The first comprehensive study of post-war Japanese transnational corporations in Australia, this book, first published in 1990, gives valuable insights into the particular characteristics of Japanese overseas investment. It looks at how, where and why Japanese corporations have set up their business activities in Australia, focusing on the economic, political and geographic factors shaping their operations. It presents case studies of Japanese trading companies, manufacturing companies, banks, and financial institutions. As well as highlighting the essential differences that separate Japanese transnational companies from those of the UK and the USA, the study gives new theoretical insights into the complex behaviour of Japanese corporations in their host countries.

International in perspective, this volume provides insights into the important problem of how to transfer Japanese practice to Western countries. It also examines key aspects of Japanese multinationals and discusses how they are developing their global strategies and how they are managing their local workforces. Topics covered include relations with suppliers, governments and competitors, leadership patterns and business philosophy. The impact of Japanese multinationals on the local economies of host countries is a particular focus. The dynamics of strategic alliances, technology transfers and research and development centres are also discussed.

Since the bursting of Japan’s bubble economy, from 1990 onwards, its multinational companies (MNCs) have faced new competitive challenges, and questions about the management practices on which they had built their initial success in global markets. Japanese engagement in the international economy has undergone a number of phases. Historically, Japanese MNCs learnt from foreign companies, frequently through strategic alliances. After the post-war ‘economic miracle’, Japanese manufacturers in particular converted themselves into MNCs, transferred their home-grown capabilities to overseas subsidiaries, and made an impact on the world economy. But the period after 1990 marked declining Japanese competitiveness, and asked questions about the ability of Japanese MNCs to be more responsive and global in their strategies, organization, and capabilities. It has been argued that the established management practices of Japanese MNCs inhibited adaptation to recent demands of global competition. This volume presents new case evidence on how Japanese MNCs have responded to the new challenges of the global market place, and it provides examples of how they have transformed strategies and competitive capabilities. This book was originally published as a special issue of Asia Pacific Business Review.

The first comprehensive study of post-war Japanese transnational corporations in Australia, this book, first published in 1990, gives valuable insights into the particular characteristics of Japanese overseas investment. It looks at how, where and why Japanese corporations have set up their business activities in Australia, focusing on the economic, political and geographic factors shaping their operations. It presents case studies of Japanese trading companies, manufacturing companies, banks, and financial institutions. As well as highlighting the essential differences that separate Japanese transnational companies from those of the UK and the USA, the study gives new theoretical insights into the complex behaviour of Japanese corporations in their host countries.

The Encyclopedia of Japanese Business and Management is the definitive reference source for the exploration of Japanese business and management. Reflecting the multidisciplinary nature of this field, the Encyclopedia consolidates and contextualises the leading research and knowledge about the Japanese business system and Japanese management thought and practice. It will be welcomed by scholar and student alike as an essential resource for teaching, an invaluable companion to independent study, and a solid starting point for wider exploration.