Bridging Nations
On 75 years of shaping US–Japan business relations and our evolving role.
The 75th anniversary of the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) is an important time to reflect on all we’ve accomplished, how far we’ve come, and how much more there is to achieve.
The ACCJ was founded in 1948 by 40 companies. Today, the chamber comprises nearly 600 companies and 3,100 members.
The mandate 75 years ago was clear: to further commerce between the United States and Japan, to support Japan’s economic recovery following World War II, and to improve the international business environment in Japan. Today, the two nations have one of the world’s most important alliances. Based on shared values, the bilateral relationship is the cornerstone of peace and stability in the Indo–Pacific region.
As we find ourselves in a much more complex world—one that is changing rapidly—the ACCJ must be agile and adapt if we are to continue serving our purpose and our members.
State of the Chamber
Over the past year, through strong advocacy and high-caliber speaker and networking events, the ACCJ has proven why it is known as the voice of global business in Japan. This is a tribute to all the contributions of our members, who are the lifeblood of the chamber and drive its activities.
We’ve made significant progress on the four priorities tied to the ACCJ core pillars that I outlined at the start of the year:
- Maximize advocacy impact
- Increase in-person networking
- Improve committee efficiency
- Deepen community service
We’ve seen great strides in key advocacy areas: strengthening the US–Japan security and economic partnership, digital transformation, and promoting diverse talent, including marriage equality in Japan.
Our many engagements with US and Japanese government officials—including during both the DC and Diet Doorknocks—highlighted how policymakers trust the ACCJ as a resource on US and international business issues in Japan. We’ve strengthened relations with stakeholders across both sides of the Pacific and continue to make our positions heard on key issues impacting US–Japan relations.
Act Fast and Be Decisive
As I mentioned, the world is changing and the ACCJ must continuously improve itself to remain effective. I started my career as a fighter pilot, and the key to winning in aerial combat is to make decisions in an ever-changing environment. We called it the OODA loop—observe, orient, decide, act. The pilot with the faster cycle was usually the winner. The same applies to business and the chamber.
The US–Japan relationship is at its highest point ever. Good times like this present the best opportunities to get the most done and have the difficult conversations, and the ACCJ and our members have a critical and relevant role to play.
This year also marks the end of my presidency. I thank all my fellow board members, committee leaders, and ACCJ members for their contributions and support. Personally, and professionally, it has been a privilege to work alongside you. I learned so much from our members and made many friends.
I’m honored to pass the reins to Victor Osumi. I know he will do an amazing job as your next ACCJ president.
I strongly encourage more members—especially our newest members—to participate and get involved. We need your passion, expertise, and voice to continue effecting much-needed change.
Seven-and-a-half decades after its founding, the chamber continues to thrive and grow, and I’m confident that, whatever challenges lie ahead, all of you will advance our strong 75-year legacy and further enhance the US–Japan business environment as well as our alliance and friendship.
I wish you all a safe, healthy, and prosperous New Year, and look forward to participating in the ACCJ’s success in the future!
