Mr. Peter Kronschnabl

I would like to begin by wishing you a Happy New Year!

Looking back at last year, first and foremost, the country suffered from the Kumamoto Earthquake and other terrible disasters of eruptions, typhoons and the like in various regions. Again, my thoughts are with those who were affected and I wish for the quickest recovery.

Turning to Japan’s economy, we saw improvements in employment and capital spending by businesses last year. Overall the economy picked up moderately; however, recovery in private consumption remains not so strong.

The imported car market performed well in 2016, thanks to vigorous introductions by JAIA members of new models equipped with latest safety systems and eco-friendly cars such as plug-in hybrid vehicles, clean diesel vehicles etc.

Against such backdrop, in an attempt to support business activities of its members and contribute to sustainable development of the country’s motor vehicle market, JAIA undertook external affairs activities aimed at achieving international harmonization of environmental and safety regulations, and certification systems, in Japan. Also, for the FY 2017 Taxation Revision, we made requests to reduce tax burden on users, ensure fairness and streamline the tax system.

In order to continue swiftly delivering new technologies and attractive vehicles to Japanese customers in the new year also, JAIA will spare no efforts to further promote international harmonization of regulations and realize reduced burdens, fairness and streamlining of auto-related taxes in close communication with the ministries and other associations concerned.

I would like to ask for your continued support to JAIA’s activities in 2017 as well, and again, wish you a very happy new year.