tillsonburg | Woodstock

Directory

D

MEMBERS

Members Directory Associations & Foundations

Accounting & Tax KPMG www.kpmg.com Manning Elliott www.manningelliott.com/ Solid Japan K.K. www.solidjapan.com/global PwC Canada http://www.pwc.com/ca/en Takahashi Tax & Accounting Office http://tk-tax-accounting.com

Advertising & Marketing Akuntsu www.akuntsu.com HQ Vancouver www.bcbc.com/hq-vancouver Southwestern Ontario Marketing Alliance www.somasite.com

Airlines & Aerospace Air Canada www.aircanada.jp Avcorp Industries Inc www.avcorp.com Bombardier Aerospace www.bombardier.com JAL CAE Flight Training (JCFT) Co. Ltd. http://www.jalsim.com/

The Board Director Training Institute of Japan (BDTI) http://bdti.or.jp/english Canadian Chamber of Commerce/ La Chambre De Commerce Du Canada www.chamber.ca

Automobiles & Auto Parts Toyota Motor Corporation www.toyota.co.jp

Banking, Investment & Financial Services

Consulting Apex K.K. www.apexkk.com Ashton Consulting www.ashton.jp C-Mach International www.cmach-int.com Currie & Brown www.curriebrown.com

Canada’s Research-Based Pharmaceutical companies www.canadapharma.org

CIBC World Markets (Japan) Inc. www.cibcwm.com

The Canada-Japan Society www.canadajapansociety.jp

Royal Bank of Canada www.rbccm.com/japan/jp

Slate Executive Search Group www.slate.co.jp

Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association of Canada www.jama.ca

Regalia Financial Group www.regalia-financial.com

Strategic Consulting Japan G.K. www.consulting-japan.com

Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre www.jccc.on.ca The Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry www.jcci.or.jp Japan PFI/PPP Association www.pfikyokai.or.jp The Japan Society www.japansocietycanada.com

Scotia Securities Asia Limited (Tokyo Branch) www.scotiasecurities.jpn. scotiabank.com

GaiaWorks Inc. www.gaiaworks.com

Tokyo Investment Research Services Inc.

Toys “R” Us, Japan www.toysrus.co.jp

Building Products & Construction

Tokyo American Club www.tokyoamericanclub.org

Canada Wood www.canadawood.jp

Vega Project http://vega-global.co.jp

Tower Knives Osaka www.towerknives.com

Education 2x4 Applied Technologies http://2x4appliedtechnologies.com

Vanten K.K. www.vanten.com

Consumer Products

Trans Global Partners www.trans-globalpart.net

The Overseas Construction Association of Japan Inc. www.ocaji.or.jp

Audio, Visual & Media

Focus Cubed Inc. www.focus-cubed.com

Icynene Asia Pacific Inc. www.icynene.co.jp Tsuda Sangyo www.tsuda.co.jp Xypex Chemical Corporation www.xypex.com

Eurocentres Canada / Oxford International Education Group www.languagecanada.com MacEwan University www.macewan.ca/asiapacific McGill MBA Japan www.mcgillmbajapan.com

Energy FortisBC www.fortisbc.com Solar Power Network K.K. http://solarpowernetwork.co.jp

030 / The Canadian

Directory Engineering

High Technology

Avcorp Industries Inc. www.avcorp.com

TechInsights Japan K.K. www.techinsights.com

Linamar Japan Inc. www.linamar.com

Thales www.thalesgroup.com/en

Food & Beverage KMDI International http://kmdi.co.jp Maple Leaf Foods Japan Inc. www.mlfj.jp Royal Canadian Water Company Ltd. www.royalcanadianwater.com

Forestry Interex http://interexfp.com TimberWest Forest Corp. www.timberwest.com

General Trading Houses Hitachi High-Technologies Corporation www.hitachi-hitec.com Mitsubishi Corporation www.mitsubishicorp.com Nakagawa Japan Co. Ltd. Tower Knives www.towerknives.com

Government Representatives Alberta Japan Office www.albertacanada.com/japan British Columbia Trade and Investment Office, Japan www.britishcolumbia.ca Délégation générale du Québec à Tokyo www.mri.gouv.qc.ca/tokyo Embassy Of Canada www.canadainternational.gc.ca/ japan-japon Ontario International Marketing Centre www.investinontario.com

Hotels & Accommodation

Lawyers & Legal Services Borden Ladner Gervais LLP www.blg.com/en Bull Housser www.bht.com Davis LLP – Davis & Takahashi www.davis.jp

Pharmaceuticals Sato Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. www.sato-seiyaku.co.jp

Real Estate & Property Century 21 Sky Realty www.century21japan.com

Grand Hyatt Tokyo http://tokyo.grand.hyatt.com

Gowling Lafleur Henderson LLP www.gowlings.com

New Otani Co. Ltd. www.newotani.co.jp

Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP www.osler.com

ReDev Properties www.redevgroup.com

Nakai Immigration Services LPC www.tokyovisa.co.jp

Showa Sangyo www.showa-sangyo.co.jp

TMI Associates www.tmi.gr.jp

www.tsi-direct.com

Human Resources & Training Pasona Canada Inc. www.pasona.com www.pasonagroup.co.jp

Torys LLP www.torys.com

Randstad K.K. www.randstad.co.jp

Transfer Canada Pacific Management Ltd. www.tcpm-21.com White & Case LLP www.whitecase.com www.whitecase.co.jp

Insurance AIU Insurance Company www.aiu.co.jp Bridges International Insurance Service www.biis.ca

GPlus Media www.gplusmedia.com

Manulife www.manulife.co.jp Manulife Interpretation www.manulife.co.jp

Translation

Marketing & Communications

&

Office M-Brains Thomas Consultants International Co. Ltd. ww.thomasconsultantsintl.com YPS International www.yps-international.com

IT & Software Emissary Computer Solutions www.emissary.co.jp

Thomson Reuters http://thomsonreuters.com

Minerals & Metals Canpotex (Japan) Limited www.canpotex.com Rio Tinto www.riotinto.com

Colliers International www.colliers.com

Transportation & Freight

Fednav www.fednav.com/en

Testing & Certification CSA Group Japan www.csagroup.org

Disclaimer: As this list will be made public, no information regarding individual members will be available. Individual membership information and member representative contacts will be made available to the general CCCJ membership in the Annual Membership Directory.This information is also available— for members only—on the CCCJ website. www.cccj.or.jp

Movers & Relocation Asian Tigers Mobility www.asiantigers-japan.com

Petroleum Products Chevron International Gas Inc. www.chevron.com Idemitsu Kosan Co. Ltd. www.idemitsu.com

The Canadian / 031

New Members

D C

OUR MOST IMPORTANT ASSETS

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Japan relies on the expertise and skill of its individual and corporate members — who are the heart of the chamber. We would like to welcome the new cccj members listed in this directory — both businesses and individuals — as they are integral to the continued growth and prosperity of the Japan-Canada business relationship. They have discovered the benefits of membership in the cccj.

DON NISHIO MANNING ELLIOT

Manning Elliott is one of the most well-respected and progressive mid-sized accounting and business advisory firms in the Greater Vancouver area. It provides personalized service to companies operating within a wide range of industries in five major practice areas: private companies, public companies, Hometown: Vancouver not-for-profit organizations, taxation and estate planning and business sucJapan Since: 2012 cession. In addition to its major practices, it also provides specialty services LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/don-nishioto clients located in Japan, China, Latin America and the U.S. 169ba52b Manning Elliott partner, Don Nishio, leads the firm’s Japanese business services group, which provides specialized accounting, tax and business advisory services to new and existing businesses from Japan who are operating in Canada or planning to establish operations in Canada. Nishio previously lived in Japan for four years and speaks Japanese as a second language. There are also four other native Japanese speakers in his group. He works with Japanese clients in many industries including tourism, transportation, LNG exploration and transportation, software development, game app development, inspection services, import and export as well as real estate development and holding.

ENRIQUE VELEZ JAPAN CREATIVE ENTERPRISE Hometown: Toronto, Ont. Japan Since: 2003 LinkedIn: https://jp.linkedin.com/in/enrique-alejandro-velez-b2732718

PAUL NEUMAN PACIFIC AIKIDO Hometown: Vancouver, B.C. Japan Since: 1994

CAM GRAY TMF GROUP JAPAN

Paul Neuman was born and raised in Vancouver but considers Tokyo his home. "I absolutely love this city," he says. "How so many people can coexist so peacefully is amazing." So many years of constantly discovering new places makes the city an explorer’s paradise to him.

Neuman arrived in 1994 to train in aikido at its world headquarters — where he met his wife. He is the owner and chief instructor of Pacific Aikido where he operates aikido programs for kids and adults at various locations around Tokyo. He joined the CCCJ to learn from other Canadian business professionals in the hopes of improving his business — and himself. Learning about other Canucks and their lives here is also a big plus.

Hometown: Victoria, B.C. Japan Since: 2016 LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/ graycam

032 / The Canadian

Cam Gray spent the past nine years working with the government of British Columbia, directing human resource information systems and payroll outsourcing. He opted to pursue an opportunity in August of last year to work at TMF Group Japan, heading its payroll outsourcing services. He is pleased to be living in the vibrant, world-class city of Tokyo. As a Canadian, he looks forward to being active within the CCCJ doing what he can to promote and support Canadians and Canadian businesses with interests in Japan.

Enrique Velez is digital communication director and a senior partner at Japan Creative Enterprise (JCE), a young and dynamic agency that helps corporate teams transform their business and manage their talent.

Velez has an honours degree in specialized economics and business from York University. He is certified by the Canadian Securities Institute and has an MBA from the Graduate School of Management, Globis University. He is looking forward to using his network, energy and passion to help make the CCCJ even more effective in building real connections between Japan and Canada.

ANDREW LEITCH PACIFIC AIKIDO Hometown: Winnipeg Man. Japan Since: 2014

Andrew Leitch is originally from Winnipeg, but lived in British Columbia for more than 10 years before coming to Japan. He came to Japan initially for a holiday and a friend’s wedding, but ended up staying for the aikido. He now works for Pacific Aikido, teaching the Japanese martial art in international schools and taking classes daily at Akikai Hombu Dojo in Shinjuku, the sport’s world headquarters. He studied economics at the University of Winnipeg and volunteered for the Canadian Red Cross in Victoria teaching first aid to disaster management volunteers. Following a car accident in 2008, Leitch decided that he wanted to teach people about water safety and first aid, so he certified to teach several Red Cross first aid courses as well as swimming lessons and several Royal Lifesaving Society courses. He’s currently looking to establish a company in Tokyo that teaches first aid and the basics of automated external defibrillators, or AEDs.

Chamber Voices Robert Sakai-Irvine is a journalist and university lecturer in Tokyo. jp.linkedin.com/in/RSakaiIrvine

OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS

C

BY ROBERT SAKAI-IRVINE

PLAY THE HAND YOU’RE DEALT A DIVISIVE NEW U.S. PRESIDENT COULD HAVE CANADA-JAPAN TRADE COME UP TRUMPS So what happens now?

This was the question being asked — incredulously, fearfully — by many of us as the hours of Nov. 8 clawed their way by, and we were all faced with one unlikely fact: Donald J. Trump would be the 45th president of the United States.

The news inspired much gnashing of teeth and rending of garments across the U.S. and, indeed, across the world (certainly in the Tokyo newsroom where I work).

Understandably so. After Trump’s blatant election campaign appeals to Islamophobia, xenophobia and misogyny, after his racially-charged innuendo and quiet acceptance of the Nazi-scented “alt-right,” his election felt like an outright assault on the enlightened ideas many of us (especially after eight years of gentleman-progressive Barack Obama) thought had come to animate majority values in 21st century America. The spike in hate crimes after election night seemed to confirm our worst fears.

However, Trump’s campaign statements had another group looking ahead with trepidation: world leaders. Again, it’s easy to see why. The Donald’s hints that he may not honour U.S. commitments to defend nato nations unless they pay for American protection had European governments — especially those nearest to Russia — worried that the security and stability of their continent was about to lose its most powerful sponsor. Closer to home, he levelled similar “freeloader” accusations at South Korea and Japan, insisting they pay more for the privilege of having the u.s. military in their countries. Alarmingly, he also hinted — repeatedly — that he'd like to see them acquire nuclear weapons (and then denied ever saying such a thing).

And then there’s trade. nafta may be in Trump’s sights. The Trans-Pacific Partnership (tpp), in which Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has invested so much political

capital, is already going down in flames. If Trump stays true to his word, we may all get to find out what a U.S.-China trade war looks like..

The point is this: No major capital — not even Moscow — knows what President Trump will mean for world diplomatic and economic affairs. He is a weaponized version of the bull in the China shop (pun intended); a purposeful

The Trump ascendancy is a chance to reinvigorate and expand the Japan-Canada relationship

”

destroyer of certainty.

Now, America’s friends and allies are looking around for reliable partners, just in case this whole Trumpian experiment in stream-of-barely-consciousness foreign policy goes pear-shaped. And while Abe, with his efforts to get early face time with the new prez, may be doing his level best to slip into The Donald’s breast pocket, Japan is facing at least as much uncertainty as anyone else.

Enter, I dare say, Canada. As strange as it may seem to say at this moment of global angst, the Trump ascendancy is a chance to reinvigorate and expand the Japan-Canada relationship, especially on trade. First and foremost, Canada is stable, with a strong and popular government set to be in

charge for at least the next four years. It has an excellent track record of commitment to rules-based diplomacy and international trade-building, most recently with the conclusion of the Canada-EU Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (ceta). And it is an excellent fit in terms of Japan’s needs: from energy and natural resources to manufacturing and access to the U.S. market.

It appears that Japan is at least cognizant of the increased importance of this bilateral link. The prime ministers Abe and Trudeau met on Nov. 19 on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in Lima, Peru, to reaffirm their commitment to free trade and deeper ties. A pro forma diplomatic gesture, perhaps, but the timing is significant, and a signal that now is the time for businesses on both sides of the Pacific to push hard for a Japan-Canada epa — signed, sealed and soon.

One point of note: though the tpp may be about to crater, the negotiations that went into it may have made it easier to get a Japan-Canada deal done. For example, for the sake of the tpp, Japan has already agreed to compromise on its agricultural sacred spaces and begun to prepare its farming sector for the shift. As agriculture promised to be one of the stickiest points in a bilateral deal, this is good news for those hoping for a quick epa consensus.

As Trump takes the reigns of the U.S. government and we head into a period of uncertainty, countries will increasingly look to friends of the rock-steady sort. On trade and on values, Canada is that friend — the suddenly essential nation. Officials in Tokyo and Ottawa must realize this, listen to the voice of their businesses and bind our countries closer together Let’s start with getting that epa done, and go from there.

The Canadian / 033

Retrography

R

CHROMA

CANADIAN PACIFIC — RMS Empress of Japan This ocean liner, also known as the “Queen of the Pacific,” was launched in Liverpool in 1890 by Lady Alice Stanley — daughter-in-law of Lord Stanley (namesake of the famous hockey trophy) who was then the Governor-General of Canada — for Canadian Pacific Steamships.

She was the first of two CP vessels to be named Empress of Japan and regularly crossed the Pacific from Canada’s West Coast until 1922. While in service, the Empress made 315 ocean crossings, traveling more than 4 million kilometres. For over 20 years she had the distinction of being the fastest boat to cross the Pacific Ocean. Her dragon masthead has been preserved and now rests at the seawall in Vancouver’s Stanley Park.

The RMS Empress of Japan in the First Narrows of Burrard Inlet, Vancouver. June 1893.

The 034Canadian / The Canadian / 034

passionate people; passionate about food

MAPLE LEAF FOODS JAPAN INC. Toranomon 2chome Tower 10F 2-3-17 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo TEL: 03-3593-6841 / URL: http://www.mlfj.jp