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Geopolitics Drives Japan’s Economy
Article

Geopolitics Drives Japan’s Economy

GIS, 2017


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8

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  • Analytical
  • Overview
  • Hot Topic

Recommendation

The confluence of regional geopolitics and disadvantageous demographics has forced Japan’s hand, compelling it to forge alliances abroad to fortify its economic preeminence in the face of an increasingly powerful China. This accessible overview by Asian expert Urs Schoettli explains why Japan – long an insular society – must now look outward to strengthen its small and medium-sized firms. getAbstract suggests this solid primer on regional issues to students of geopolitics and macroeconomics.

Summary

Unfavorable demographics are upending Japan’s economy: Its population could decrease by one-third by the year 2050, obliging Japanese companies to search abroad for talent and markets. China’s economic ascent poses another threat, as it projects its geopolitical clout across Asia through its Belt and Road Initiative and its claims to the Senkaku/Diaoyu islands, currently in Japanese hands. These events are not lost on Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who has allied with his Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi, in border clashes between China and India. China and Japan vary in their abilities to secure ...

About the Author

Urs Schoettli is a subject matter expert with Geopolitical Intelligence Services.


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