Mr. Peter Kronschnabl

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

Last year, Japan’s economy continued to recover modestly and as of September, the economic expansion had lasted for 58 months for the second longest upturn after WWII, with private consumption also picking up steadily.

Looking back at the imported car market in 2017, JAIA’s member importers performed well thanks to their hard efforts to introduce new models, including BEVs, PHEVs and clean diesel vehicles, equipped with advanced safety features as well as the latest SUVs that meet the diversified lifestyles and needs of customers.

Throughout the last year, in an attempt to extend support for the business activities of the member companies and contribute to sustainable development of Japan’s motor vehicle market, JAIA engaged in external affairs activities for international harmonization of standards and regulations on the environment, such as exhaust emissions, the regulations on safety in the Japanese market, as well as the system of vehicle certification.

In the new year, JAIA will continue sparing no effort to focus on further international harmonization of regulations and the achievement of reduced burdens, fairness and streamlining of auto-related taxes so as to allow the members to deliver more of their new models equipped with cutting-edge technologies to the customers in Japan, while maintaining close communication with the ministries and other associations concerned.

I would like to ask for your understanding of and continued support for the activities of JAIA in 2018 as well and again wish all of you the very best in the new year.