Japanese Business Glossary

引当 (hikate) refers to provisions or reserves in accounting. These are amounts set aside from a company's profits to cover future liabilities, expenses, or losses.

In Japanese accounting, provisions ensure that financial statements reflect a more accurate picture of the company's financial health. Common examples include provisions for bad debts, warranty liabilities, or potential legal expenses.

By setting aside these amounts, companies can better manage risks and uncertainties, ensuring they are prepared for future financial obligations. This practice aligns with the conservative approach in accounting, which emphasizes caution and prudence in financial reporting.

住民税非課税 (juminzei hikazei) refers to the exemption from paying resident tax in Japan. Resident tax (住民税, juminzei) is a local tax levied by municipalities on residents. There are specific criteria that determine whether an individual qualifies for this exemption.

First, individuals with annual incomes below a certain threshold are exempt. The threshold varies depending on the municipality and the number of dependents.

取次 (toritsugi) is a Japanese term that generally means "intermediary" or "agent." It is often used in business contexts to refer to an entity or person who acts as a go-between for transactions or communication between two parties.

In the publishing industry, for example, a toritsugi might refer to a book distributor who intermediates between publishers and retailers. In general business dealings, a toritsugi might handle the coordination and facilitation of sales, orders, and communication on behalf of a company.

The term 事業具体例 (jigyo gutai rei) translates to "business examples" or "specific examples of businesses." It refers to specific instances or types of businesses that illustrate a particular industry, business model, or entrepreneurial activity.

In the context of starting a business in Japan, examples include opening a retail store selling clothing, accessories, or specialty items. Another example is establishing a restaurant or café, such as a sushi restaurant, ramen shop, or coffeehouse. Additionally, launching a tech startup focused on developing software, apps, or technological solutions is a common business example. Offering consulting services in areas like finance, marketing, or management also represents a specific business type. Starting an e-commerce business to sell products domestically or internationally is another example. Engaging in the import/export business by trading goods between Japan and other countries is also a common business example.

These examples show the variety of business opportunities available. Each type of business has specific requirements, regulations, and market conditions to consider when starting up in Japan.

定期保険 (teiki hoken) is a type of term life insurance in Japan. This insurance provides coverage for a specified period, typically ranging from 10 to 30 years. If the insured individual passes away during this term, the beneficiaries receive a death benefit. However, if the policyholder outlives the term, the coverage ends and no benefit is paid out.

Term life insurance like teiki hoken is often chosen for its affordability compared to whole life insurance. It is suitable for those looking to cover specific financial obligations, such as a mortgage or children's education, during the insured period.

踏まえて (fumaete) is a Japanese term that means "based on" or "taking into account." It is often used to indicate that a decision, action, or statement is being made considering certain factors or information.

For example, if you are making a business decision, you might say:

市場調査の結果を踏まえて、新製品を開発します。
Shijo chosa no kekka o fumaete, shin seihin o kaihatsu shimasu. Based on the market research results, we will develop a new product.

In this context, fumaete indicates that the development of the new product is being done with consideration of the market research results.