BIZ STREAM

[On-Site Report] Currently, there are 111 active volcanoes in Japan. While eruptions and ash plumes are often a cause of concern, some companies are finding unique ways to put fallen ash to good use. This episode features one company that is using volcanic ash to create cooking plates that offer remarkable heat retention properties and another that is using the ash in its water purification technology. [In Depth: RCEP Set to Reshape Trade in Asia-Pacific] A massive trade pact in Asia-Pacific took effect this month. RCEP is the first multilateral trade agreement to include China. We look at how the deal could reshape economies in the region, and expand Beijing's influence. [Global Trends: India's Clean Solution to Rural Shortages] As the third-biggest emitter of carbon, India is pivotal in efforts to reduce greenhouse gases. But many of its rural areas still struggle to secure a stable supply of power. One company is tackling both problems by producing clean energy closer to home.

[On-Site Report] This episode shows how combining IoT technology with circular farming practices such as using chicken manure to heat greenhouses is proving to be just as good for farmers as it is the environment. [In Depth: Turkey's Rate Cutting Turmoil] People in Turkey are struggling with skyrocketing prices for everyday items as the value of the country's currency nosedives. We examine what's happening and the motives of the man who's behind the turmoil. [Global Trends: Imperfect Produce Trends Takes Shape] Major retailers in Japan are trying to cut back on the waste and work that goes into making perfect produce. We look at the benefits of selling items that sacrifice appearance without skimping on taste.

[On-Site Report] As more companies and consumers turn towards solar power, new businesses are starting to emerge to support this expanding market. This episode features a Japanese company that has created a robot designed specifically for cleaning solar panels and another business that is using satellite data and AI to choose the best locations for panel placement. [In Depth: China's "Zero-Covid" Policy Risks Economic Contagion] The Beijing Olympics is putting the spotlight on China's measures to contain the coronavirus. The country has been living under a strict zero-COVID policy. But the highly contagious Omicron variant has some questioning whether the economic costs are sustainable. [Global Trends: Indonesia's EV Push Carries Carbon Cost] Indonesia is eyeing a future as a hub for the electric vehicle industry. It wants to make use of the country's vast supply of nickel to help build batteries. But the plan is drawing concern from a surprising source: environmentalists. We find ou

[On-Site Report] Security features that are normally used to validate and protect digital art are now being applied to physical art. By attaching an IC tag that incorporates blockchain technology, the authenticity and ownership of any artwork can be easily verified. [In Depth: Logistics Turmoil Leads to Short Supply of French Fries] Japanese fast-food chains have been suffering from a lack of french fries due to a shortage of potatoes. We look at the turmoil in global supply chains that's behind the problem. [Global Trends: South Korea emerges as playground for "unicorns"] Successful South Korean startups like high-speed online retailers, known as "unicorns," are attracting worldwide attention. They are also drawing huge investments amid tensions between the US and China.

[On-Site Report] This episode features a cosmetics retailer that is taking its in-store consulting services online and a self-service salon that gives members unlimited access to a variety of high-end beauty products. [In Depth: Japan's Economic Recovery Lags Behind] Japan's economy is recovering from the effect of the coronavirus pandemic. But the world's third largest economy is lagging behind other countries. We look into why. [Global Trends: Fostering the New Generation of Social Entrepreneurs] Social businesses tackle environmental problems, human rights issues or other causes. But it is not always easy for them to secure funding or turn a profit. We learn about a network that is helping social entrepreneurs help each other.

[On-Site Report] Eleven years have passed since the Great East Japan Earthquake devastated Japan's Tohoku region. This episode follows the story of a young woman who survived the disaster as a child and went on to study abroad. Since returning home, she has been working to help revitalize her town's fishing industry by helping local fishermen export seafood to America. [In Depth: Japan Pushes Economic Security Measures] Countries including Japan have been moving to protect strategic resources and industries amid heightened global tensions. We see what the changes mean for economies and businesses going forward. [Global Trends: The Desert of Excess] Piles of clothing that are no longer wanted have been accumulating in a desert in Chile, creating pollution and health hazards in the region. We see what happens when mass production runs amok.

[On-Site Report] After being forced to leave from his hometown following the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster, a pottery kiln owner struggled to keep his 300-year-old craft alive. By teaming up with his business-savvy son, the duo is now using modern technology and marketing techniques to create products with international appeal. [In Depth: Ukraine Situation Threatens Effort to Tame Inflation] Russia faces a growing range of sanctions in the wake of its invasion of Ukraine. The US has added Russia's energy industry to the list. We see how that risks a further acceleration of global inflation. [Global Trends: America's 'Great Resignation' Risk for Recovery] "Great Resignation" has become a popular hashtag in the US, where a record number of workers are choosing to quit their jobs. We look at why so many think this is the time to make a move.

[On-Site Report] Despite living in an age where nearly everything is going digital, some companies are responding to increased demand for high-quality analog audio options. This episode features a small business that is refurbishing and selling vintage boomboxes and an OEM manufacturer that decided to show off its capabilities by producing an ultra-high-end record player. [In Depth: Situation in Ukraine Puts Central Banks in Dilemma] Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has sparked inflation concerns that are making for some difficult choices for central banks around the world. We look at why it’s a tough call for those who are in the phase of tightening policies ... as well as those doing the opposite like Japan. [Global Trends: Bamboo Architecture Sprouts Up in Bali] Design firms on the Indonesian island of Bali are creating a new style of sustainable architecture using a plentiful resource ... bamboo. We see how they are combining cutting-edge ideas with traditional craftsmanship.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has sent shockwaves across the global economy. From energy to food product, this episode will examine the economic impacts the war in Ukraine is having on Japan and other parts of the world.

This episode introduces a wearable navigation product for visually impaired users and a new device that allows people who have lost their voice boxes to speak with a more natural-sounding voice. [In Focus: BOJ Chief Faces Stronger Headwinds in Final Year] Japanese consumers are seeing prices soar for food and other daily necessities. But wages and demand are not increase. Together, these have created a dilemma that is haunting the head of the nation's central bank. [Global Trends: From Clothing to Food] The fashion industry is making the shift to sustainable business models. We see how one company is making clothes from traditional Japanese washi paper ... so they can be used to help grow vegetables.

Featuring a textile company that offers a restoration service for its high-quality towels and a shoe repair business that is breathing new life into well-worn sneakers, this episode focuses on businesses that are helping consumers to get the most out of their belongings. [In Focus: China's Zero-Covid Policy Weighs on Global Economy] China continues to deploy strict measures to contain the coronavirus. But the strategy is being severely tested, with surging cases and clear damage to the economy. It's also having repercussions for businesses across the globe. [Global Trends: Gadget Demand Sparks 'Tin Rush' in Rural Indonesia] Prices of tin, used in making smartphones and personal computers, have been skyrocketing. This has triggered rush in mining in parts of rural Indonesia, having an impact on people's lives and raising concerns about the environment.

Maintaining and protecting vital pieces of infrastructure is a key issue for many governments around the world. This episode shows how Japanese companies are using innovative technologies to help keep the country's towns and cities running safely and smoothly. [In Focus: Aggressive Fed Hike Sets Off Alarms for World Economy] Sharp rate hikes by the US Federal Reserve have sent shockwaves through the global economy. But the risks going forward could be greater than some might expect. We take a look at the fine line the Fed is walking and why the bank might stray from it. [Global Trends: No Substitute for Jackfruit] A massive tropical produce called jackfruit is getting another look for its potential as a meat substitute. We see how it's being used as the key ingredient for growing business opportunities.

Despite decades of fast fashion dominance and the rise of online shopping, sewing is experiencing a surge in popularity. This episode features a company that has created a compact and easy-to-use personal sewing machine designed to meet the needs of modern users and a manufacturer that has started renting its professional-grade machines to ambitious amateur seamsters.

From the deep blacks used for dyeing formal kimono, to altering and accentuating colorful designs using a traditional dyeing process, this episode shows how traditional Japanese fabric dyeing techniques are now being used to give clothing a unique and modern look. [In Focus: Shanghai Lockdown Ends, but Scars on Economy Remain] People are finally leaving their homes and going back to work. China's biggest city, Shanghai, has begun lifting restrictions put in place to contain the coronavirus. We examine what this means for China's economy, and if it can get back on track toward meeting its growth target. [Global Trends: Sake Sales Get Remedies for Covid Hangover] The sake industry has been struggling as restaurant sales decline and younger people turn away from this traditional beverage. We take a look at how new technologies and marketing techniques are emerging to promote the pleasures of sake in ways that are more in tune with the times.

Japan's mountainous terrain has always made harvesting and transporting crops difficult and sometimes dangerous. As the country's population ages, the risks and challenges older farm workers have to face have become more apparent than ever. This episode shows how robots and vehicles designed by agricultural technology experts are helping to make things safer and easier for Japan's aging farmers. [In Focus: Kishida Pins Hopes on 'New Capitalism'] Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio says he can turn around the country's economy with his new policy. The aim is to create growth by tackling social challenges. This is a shift from his previous plan, which would have focused on wealth redistribution. But that sparked concerns about maintaining growth. [Global Trends: Brits Hit by Historic Inflation] Consumers in the UK are having to pay a lot more for everything from a pint at the pub ... to electricity. The biggest jump in prices in 40 years is linked to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Each year, Japan produces millions of tons of food waste. This episode features businesses that are striving to reduce this waste by creating new products made from ingredients that would otherwise be thrown away. [In Focus: Japan Reopens to Tourists, Sort of] Japan has finally resumed accepting overseas tourists, but it's far from a full reopening. There are numerous restrictions on foreign visitors, and some worry the measures may blunt any economic benefits. [Global Trends: Sustainable Style Grows in Thailand] Fashion industry companies in Thailand are looking to take the waste out of wear. Firms are finding ways to make use of excess fabric and clothing, and young people are snapping it up.

As Japan's domestic market evolves, many small and medium-sized manufacturers are finding less orders coming in from the companies they usually rely on for sales. This episode shows how some of these businesses are shifting away from the standard business-to-business model and towards creating their own products to sell directly to consumers. [In Focus: Labor Shortage a Risk to Japan Tourism Recovery] Travelers are on the move again in Japan, much to the relief of the local tourism industry. But there is a risk of a worker shortage as businesses ramp up. We visit some popular destinations to see how they are handling the influx. [Global Trends: Asian Startups Add Sustainability to Pet Food] Pet ownership is said to have increased significantly worldwide during the pandemic, stoking demand for related products. Some pet food makers in Southeast Asia are using insects as an ingredient in their products to promote sustainability.

From sake and soy sauce to miso paste, fermented foods are a cornerstone of Japanese cuisine. This episode features food manufacturers that are hoping to see sales rise by getting creative with yeast. [In Focus: Assessing the Impact of Abe's Economic Legacy] Former Prime Minister Abe Shinzo was Japan's longest-serving modern leader and one of its most prominent political figures. As the nation mourns his death, we look at the legacy of his economic policy, what may be in store for the future. [Global Trends: Singapore's 3D Shipping Revolution] Shipping hub Singapore is on a mission to enhance its global role by revolutionizing how ships are repaired, using 3D printers to make parts quickly. We take a look at how this project is going.

Whether it's for feeding, milking or breeding, dairy farmers must keep constantly monitor their cattle. This episode shows how technology and automation are helping to improve cow health and increase productivity. [In Focus: Russia Puts Countries on Brink of Energy Disaster] Gas supplies have emerged as a new threat in the standoff between Moscow and Western nations over the invasion of Ukraine. We look at how the potential loss of Russian energy is impacting Europe and even Japan. [Global Trends: Potato Crisis] Potatoes are a popular agricultural product across the world that originate in the Andes. But cultivation in the region has come under threat. We take a look at what's behind the problem and how locals are trying to adapt.

By 2040, it is estimated that old or broken solar panels will result in 8 million tons of waste each year. This episode features companies that are making solar energy even more environmentally friendly by focusing on ways to reuse or recycle used solar panels. [In Focus: Ushering in a New Era of 'Made in Japan'] Some global manufacturers are choosing to set up in Japan after decades of locating in developing nations to take advantage of lower labor costs. We look at what's behind this trend. [Global Trends: Indonesia's 'Coffee-Tech' Pioneers Brew Success] Indonesia is one of the world's leading exporters of coffee beans. Now some companies are turning their attention to the domestic market. They're using the latest tech to make it easy for coffee lovers to get their daily caffeine fix.

From a tiny personal sauna that can fit on a balcony, to a city bus that has been turned into a spacious traveling sauna, this episode features some of the steamiest business trends in Japan. [In Focus: Energy Crisis Spurs Nuclear Power Revival] Germany's industries that rely on natural gas are suffering from soaring prices. And Japan has rolled out three-month measures to save energy to prevent blackouts. We look at how these factors are turning energy policies back toward nuclear power. [Global Trends: Finding Value in Vacant Homes] Japan has a growing number of vacant and abandoned houses. There are some creative approaches businesses are using to let owners profit from these buildings ... and for tenants to drive their dream homes.

As Japan's population continues to age, new types of soft foods are starting to gain popularity in the eldercare field. This episode features innovative new food products that look like regular food, but are made to be extremely soft and easy to eat. [In Focus: Japan Slow to Catch Post-Pandemic Tourism Wave] Japan is further relaxing its border controls. But it's still far from a full reopening, as the government maintains its vigilance against the coronavirus. Foreign tourists are largely bypassing the country in favor of more welcoming destinations. [Global Trends: Ammonia Shows Promise as Fuel for Cleaner Future] Climate change and Russia's invasion of Ukraine are prompting consideration of a new fuel, ammonia, which may be both cleaner and more sustainable. Efforts are underway in Japan and the United States to make ammonia a key ingredient in producing power.

The number of laundromats in Japan has doubled over the past 20 years. This episode shows how new takes on the traditional business model are offering more choices to consumers and helping their owners to draw in new customers. [In Focus: Skepticism Looms Over Indo-Pacific Partnership] The US wants countries in the Indo-Pacific to form a new economic partnership. Washington hopes it will promote growth in the region while helping it gain influence. But some say the effort is more bark than bite. [Global Trends: 'White Gold' Rush] Lithium-ion batteries are increasingly being used in all kinds of products. And that means big business for South America, which is sitting on an abundance of lithium. Big changes are now coming to the region as companies rush to extract its 'white gold.'

This episode features race car driver and entrepreneur Ihara Keiko. Taking advantage of her experience and connections in motorsport, her forward-thinking company has developed an easy-to-ride personal mobility vehicle. [In Focus: Uncertainty Ahead Following Japan's Currency Intervention] Countries around the world are trying to curb inflation but they have destabilized their currencies in the process. Japan intervened in the market to stop the yen from weakening further. We explore the prospects for the Japanese currency going forward. [Global Trends: Reviving a Coffee Variety from The Philippines] A variety of coffee from the Philippines is getting an international push. An exporter is working with farmers with the aim of making their coffee known around the world ... and they are starting in Japan.

Despite its precision aluminum molding capabilities, Sakamoto Tomomi returned home to find her father's business struggling to stay afloat. Inspired by her passion for gardening, she turned things around by designing and producing an award-winning flower vase. [In Focus: 50 Years on, Japan-China Ties Not Aging Well] Japan and China have little to celebrate despite this year marking half a century of normalized relations. We see how straining economic and political ties are prompting Japanese companies to take their business elsewhere. [Global Trends: Keeping Social Media Real] A new social media platform shuns made-for-Instagram moments and glossy photos in favor of authentic images. The app's embrace of the mundane is gaining a following among young users. We try the service out and see what life is like on the mild side.

Data annotation is the process of categorizing and labeling the information needed to bridge the gap between sample data and AI machine learning. This week's special interview features Sagara Miori, president and CEO of Baobab. She sits down to talk with us about her company and how its diverse workforce has allowed it to become a global leader in this emerging field. [In Focus: High Hopes for Japan's Reopened Borders] Japan is finally open to the world again after removing most of its pandemic border restrictions. We look into why this is a major development for travelers, the tourism industry ... and even the national economy as a whole. [Global Trends: Turning to Tech to Stop Fake Products] Efforts to export high-end Japanese products such as fine sake has led to brand recognition ... but also fake products. High tech solutions can ensure that the products that reach consumers are real.

Aquaculture now supplies nearly 50% of the world's seafood. Despite its importance, many companies in the industry are currently faced with a variety of challenges such as rising ocean temperatures and increasing competition. This episode shows how some Japanese companies are using technology and innovative ideas to ensure their businesses remain afloat. [In Focus: Stimulus Spurs Worries Over Further Yen Decline] People in Japan are growing frustrated. They are seeing their wallets emptied out as grocery and utility bills rise. The government wants to ease the situation, but there's a big price tag. We look at the risk it poses to the national currency. [Global Trends: Kapok Making Fashion Sustainable] A growing number of apparel shoppers want to be both fashionable and environmentally-conscious. And many of them are learning about a natural fiber that can replace synthetic ones or material from animals.

The war in Ukraine has sent fertilizer prices skyrocketing to record highs. This episode shows how Japanese companies are using alternative production methods and AI technology to bring costs back down to earth.

As the number of dual income families in Japan increases, the baby care market is expecting to see further growth over the next 5 years. Many of these products and services are centered on offering increased safety and improved convenience. This week's episode features a portable child care pod and an AI-based remote infant monitoring system.

With a large portion of Japan's extensive infrastructure in use for nearly 60 years, experts must now constantly work to repair and maintain the nation's roads and highways. This report features companies that are using smartphones to identify and log damaged roads and manholes. [In Focus: China Unrest Threatens Global Economy] People took to the streets in China in a rare show of defiance, demanding the government end its strict coronavirus measures. We look at what the implications are for the global economy. [Global Trends: Kyoto Tweaks Tourism with Technology] Tourists have returned to Kyoto Prefecture. Japan's ancient capital is eager to regain its place as a top destination, but is also hoping technology can help keep the massive crowds in check.

Age-tech is technology that is made to meet the needs of older adults or for those who take care of them. This week's episode introduces a game-like VR rehabilitation program that helps users to recover or even gain leg strength and a new type of flooring material designed to soften the impact from dangerous falls.

In an era of mass consumption, some Japanese companies are now turning to recycling and restoration to get the most out of key materials. This episode shows how cotton from traditional futons is being recycled for use in modern cushions and mattresses and how a knife maker is helping ensure that quality kitchen knives can be used to their fullest.