Japanese Business Glossary

マイナンバー制度 (My Number seido) refers to the My Number System in Japan. This system, also known as the Social Security and Tax Number System, was introduced in 2015 to streamline various administrative processes by assigning a unique 12-digit identification number to each resident in Japan, including both Japanese citizens and foreign residents.

The My Number system serves multiple purposes, including accurate and efficient tax collection, facilitating the administration of social security programs such as pensions, health insurance, and welfare services, and aiding in the distribution of aid and services during natural disasters by quickly identifying and verifying affected individuals.

Each resident receives a My Number card, which contains their unique number, name, address, and other personal information. This card can be used for identity verification in various official and administrative procedures, such as opening bank accounts, applying for government services, and filing tax returns.

The My Number system aims to improve administrative efficiency, reduce fraud, and enhance the convenience of accessing government services. However, it also raises concerns about privacy and data security, leading to stringent regulations and safeguards to protect personal information.

公益社団法人 (koeki shadan hojin) refers to a Public Interest Incorporated Association in Japan. This type of legal entity is a nonprofit organization that operates for the public good, engaging in activities that benefit society as a whole. Examples include organizations involved in education, social welfare, culture, and environmental protection.

To obtain this status, an organization must meet certain criteria and receive approval from the relevant government authorities, typically the Cabinet Office or a local government. The organization must demonstrate that its activities serve the public interest and that it is managed in a transparent and accountable manner.

公益社団法人 enjoys certain benefits, such as eligibility for tax exemptions and deductions, which can enhance its ability to raise funds and carry out its mission. The designation also conveys a level of trust and credibility, encouraging public and private support for the organization's activities.

源泉 (gensen) refers to the source or origin of something in Japanese. In a financial and tax context, it often refers to 源泉徴収 (gensen choshū), which means withholding tax. This is the process by which an employer or payer deducts a certain amount of tax from an employee's salary or a recipient's payment before it is paid to them, and then remits this tax directly to the tax authorities.

For example, in the context of employment, employers are required to withhold income tax from employees' salaries and pay this tax to the government on their behalf. This ensures that taxes are collected at the source of income, simplifying tax compliance for individuals and ensuring that the government receives tax revenue promptly.

Gensen can also be used more generally to refer to the source or origin of any resource, such as water from a spring or the origin of a particular piece of information.

還付 (kanpu) refers to a tax refund in Japan. This occurs when a taxpayer has paid more in taxes than they owe for a given tax period. The excess amount is returned, or refunded, to the taxpayer by the tax authorities.

A tax refund can result from various situations, such as overpayment of estimated taxes, excess withholding of income tax by an employer, or eligibility for tax credits and deductions that reduce the overall tax liability.

To receive a tax refund in Japan, taxpayers typically need to file a tax return and claim the refund, providing the necessary documentation and calculations to support their claim. The tax authorities will review the return and, if approved, issue the refund. Tax refunds help ensure that taxpayers do not overpay and receive back any excess amounts they have contributed.

学校法人 (gakko hojin) refers to an educational corporation in Japan. This type of legal entity is specifically established to operate educational institutions such as schools, colleges, and universities.

Gakko hojin are nonprofit organizations that are granted special status to focus on educational activities. They are regulated by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT) to ensure they meet certain standards and provide quality education.

The purpose of educational corporations is to manage and support the operation of educational institutions, including the administration, financing, and overall governance. These corporations can own property, enter into contracts, and perform other activities necessary to maintain and develop the educational institutions under their management.

Educational corporation status helps ensure that educational institutions are run with a focus on educational objectives rather than profit, contributing to the public good by providing accessible and high-quality education.

外交員 (gaikoin) refers to an outside sales representative or field salesperson in Japan. These individuals are responsible for visiting potential and existing customers to promote and sell a company's products or services. Unlike office-based sales staff, gaikoin work primarily outside the company's premises, often traveling to meet clients in person.

The role of a gaikoin typically involves building and maintaining customer relationships, identifying sales opportunities, conducting product demonstrations, negotiating contracts, and closing sales. They play a crucial role in expanding a company's customer base and driving revenue growth.

Being an outside sales representative in Japan requires strong communication and interpersonal skills, as well as a thorough understanding of the products or services being sold. It also demands a high level of self-motivation and the ability to work independently.