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The Impact of Brexit on Japan and Its Reactions
In 2016, the UK held a national referendum on leaving the EU, and chose to leave. On December 31, 2020, the UK officially left the EU, which has had various global impacts.
Firstly, there are various impacts on the UK itself. Exiting the EU changes the relationship between the UK and EU member states, and could also cause economic fluctuations. Additionally, free movement and access to the EU market provided by the EU may be lost, which could greatly affect the UK’s domestic economy.
On the other hand, Brexit is also expected to have various impacts on Japan. If Japanese companies want to expand their businesses in the UK market, they may face new challenges as the UK leaves the regulatory framework of the EU. Furthermore, changes in trade relations with the UK may increase trade barriers and costs for Japanese companies, requiring attention.
In Japan, there are both positive and negative opinions towards Brexit. Some people support the UK’s sovereignty and transition to free trade. However, others believe it is important to maintain solidarity with the EU and are disappointed with the UK’s decision.
Why there are negative opinions about Brexit in Japan
It has been revealed that there are various opinions about the UK’s Brexit in Japan. However, why are there negative opinions about Brexit in Japan? Here are the reasons:
Impact on Japanese companies The UK is an important market for Japanese companies, and many of them do business through trade with the EU, so the impact of the UK’s Brexit is considered to be significant. Japanese companies are concerned that the change in trade relations with the UK could increase business risks.
Importance of solidarity with the EU Japan is one of the countries that values solidarity with the EU. Trade and investment with the EU are active, and the EU is an important partner for Japan. Therefore, many people believe that it is important for Japan to strengthen its relationship with the EU.
Diplomatic impact The UK is also a strategic partner for Japan. Therefore, there are concerns that Brexit could worsen Japan’s relationship with the UK. In addition, there is a possibility that the world situation could become unstable due to the weakening of the EU, which could also have a negative impact on Japan.
Overall, Brexit is a matter of global interest and is expected to have a significant impact on Japan. It will be important to pay attention to how the relationship between the UK and Japan will change in the future.
Japanese Comment
“I think that the EU’s departure will have a major impact on Japanese companies. Especially for Japanese car manufacturers, as the UK is a very important market, I am very worried.” (Male in his 40s, working for an automobile-related company)
“I think that solidarity with the EU is extremely important. Economically and diplomatically, the EU is an important partner for Japan. If the UK leaves the EU, the impact on the entire EU may be significant and Japan may also be affected.” (Female in her 30s, working for an international organization)
“The UK’s departure from the EU could have a significant impact on the future world situation. In particular, with the deteriorating relationship between the United States and China, if the EU weakens, Japan’s diplomatic position will become increasingly difficult.” (Male in his 50s, university professor)
“If the EU departure really happens, it is certain that the business environment for Japanese companies will change significantly. Limitations on trade with the UK could result in missed business opportunities.” (Female in her 20s, working for a trading company)
“There is a possibility that the EU’s departure will also have a significant impact on the Japanese economy. If Japanese companies lose their competitiveness in the EU market, it is expected to have a negative impact on the entire Japanese economy.” (Male in his 50s, economic commentator)
“The UK’s departure from the EU raises concerns about changes in the EU’s position and role. As a result, Japan’s diplomatic strategy may have to be changed.” (Female in her 30s, diplomat)
“The departure of the EU may also affect local employment for Japanese companies. Although many Japanese companies have established a presence in the UK, changes in employment regulations may lead to changes in employee treatment and working conditions.” (Male in his 40s, HR consultant)
“I believe that strengthening solidarity with the EU will lead to stability in the world situation. The UK’s departure from the EU may have a negative impact on Japan.” (Male in his 40s, manager)
“The fact is that the UK’s departure from the EU increases risks for Japanese companies. However, I also think that maintaining a relationship with the UK is important.” (Female in her 30s, clerical worker)
“I think that Japanese companies will inevitably be affected by the UK’s departure from the EU. Going forward, it will be necessary to also focus on markets outside the EU.” (Male in his 50s, self-employed)
“Japan places importance on solidarity with the EU, but its relationship with Asia is also important. It is fully conceivable that the UK’s departure from the EU will also affect Japan’s relationship with Asia.” (Female in her 20s, student)
“The UK’s departure from the EU could also have a significant impact on the Japanese economy. It is inevitable that the international situation will become unstable. I hope that the government will take solid measures.” (Male in his 60s, company employee)