In recent years, Japan’s economic has shifted dramatically. The Nikkei 225 index has hit record highs, billionaires and global funds alike are once again investing in Japanese companies, and high-quality exports are at historic levels. But with this new and exciting era of economic growth comes the need for various effort, including fast evolving digital infrastructure as well as the workforce necessary to keep Japan’s world-class industries moving.

Prime Minister Kishida’s people- and growth-centric “New Form of Capitalism” policy has become a key driver in nurturing human resources for this new economic reality that is unfolding in Japan. One where women are playing an increasingly important role in the workforce, where younger graduates are motivated to make their mark in a vibrant startup ecosystem, and where people are more confident with pursing career changes. Both public and private sectors in Japan are also pressing ahead with the digital transformation needed to take on societal challenges while maintaining its position as an economic leader.

While Japan undergoes structural changes and renewed economic growth, questions remain about how the nation will continue to ensure its competitive edge for the future. What are the ways in which the government is realizing its “people-first” human resource policies even in the face of demographic headwinds? Also, how are digital and green technologies being implemented at all levels of civil society and private businesses? Moreover, what are the new factors that make Japan one of the region’s most compelling choices for investment and industrial cooperation?