Japanese Business Glossary

売電 (baiden) refers to the sale of electricity in Japan. This concept often involves individuals, businesses, or organizations generating electricity, typically through renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power, and then selling the excess electricity they produce to utility companies or other consumers.

The practice of baiden has gained popularity due to the Japanese government's initiatives to promote renewable energy and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Through systems like the Feed-in Tariff (FIT), the government guarantees a fixed purchase price for electricity generated from renewable sources, encouraging investment in solar panels, wind turbines, and other renewable energy technologies.

For more detailed information on the regulations and procedures for baiden, you can refer to resources such as the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) website or specific renewable energy guidelines.

The term 代理人 (dairinin) in Japanese means "representative" or "agent." In a business context, a 代理人 is someone who has been authorized to act on behalf of another person or entity. This authorization can involve making decisions, signing documents, or performing various tasks as if they were the principal party.

In company incorporation or legal matters, a dairinin might be appointed to handle procedures such as submitting applications, representing the company in official matters, or managing business operations in the absence of the primary owner or manager.

帰属 (kizoku) in Japanese means "attribution" or "affiliation." It refers to the concept of belonging or being assigned to a particular entity, group, or category. In a business context, kizoku can be used in various scenarios such as taxation, where it can refer to the attribution of income or expenses to a specific period or entity. In intellectual property, it denotes the attribution of rights or ownership of creations, inventions, or trademarks. In an organizational context, it may refer to an employee’s affiliation with a particular department or division within a company. Understanding the context in which kizoku is used is essential for accurately interpreting its meaning.

発注請書 (hacchu keisho) is a document used in Japanese business transactions, translating to "purchase order acceptance" in English. This document serves as a formal acknowledgment from the supplier or vendor that they have received and accepted the purchase order issued by the buyer.

The hacchu keisho typically includes information such as the purchase order number, supplier's details, buyer's details, description of goods or services ordered, quantity and price, delivery date and terms, payment terms, and any other specific terms and conditions related to the order. By issuing a hacchu keisho, the supplier confirms their commitment to deliver the specified goods or services under the agreed terms. This ensures clarity and mutual agreement between the buyer and the supplier, reducing the risk of misunderstandings and disputes.

小売り (kouri) translates to "retail" in English.

Retail refers to the sale of goods and services directly to consumers. It involves the final step of the distribution process where businesses sell products in small quantities to the end-user for personal or household consumption. Retail can be conducted through various channels, including physical stores, online platforms, and catalog sales.

In Japan, retail businesses range from small independent shops to large chain stores and department stores, offering a diverse range of products such as clothing, electronics, food, and more. Retail is a significant part of the economy, reflecting consumer demand and trends.

代表社員 (daihyo shain) translates to representative partner or representative member in English. In the context of Japanese corporate structures, it refers to the individual or individuals who have the authority to act on behalf of the company, similar to a company representative or managing partner in other jurisdictions.

The daihyo shain has the legal authority to bind the company in contracts, legal matters, and other significant business activities. This term is often used in the context of partnerships, particularly in a 合同会社 (Godo Gaisha, or LLC) or 合名会社 (Gomei Gaisha, or General Partnership). The daihyo shain bears significant responsibility and is often liable for the company's actions, particularly in a 合名会社 where partners have unlimited liability.

The daihyo shain is appointed according to the company’s internal rules or partnership agreement and must be registered with the Legal Affairs Bureau in Japan.