BIZ STREAM

In March 2022, the award-winning architect Ban Shigeru helped create special shelters in Poland for Ukrainian refugees. In September, he led a team of students in designing a prefabricated house that can be quickly made from materials available in Poland and Ukraine. This week's episode features an in-depth interview with Ban Shigeru to learn more about his mission to create places or refuge for displaced Ukrainians. [In Focus: Tech Bonanza Showcases Products of Tomorrow] Innovation returned to Las Vegas in full force... The influential tech event CES was held fully in-person once again. We take a peek into the future with some of the products that took center stage. [Global Trends: Thai Green Tea Fans Seek Perfect Cup] Japanese green tea has been enjoying popularity in Thailand. Recently, young consumers are seeking taste experiences that use local ingredients ... as well as ones steeped in tradition.

This episode features a unique new Japanese tableware rental service. The concept is helping restaurants facing tight budgets while also providing a boost to an industry that has been struggling for several years. [In Focus: China Eases Tech Crackdown with Strings Attached] China seems to be easing its crackdown on technology companies that's been going on for two years. But is Beijing really giving up control? Or is it just pursuing a different strategy? We dig into what's really behind the latest moves. [Global Trends: Growing Philippine Middle Class Offers Enticing Market] The Philippine economy continues expanding at a rapid pace, supported by a growing middle class with a taste for consumption. We take a look at how Japanese businesses have set their sights on this attractive market.

Many of Japan's large apartment complexes have been standing for over half a century. A combination of aging facilities and increasing vacancies are putting their futures at risk. This episode features a strategy to revive them by bringing in unique businesses to fill some of those spaces and draw-in new tenants and visitors. [In Focus: China's EV Debut in Japan Shakes Up Auto Industry] China's biggest electric carmaker is rolling into Japan. The company has started selling an electric SUV in the country amid a global shift to EVs. We look at how the changing landscape is pressuring Japanese automakers. [Global Trends: Mexican Communities Seek Common Currency Beyond Money] Children in Mexico are learning to be producers, buyers and sellers in their own economic system. The program is part of a movement to help local people look beyond money and focus on the environment around them.

In addition to writing paper, traditional Japanese washi paper has long been used in a variety of ways, such as for making lamp shades and door and window screens. This episode looks at how some companies are taking the ancient material into the future through even more sustainable production methods and creative new applications. [In Focus: Daunting Challenge Awaits Kuroda's Successor] In a surprise move, the Japanese government plans to nominate an economist and former Bank of Japan policymaker to be the central bank's next governor. We take a look at the challenges that await the new leadership. [Global Trends: Salmon Demand Boosts, Strains Industry in Chile] Chile's fish farming industry is helping to meet the growing global demand for salmon. Despite providing a much needed boost to the country's economy, various factors are putting the industry at risk.

This episode features a business that collects and uses various types of plastic marine waste to create a range of household products and a company that makes extremely durable backpacks and bags out of discarded fishing nets. [In Focus: India Feels Shockwave from Adani Turmoil] Snowballing fraud allegations against Indian corporate giant Adani Group have sparked controversy and sent protesters into the streets. We look at how turmoil at the company led by one of the world's richest men is being felt throughout Asia's 3rd-biggest economy. [Global Trends: Turning Construction Waste into Tomorrow's Buildings] Building material left over at construction sites is creating a big waste problem in Japan. We meet a business operator who picks out the good stuff and sells it for use in future construction projects.

It's been 12 years since the Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami inundated much of Japan's coastline. This episode features innovative architectural designs that were purpose-built to keep people safe in areas of Japan that are prone to flooding or tsunami. [In Focus: Russia's Economy Holds Up Despite Sanctions] As Russia's invasion in Ukraine drags into its second year, economies around the world have been upended. But Western sanctions targeting Russia's economy appear to have had less impact than expected. We look at how Moscow could be getting around the restrictions. [Global Trends: Craft Gin Joins Japan's Premium Drinks List] Yamanashi Prefecture, home to Mount Fuji, is inspiring a distiller of craft gin to use local grapes and other fruit. We explore how craft gin from Japan is looking to attract enthusiasts around the world.

The earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan's Tohoku region 12 years ago caused severe damage to its agriculture and fishing industries. This episode features some enthusiastic entrepreneurs who are working to revive the region through locally produced food and beverage businesses. [In Focus: Economic Concerns Will Test New Chinese Policymakers] The Chinese government is going through a major reshuffle as President Xi Jinping further consolidates his power. At the same time, the economy is under growing pressure. We look at some of the challenges facing Beijing. [Global Trends: The Growing Pet Oral Care Market] More pets are suffering from gum disease, with severe symptoms making it difficult for them to even eat. This has created a growing market for oral care products... as well as efforts to find the cause.

From an eyewear manufacturer's emergency whistle to survival foods made by a construction hardware supplier, this episode features Japanese companies that have stepped out of their areas of expertise to create disaster readiness products. [In Focus: World Wrestles to Assess US Banking Fiasco] Shockwaves from banking failures in the US are shaking financial institutions around the globe. There are growing worries about other firms and how far the damage will spread. We look at the impacts the crisis is having. [Global Trends: Redefining Green Energy] Electricity generated by plants and even changes in the air's moisture. Renewable power technologies are emerging that take the concept of green energy to a whole new level.

Many locals living in rural Japan are surprised to find that foreign tourists are beginning to choose their little country towns as travel destinations. This episode features entrepreneurs that are using the charm and beauty of Japan's countryside to provide new experiences to travelers. [In Focus: US Bank Failures Expose Risks in Financial Sector] The stunning collapse of US banks in recent weeks has prompted debate about how to prevent such failures. Much of the blame has been directed to what was thought of as a safe bet ... government bonds. [Global Trends: Conveyor Belt Sushi Turns a Corner] Visitors to Japan and locals alike have long flocked to conveyor belt sushi restaurants for a fun and filling dining experience. But these are rapidly disappearing and we look into reasons.

During major building projects, construction workers must often take on repetitive manual tasks as well as work in potentially dangerous environments. This episode features companies that have developed unique robot technology to not only improve efficiency but to increase safety at construction sites. [In Focus: Japan Looks to Overhaul Foreign Trainee Program] A Japanese training program for foreign nationals has long been criticized for its controversial way of bringing cheap labor into the country. We look at how the current system may finally be coming to an end. [Global Trends: Bottles in Short Supply as Sake Production Takes Off] Sales of Japanese sake have been booming. But there's a bottleneck. The shortage of bottles! Since the pandemic, manufacturers can't keep up with production. We see how the industry is adapting.

While the pandemic provided a boost in the shift from in-person purchasing to online shopping, a new type of sales method is catching on in Japan - mobile sales. This episode features companies that are going the extra mile by taking their products directly to where their customers are located with specially modified trucks. [In Focus: China's Economy Makes a Tentative Comeback] China's economy got off to a solid start in 2023 ... with first-quarter GDP numbers showing strength that surprised some. But concerns remain about a high unemployment rate and sluggish export growth. [Global Trends: Bringing British Education to Japan] The British are coming! UK schools are opening branches and affiliates in Japan as the country makes efforts to export its educational brand. But are parents willing to pay the high tuitions?

As Japan's super-aging society continues to grow, various initiatives have emerged to help seniors who want to work find employment. This episode features a unique platform designed to help elderly people find nearby employment and a support service for families that allows older women to put their domestic skills to use. [In Focus: Major Investor Keen on Japan] Legendary investor Warren Buffett is turning his interests to Japan. Analysts say tensions between global superpowers could boost Japan's economic position. We see what prompted Buffett to bet big on Japan. [Global Trends: AI Transforming Japan's Business World] ChatGPT is transforming the business world. In Japan, it is helping job seekers ... and allowing companies to supplement the knowledge of trained experts. We take a look at the latest developments in this quickly evolving field.

Whether it's discrimination during the hiring process or issues that arise after hiring, sexual minorities in Japan face a range of challenges when it comes to finding stable employment. This report features companies that are striving to even the playing field by offering people the chance to succeed regardless of their sexual orientation. [In Focus: Japan's Economy on Brink of Slipping from Third Largest] Japan once enjoyed a booming economy that was second only to the US. But it lost the number two spot to China over a decade ago, and now its economy is at risk of falling behind another country. [Global Trends: Age-Old Custom Gets an Upgrade] People in Japan have long given small change to shrines and temples as a custom to bring good fortune. But what happens to these casual offerings as digital money replaces cash? We take a look.

Established in 2022, the Tokyo Women's Orchestra was created to empower female musicians that have faced social hurdles that prevented them from pursuing a career in music. [In Focus: US-Led Economic Framework Inches Ahead] The US is leading a new economic partnership in the Indo-Pacific as it seeks an edge over China. But many developing nations in the region already see China as a major trading partner. We look at how the US-led framework may impact the global economy. [Global Trends: Indonesia's Soccer Fans Turn Eyes to Japan] Countries across Southeast Asia are falling in love with soccer. In Indonesia, fans and players alike admire Japan's pro league ... and collaborations between the countries are ensuring the future of soccer in Asia.

From adding nutrients to sea water to improve shellfish farming, to implementing modern technology to preserve coral reefs, this report features companies that are working to protect valuable marine resources. [In Focus: Foreign Investors Fuel Southeast Asia Property Boom] Wealthy overseas buyers are driving a property boom in Southeast Asia. And it's sending rent and housing prices soaring for locals in the region. We look at what's driving this up-and-coming market. [Global Trends: Japanese Sake Gets a British Spin] Japanese sake is going global. Breweries are popping up outside of Japan as the drink gets international appeal. One company is combining old brewing methods with new flavors to gain fans.

This episode features kimono-related businesses that are trying to recover from years of declining sales by finding new uses for the kimono materials. [In Focus: Japan Inc. Shareholders Push for Gender Equality] Company executives in Japan can expect some noise at the shareholders meeting this month as more investors demand change. We look at why a lack of diversity in top-level positions is likely to be a big topic. [Global Trends: Extending the Life of Everyday Items] Extending the lifespan of everyday items can make a big difference in achieving sustainability. We look at efforts by makers of socks and towels to offer products that will go the distance.

With an increase in sales to both local collectors and inbound tourists, capsule toys are seeing a surge in popularity in Japan. Ranging from popular anime and comic characters to quirky collectables, the broad variety of options and prices available help appeal to a variety of consumers. This episode features Japanese businesses that are capitalizing on these trending tiny toys. [In Focus: Unused Office Space Poses Risks to US Banks] As working from home became normal in the United States, demand for office space dropped off. We explore how the slowdown in commercial real estate is raising the risks to the financial sector. [Global Trends: More US Schools Moving to 4-Day Week] The United States is facing a critical shortage of teachers. That's prompting a movement to shorten the school week to four days to attract teachers by reducing working days. We take a look at how this is working out.

This episode features female entrepreneurs who are looking to promote their local economies as well as create more sustainable fashion options by creating fruit-based clothing. [In Focus: Japan's Labor Shortage Spurs Wage Increases] Firms in Japan are struggling to secure staff amid a labor shortage. And this is pushing some companies to raise prices so they can offer workers higher pay. We look at what it means for the country as it tries to achieve sustainable economic growth. [Global Trends: Pink Money Brings Green Prospects] The LGBTQ community is gaining growing economic clout, and businesses are popping up that cater to its needs. We look at two companies that have taken inclusivity beyond a slogan to a business model.

Featuring mild nutrient-packed chocolate bars and a UV-blocking parasol, this week's episode introduces companies that have created specialty products designed for people with specific needs that ended up becoming popular with a much larger consumer base. [In Focus: US-China Semiconductor Rift Remains] US finance chief Janet Yellen's trip to Beijing were the first high level economic talks between the US and China under the Biden administration. We look at what this high-stake visit could mean to their troubled relationship. [Global Trends: Welcoming More Women to Tech Industries] Women have long been under-represented in tech. We see how more women leading research and development improves products and creates new opportunities.

This episode shows how creativity and ingenuity are helping businesses to turn problematic materials into new and useful products. [In Focus: Japan Gets a Record Pay Hike, But Is It Enough?] Japan is set to see its minimum wage rise by a record pace this year as the cost of living increases. But the amount is still the lowest among advanced nations, showing that there's still work to be done. [Global Trends: Printed Food Gives Seniors An Appetite for the Future] 3D printed food may not replace traditional meals, but new developments in the technology are showing its immense potential. One researcher is using it to create food for seniors that's more appetizing and tailored to their needs.

This episode features new developments in fitness training such as running shoes with performance-enhancing sensors and an AI-driven fitness app that helps personal trainers provide high-level instruction to their clients. [In Focus: Climate Change Threatens Shipping on World's Waterways] Wildfires, heat waves, drought ... extreme weather is having devastating consequences on Earth and economies around the world. We look at how shrinking water levels could stifle global trade. [Global Trends: Japan's Trading Card Boom a Winning Hand for Business] Trading cards are more than just fun and games in Japan. The hobby is becoming a booming business and companies are taking note, rolling out new ways of capitalizing on the trend.

Technology isn't just changing how we shop, it's changing how goods are stored and delivered. This episode shows how understaffed distribution warehouses can now call upon robots to assist in retrieving orders and features a new type of automated warehouse that has eliminated the need for aisles between shelves in order to maximize storage capacity. [In Focus: Strike Highlights Tough Times for Department Stores] Workers at a major Japanese department store in Tokyo went on strike as the business was sold to a US investment fund. We look at what the worsening environment for department stores could mean for Japan's economy. [Global Trends: Brazil Explores Possibilities of Bioethanol] The world is grappling with a surge in oil prices, causing some to look again at alternative fuels. Brazil has been developing the use of bioethanol. Could this be a way to help alleviate the energy crisis? We take a closer look.

From sports prosthetics to video game controller systems, this episode features companies creating innovative new products designed to make recreational activities accessible to as many people as possible. [In Focus: China's Chip Breakthrough Reignites Tech Battle] US attempts to curtail China's technological development appear to be falling short. The latest smartphone release from a major Chinese firm shows that the battle for tech dominance may be heating up. [Global Trends: Southeast Asia Embraces "Buy Now, Pay Later"] Buy Now Pay Later financing is taking Southeast Asia by storm. It's being used for purchases big and small, creating new spending power for shoppers in the region, but also new risks.

This episode shows how companies in Japan's seafood industry are adapting their business models to overcome challenges and increase sales.

Featuring a pain reducing medical device and ground-breaking research, this episode highlights the efforts of two men whose drive and dedication to research and development resulted in noteworthy commercial successes.

It's estimated that there are currently about ten million vacant homes in Japan and that number is expected to grow even further. This episode features businesses that are working to fill empty properties with people in need of affordable housing or businesses that can provide a boost to local communities.

From a machine-washable thread that allows for daily wear to additives for skin care and even food products, this episode focuses on new innovations that are changing the way silk is being produced and used.

This episode features companies that are providing Japanese farmers with new ways to increase sales.

Thanks to a virtual stadium and a new application designed for amateur teams, sports fans can now provide moral and financial support to their favorite teams no matter where they are.

As small towns with shrinking populations are looking for ways to attract tourists, many are hoping that unique tour services can help them to attract visitors from abroad as well as from within Japan.

This episode examines ways Japanese companies are looking to overcome some of the main issues that are preventing hydrogen from catching on as a clean source of energy.

This episode features two companies that are turning worthless waste into useful products.