Japan’s Hidden Champions in the spotlight

Japanese manufacturing’s global reputation for monozukuri (craftsmanship) and high-quality has hinged on corporate giants such as Sony, Toyota, Panasonic and Honda. But the true strength of Japanese industry lies largely with the smaller, lesser-known companies that provide high-quality products, parts and machinery as B2B manufacturers.

Today, these so-called “Hidden Champions” have put themselves at the forefront of the latest global shifts, from 5G/6G internet, Industry 4.0 technologies and electric vehicles (EVs), to renewable energies, large-scale industrial waste reduction and the path towards carbon neutrality.

Thanks to these companies, Japan will lead the way in many of these aspects that will define the first half of the 21st century, with their efforts always underpinned by a desire to contribute to society and the