Japanese Business Glossary

適格請求書発行事業者番号 (tekikaku seikyūsho hakko jigyosha bango) refers to the Qualified Invoice Issuer Number in Japan. This number is assigned to businesses that are registered to issue qualified invoices under the new Japanese consumption tax invoice system, also known as the Qualified Invoice System or インボイス制度.

Starting from October 1, 2023, Japan implemented this system to ensure proper documentation and transparency in transactions subject to consumption tax. Businesses that issue qualified invoices must register and receive this number. The invoices they issue must include specific details, such as the issuer's Qualified Invoice Issuer Number, to allow the purchaser to claim input tax credits accurately.

The system aims to improve the accuracy of tax reporting and compliance by providing clear and standardized documentation for taxable transactions. This helps businesses correctly calculate and report their consumption tax obligations.

マイナ保険証 (maina hokensho) refers the integration of the national health insurance card with the My Number Card, a personal identification card introduced as part of the My Number system (Social Security and Tax Number System in Japan).

The integration allows individuals to use their My Number Card as their health insurance card when visiting medical institutions. This integration aims to streamline administrative processes, reduce paperwork, and improve the efficiency of medical services.

To use the My Number Card as a health insurance card, individuals must register their health insurance information with the My Number Card. Once registered, they can present the card at hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies to verify their health insurance coverage, simplifying the process of accessing healthcare services. This system also facilitates the sharing of medical information among healthcare providers, enhancing the quality of care.

事業 (jigyo) refers to a business, enterprise, or project in Japan. It encompasses any organized activity conducted with the aim of generating revenue, providing services, or producing goods. The term can apply to a wide range of activities, from small-scale individual ventures to large corporations and government projects.

In a business context, jigyo can include various aspects such as planning, production, marketing, sales, and management. It implies a structured approach to achieving specific goals and often involves strategic planning, resource allocation, and operational management.

For example, a company might engage in multiple business activities, each representing a different line of business or area of operation, such as manufacturing, retail, or technology services. The success of a business activity depends on effective management, market demand, and the ability to adapt to changing conditions.

記帳 (kicho) refers to bookkeeping in Japan. This process involves recording financial transactions and maintaining accurate financial records for a business or individual. Bookkeeping is a fundamental aspect of accounting and financial management, ensuring that all monetary transactions are systematically documented and organized.

The tasks involved in kicho include recording income and expenses, tracking assets and liabilities, and maintaining ledgers and journals. This practice helps businesses monitor their financial health, prepare financial statements, and comply with tax regulations.

Accurate bookkeeping is essential for effective financial management, enabling businesses to make informed decisions, plan for the future, and ensure transparency in their financial dealings. It also plays a crucial role in audit processes and financial reporting.

更改 (kokai) refers to renewal, revision, or amendment in Japan. This term is commonly used in various contexts to indicate changes or updates to existing agreements, contracts, policies, or documents.

In a business or legal context, kokai might involve renewing a lease, revising contract terms, or amending bylaws. It signifies an official change or update that is recognized and recorded to ensure all parties are aware of the new terms or conditions.

The process of kokai ensures that agreements remain current and relevant, reflecting any new circumstances or mutual agreements between the involved parties.

利益供与 (rieki kyoyo) refers to the provision of benefits or advantages in Japan. This term is often used in legal and business contexts to describe the act of giving financial or other types of benefits to another party, usually with the expectation of receiving some form of favor or advantage in return.

In legal terms, rieki kyoyo can be associated with unethical or illegal activities such as bribery or corruption, where benefits are provided to influence the actions or decisions of the recipient. It can involve money, gifts, services, or any other form of benefit that is intended to gain favor or influence.

Understanding and addressing rieki kyoyo is important for maintaining ethical standards and compliance with laws and regulations, especially in business and government operations.