Recent Events
QJCCI 'Shinnenkai' New Year Networking - February 27, Brisbane
The QJCCI welcomed the Year of the Snake at a sold-out 'shinnenkai' networking event, generously hosted by QJCCI Premium Member, Hall Chadwick Qld at its Brisbane head office.
Welcoming guests, QJCCI President Peter Koppman noted the popularity of the Shinnenkai function among the Queensland-Japan business community, with the February 27 event sold out in record time.
"It is fantastic to see such a large turnout at tonight's event, thanks to our QJCCI Members and guests, with strong support from the Japanese Consulate, including newly appointed Consul General, Mr ISHIKAWA Katsutoshi," he said.
"With world events such as Expo 2025 Osaka being held in Japan this year, there's never been a better time to engage with Japan and the Chamber to build stronger trade and investment ties with our major trading partner."
Hall Chadwick Qld Director, Cameron Field, also thanked guests for their attendance, noting that Queensland-Japan relations continued to strengthen across various industries including agriculture, education, tourism, mining and energy.
Among these, Japanese trading house Idemitsu recently invested $75 million in Queensland vanadium company Vecco, while ENEOS announced in December a $200 million green hydrogen investment at Bulwer Island.
Japan Consul-General Mr ISHIKAWA then officially opened the event, noting his home prefecture of Shizuoka was famous for its motoring heritage as the founding location of Japanese automakers Honda, Suzuki and Yamaha.
He expressed confidence Queensland-Japan ties would flourish in the Year of the Snake, building upon Queensland's involvement in events such as Expo 2025 Osaka, along with growing trade and investment ties across a range of fields.
Japan was Queensland’s second-largest export market in the year to September 2024, accounting for $16.9 billion of Queensland exports including coal, liquefied natural gas and beef, while 158,000 Japanese visited Queensland in the year to June 2024.
Following the speeches, the networking event was launched by QJCCI Management Committee member, Anthony Fensom, who will lead the Chamber's Expo 2025 Osaka tour in April 2025.
Supporting the event, Brisbane's Adventure Day Trips contributed a special door prize of a chauffeur-driven tour, while the delicious offerings of Houbi Ichigo were a standout for attendees.
The Chamber again thanks Hall Chadwick Qld for its superb hospitality, generously hosting approximately 100 guests at its Brisbane head office.
QJCCI 'Bonenkai' Year-End Networking - December 5, Brisbane
The QJCCI celebrated another successful year in Queensland-Japan ties at its 'bonenkai' year-end networking, held on December 5.
Hosted by QJCCI Premium Member, Stamford Plaza Brisbane at its superb Brisbane riverside venue, the event attracted a strong turnout from across the Queensland-Japan business community.
The guest of honour was newly appointed Consul-General of Japan in Brisbane, Mr ISHIKAWA Katsutoshi, who took up his new post in Brisbane in December 2024. Born in Shizuoka Prefecture and a graduate of engineering from Chiba University, Mr ISHIKAWA has had a distinguished career in Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including posts in Europe, Saudi Arabia and most recently in nuclear non-proliferation.
Mr ISHIKAWA highlighted Japan's long relationship with Queensland, with its first diplomatic mission in Australia established in Townsville in 1896. He said the relationship was continuing to strengthen across economic, cultural and social fields, including new areas such as green hydrogen, with Queensland responsible for much of the agricultural and energy resources that drive Asia’s second-largest economy.
QJCCI Vice President Alexander Samson noted Japan was Queensland’s second-largest export market in the year to September 2024, accounting for $16.9 billion of Queensland exports including coal, liquefied natural gas and beef, while 158,000 Japanese visited Queensland in the year to June 2024.
"Queensland's relationship with Japan goes from strength to strength, with the current Queensland government trade mission to Japan demonstrating the importance of this relationship to our state," Mr Samson said.
The QJCCI thanks Mr ISHIKAWA and the Consulate-General of Japan, Brisbane for supporting the event and Stamford Plaza Brisbane for the excellent hospitality.
Photos from the event are available via this link.
QJCCI Gold Coast Networking - November 20, Merrimac
The QJCCI returned to the Gold Coast on November 20 with another fantastic evening of networking, kindly hosted by QJCCI Premium Member, Chateraise Lakelands Golf Club, at its superb Merrimac venue.
Held in conjunction with JCCI Gold Coast, the Japan Community of Queensland, Japanese Society of Gold Coast and Japan Tourism Gold Coast, the event celebrated the thriving Japanese community and its strong relationship with the Gold Coast, Australia's sixth largest city and fastest growing economy.
A performance by 'taiko' drummers added colour to an event that literally went off with a bang, as the audience marked the year-end and looked ahead to 2025, Japan's Year of the Snake.
The QJCCI looks forward to returning to the Gold Coast again soon!
QJCCI Annual General Meeting - November 11, Brisbane
The QJCCI marked another positive year for Queensland-Japan relations at the Chamber's Annual General Meeting, generously hosted by QJCCI Premium Member, Hall Chadwick Qld, at its Brisbane office.
The November 11 event also marked the retirement from the QJCCI leadership of Mr Chris Whitecross, who led the Chamber to achieve significant growth during his time as QJCCI President.
The QJCCI thanks Chris for his invaluable contribution - a very big 'otsukaresama' from the rest of the Management Committee!
Fortunately, Chris will be staying on the Committee to lend his experience to the new leadership team.
Elected at the AGM was the new Management Committee for 2024/25, comprising:
* President: Mr Peter Koppman, Senior Adviser (a/g) - Investment Strategy, Insights & Performance, Austrade
* Vice Presidents: Ms Nussara Smith, International Trade Advisor; Mr Alexander Samson, Partner, DLA Piper
* Secretary: Mr Julio Santana, Manager, JFE Shoji
* Treasurer: Mr Cameron Field, Director, Hall Chadwick Qld
* Executive Members: Mr Chris Whitecross, Managing Director, Arrowdynamics; Mr Anthony Fensom, Managing Director, Fensom Advisory; Ms Yukari Ando, Director, Day to Day Investment; Mr Rob Whiddon, International Trade Advisor; Mr Darran Gould, Global Engagement Advisor, Austrade; Mr Takeshi Takada, Co-Founder and Executive Producer, alt.vfx; Mr Martin Spann, Finance Advisory; Ms Julie Yamamoto, Director, 2K16 Consulting
The QJCCI also thanked Mr GOMAKUBO Junji, Consul-General of Japan in Brisbane, who completed his term of office in Brisbane. Mr GOMAKUBO made an enormous contribution to the Queensland-Japan relationship during his time in Brisbane, also being a strong supporter of the Chamber, and the QJCCI is extremely grateful for his efforts.
Photos from the event are available via this link.
QJCCI Economic Outlook - October 23, Brisbane
Recession fears in the United States, rising interest rates in Japan and slowing growth in Australia and China together with global geopolitical tensions and wars are making for a challenging economic environment. How can businesses position themselves to ride out the downturn and emerge in a stronger position for the year ahead?
On October 23, the QJCCI invited the University of Southern Queensland's Professor Fabrizio Carmignani to answer these questions and more, at an event kindly hosted by QJCCI Premium Member, Hall Chadwick Qld at its Brisbane head office.
The QJCCI Member-only event attracted a high turnout of Members and guests, including VIP guest, Cr Peter Flannery, Mayor, City of Moreton Bay.
Amid concerns over inflation and interest rates, geopolitical conflict and the general economic outlook, Professor Carmignani said global economic growth remained "relatively stable" at just over 3 per cent, a level it is expected to maintain in 2025.
"Positive momentum is expected to come from further easing of monetary policies, given generally favourable inflation dynamics, which will increase households' spending power," he said.
"On the other hand, labour markets are cooling, creating a possible downside risk, while persistent geopolitical instability may have significant adverse effects on the global economic outlook."
The professor noted that forward indicators of global activity are pointing in the "right" direction, such as global trade volumes rising by 6.5 per cent in the second quarter of 2024 compared to the first quarter.
He said the OECD projected global "core" inflation in the G20 would drop from 4.2 per cent in 2023 to 2.7 per cent this year and 2.1 per cent in 2025, with Japan seeing inflation decline to below 2 per cent this year and next. Australia, however, is seen posting a 3.6 per cent rise in prices in 2024, dropping to 2.6 per cent next year.
Nevertheless, GDP growth in the world's two biggest economies is expected to decline in 2025. The United States is expected to see GDP growth fall from an estimated 2.6 per cent in 2024 to 1.6 per cent in 2025, with an "inverted" yield curve pointing to a potential recession. China's economy has been hit by weakness in the property sector, with its GDP growth expected to dip below 5 per cent this year and next.
For Japan, Asia's second-largest economy, the OECD, International Monetary Fund and Bank of Japan all see GDP growth rising by around 1 per cent in 2025, helped by wages growth and increased business investment.
In Australia though, the professor said inflation appeared to be "stickier" than elsewhere, however a soft GDP outlook could prompt an interest rate cut by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA), potentially even before Christmas.
Looking in the economic crystal ball, the professor predicted no recession for the US in 2025; China seeing GDP growth below 5 per cent "but no reason to panic"; and Japan returning to growth above 1 per cent next year. He also said Australia could see inflation drop to the top of the RBA's targeted range "by May 2025," facilitating further rate reductions.
Asked about Australia's challenges, the professor pointed to lagging productivity growth despite the impact of technological change and artificial intelligence, urging policymakers to tackle the issue to maintain living standards.
He also said the U.S. presidential election result likely would not affect the U.S. Federal Reserve's policy of gradual rate reductions, but may lead to increased geopolitical instability, adversely affecting the global economy.
The QJCCI thanks Hall Chadwick Qld and Director Cameron Field, who also serves as the Chamber's Treasurer, for the superb hospitality and venue provided for the event.
With the professor's interest rate predictions particularly popular among attendees, the Chamber looks forward to inviting him back again in 2025 for another night of economic analysis.
Photos from the event are available on the QJCCI website.
Australia-Japan Dinner - August 21, Brisbane
Held as part of "Japan Month" celebrations in Brisbane, the annual Australia-Japan Dinner brought together a number of Japan-related organisations in another special night of networking.
Hosted at the superb Brisbane riverside venue offered by QJCCI Premium Member, Stamford Plaza Brisbane, the sold-out event attracted approximately 130 guests from across the Queensland-Japan community.
Together with the QJCCI, the August 21 event was supported by a range of Japan-related organisations, including the Australia-Japan Society (Qld); the Japanese Society of Gold Coast; the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Brisbane; the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Gold Coast; the Japanese Club of Brisbane; Brisbane Seinendan Japanese Community; the Australia-Japan Business Co-operation Committee; the Japan Community of Queensland; and the Consulate-General of Japan in Brisbane.
After introductions from QJCCI President Chris Whitecross, Vice President Peter Koppman and also Margaret Rackemann of AJS-Qld, guests were officially welcomed to the event by Mr GOMAKUBO Junji, Consul-General of Japan in Brisbane, who noted that "Queensland was the starting point for Australia-Japan exchanges" from the establishment of the first Japanese Consulate in Australia, located in Townsville.
"Descendants of Sakuragawa Rikinosuke, the first Japanese to come to Australia in 1873 and become a naturalised citizen - the Dikinoski family - have lived in Queensland for generations," Mr GOMAKUBO said, highlighting the longstanding connections between Japan and Queensland.
Keynote speaker, Trade and Investment Qld CEO, Justin McGowan discussed the strong economic and cultural ties between Queensland and Japan, with Japan representing one of Queensland's largest export markets and investment partner.
New industries such as green hydrogen are being supported by Japanese companies, who have a long track record of investing in Queensland, together with the traditional mainstays of agriculture, energy, resources and tourism.
Mr McGowan highlighted Queensland's support for Expo 2025 Osaka, with the Queensland Government joining the Commonwealth as a "Gold Partner" at the world exposition planned for Osaka from April 13 to October 13, 2025.
The AJS-Qld's David Shield then introduced to guests the authentic Japanese entertainment provided by Japanese taiko drummers, UQ Taiko.
The QJCCI thanks Stamford Plaza Brisbane for its superb hospitality and service, with attendees enjoying an excellent three-course dinner followed by networking.
The QJCCI is grateful to all the Japan-related organisations who made the event such a tremendous success.
Further photos regarding the event will be published on the QJCCI website.
QJCCI/AJS-QLD Luncheon with Japanese Ambassador - May 17, Brisbane
The QJCCI and the Australia-Japan Society - Qld were honoured to host the Japanese Ambassador to Australia, Ambassador SUZUKI Kazuhiro, at an exclusive Member-only luncheon held Friday, May 17 at the Brisbane Club.
Addressing the sold-out event, the Japanese Ambassador pointed to the "special strategic partnership" between Australia and Japan, currently Australia's second-largest trading partner and third-largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI). He noted a 2023 Lowy Institute poll which found Australians rated Japan ahead of Britain, France and the United States in acting responsibly in global affairs.
"Australia is the absolute lifeline of Japan, with Japan relying on Australia for 72 per cent of its coal, 60 per cent of its iron ore and 40 per cent of its liquefied natural gas," the Ambassador said.
Japan's FDI in Australia hit a record high in 2023 of nearly $134 billion, with investments across a range of sectors including real estate, energy, technology, financial services, consumer goods, infrastructure, housing and services.
The Ambassador also highlighted Japan's efforts towards net zero emissions, with plans to achieve a 46 per cent reduction by 2030 compared to 2013, and ultimately an even higher 50 per cent cut.
Part of this drive is collaboration with a range of countries under the "Asia Zero Emission Community," which includes Australia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand and other Asian nations. In Australia, Japanese companies such as ENEOS, Itochu, Iwatani, Marubeni, Mitsubishi, Mitsui, Osaka Gas, Sojitz, Sumitomo and others have joined in more than 30 hydrogen projects, including several in Queensland.
Other emerging areas of Japanese investment in Australia include in housing, where the Ambassador noted that Japanese home builders had the potential to support efforts to boost housing supply. Urban development and high speed rail are also seen as areas of collaboration, he said, along with partnering on creating a "resilient critical minerals supply chain"; cyber security; and in space exploration.
In food and beverage, nine of Australia's top 10 beer brands are produced by subsidiaries of Japan's Asahi and Kirin, while Suntory's $400 million Swanbank manufacturing facility in Ipswich represented the largest single fast-moving consumer goods investment in Australia in the past decade.
Japan and Australia are also strengthening bilateral defence cooperation, having conducted a number of joint exercises during the past year, including potential cooperation on AUKUS Pillar II advanced capability projects, he said.
Meanwhile, the number of tourists between Japan and Australia has surged since the end of COVID-19 border restrictions, with currently over 80 direct flights a week between Australia and Japan.
Australia also ranks first in the world in per capita population of active Japanese language learners, with Queensland particularly active, the Ambassador said.
Other emerging aspects of the relationship include Japan's connectivity initiatives as part of the "Free and Open Indo-Pacific" (FOIP), including developing subsea cable networks in the Pacific Islands.
Japan has also established a new defence cooperation framework known as "Official Security Assistance" (OSA) for like-minded countries, under which it has taken measures such as supplying patrol boats and other related equipment to Fiji and other countries.
Welcoming the Ambassador, QJCCI President Chris Whitecross said Australia-Japan ties had gone from strength to strength, with the relationship now deepening across a range of fields.
"The trade and investment relationship with Japan is booming, with Queensland at the forefront in attracting new Japanese investment in areas such as green hydrogen," Mr Whitecross said.
"More Australians are visiting Japan now than ever before, with next year's Expo 2025 Osaka set to put the international spotlight on Japan. We look forward to welcoming the Ambassador back to Brisbane again soon as we work to build an even stronger relationship between Queensland and Japan."
Appointed Japan's Ambassador to Australia in March 2023, Ambassador SUZUKI has had an extensive diplomatic career since joining Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1986. He previously served as Japanese Ambassador to the Republic of Turkiye (2020-23), with other former posts at the Japanese embassies in Beijing and Washington D.C., as well as serving as Japanese Ambassador to Ethiopia and various positions in Tokyo.
Photos from the event are available on this page.
Australia at Expo 2025 Osaka - April 17, Brisbane
Queenslanders have happy memories of Expo 88 which put Brisbane on the global map. On April 17, the QJCCI put the spotlight on the next hosts of this global event, Osaka, and the opportunities it will bring for Queensland businesses.
Generously hosted by leading Japanese telecommunications company NTT at its Brisbane office and supported by Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ), this sold-out event showcased some of the amazing opportunities from expo.
Welcoming guests, NTT Data's Stephen Wilkinson, Senior Director - Services, pointed to NTT's global scope of operations as the world's fourth largest telco with more than 330,000 staff worldwide. In Australia, the company has major centres across the east coast, covering industries including financial services, healthcare, higher education and manufacturing, and with innovative projects including protecting Daintree rainforest from invasive species.
Keynote speaker, Ms Nancy Gordon, Commissioner General for Australia at Expo 2025, discussed the opportunities for Australian businesses from participating in Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan, to be held from April 13 - October 13, 2025.
The event has attracted 161 participating nations, with 28 million visitors expected during its 183 days and likely more than 15,000 visitors per day to the Australia Pavilion.
"Based on a theme of 'Designing Future Society for Our Lives,' Expo 2025 Osaka will focus on designing a sustainable society that supports social challenges, emerging sciences and evolving technologies - something Australia is already renowned for," Ms Gordon noted.
"Under the theme, 'Chasing the Sun,' the Australia Pavilion will create an immersive exhibition to enable visitors to connect with Australia in familiar but also new and surprising ways, creating a memorable and positive experience through the lens of a modern, diverse Australia."
The Australia Pavilion will focus on areas including new energy and decarbonisation; health and medtech; gender equality and inclusion; food, wine, textiles and agriculture; international education; arts and culture; sport; future society, cities, technology and innovation; space; and sustainability.
Ms Gordon said there were opportunities for businesses to join the Australia Pavilion as event partners, facilitating brand building, expanding market reach and developing new global connections.
Businesses could also contribute value-in-kind products and services worth from $50,000 to $249,999, in return for a range of benefits such as online and physical branding and event invites.
TIQ CEO, Mr Justin McGowan highlighted the opportunities for Queensland businesses to benefit from the event. On March 6, TIQ was announced as the first "Gold Partner" of the Australia Pavilion, demonstrating the Queensland Government's support for the Japan expo.
“Japan is one of Queensland’s largest trading partners and a long-time friend of the state with a relationship built on mutual trust and synergies,” Mr McGowan said.
“This is the perfect opportunity to showcase Queensland’s modern and diverse economy to the world and demonstrate the exceptional partnerships and lucrative investment options available."
Queensland will host a series of events at the Australia Pavilion, promoting key partners, creating opportunities to advance trade, tourism and investment, and showcasing Queensland’s modern and diverse economy to Japan and the world, he said.
QJCCI President Chris Whitecross said the Chamber would seek interest in a group visit to Expo 2025 Osaka, to support a further strengthening of Queensland's business ties with Japan.
"The Chamber will invite QJCCI Members to register their interest to join our Expo 2025 Osaka visit. This is a once in a decade opportunity and we encourage particularly those who haven't much experience with Japan to consider joining us," he said.
Mr Whitecross thanked NTT for its superb hospitality in hosting the event, together with the outstanding support provided by TIQ.
He also thanked Japan Deputy Consul-General, Ms MASUDA Chieko, for her strong support of the Chamber during her time in Queensland, with Ms MASUDA soon set to return to Tokyo.
QJCCI 'Shinnenkai' New Year Networking - February 8, Brisbane
The QJCCI kicked off the Year of the Dragon with a bang, welcoming a record audience to the Chamber's traditional 'shinnenkai' new year networking event.
Generously hosted by QJCCI Premium Member, Hall Chadwick Qld, the February 8 event welcomed a number of VIP guests together with longstanding and new members.
Welcoming guests, QJCCI President Chris Whitecross noted the record attendance for a Shinnenkai function and the growth in the Chamber's membership, reflecting the strength of the Queensland-Japan relationship.
"It is wonderful to see so many new attendees here tonight - the Chamber has continued to grow over the past 12 months and we have welcomed quite a number of new members," he said.
"Significantly, following January's devastating Noto Peninsula earthquake, the Chamber will be donating all proceeds from tonight's event to support disaster victims. A total of $1,000 will be donated to the Consulate-General of Japan in Brisbane's official appeal for disaster relief."
(For more information on the appeal and to donate, please visit this website).
Mr Whitecross thanked Hall Chadwick Qld, represented by QJCCI Treasurer and Hall Chadwick Director Cameron Field, for the company's longstanding support for the Chamber.
Japan Consul-General Mr GOMAKUBO Junji then officially opened the event, noting Mr Whitecross' recent Certificate of Commendation from the Consulate and thanking guests for their strong support for the Queensland-Japan relationship.
The QJCCI also thanks Adventure Day Trips for its generous contribution to support quake victims.
The Chamber thanks Hall Chadwick Qld for its superb hospitality, together with the delicious catering provided by QJCCI Premium Member, Stamford Plaza Brisbane.
More photos from the evening are available on the QJCCI Facebook page.
QJCCI 'Bonenkai' Year-End Networking - December 7, Brisbane
Held at the superb Brisbane riverside venue offered by QJCCI Premium Member, Stamford Plaza Brisbane, the QJCCI's December 7 'bonenkai' year-end networking event attracted another large gathering from across the Queensland-Japan business and government community.
Representing the Consulate-General of Japan in Brisbane, Consul (Economic Section) YANAGIDA Naoki noted the relationship between Japan and Australia continued to strengthen, ranging from traditional mainstays such as agriculture, education and resources into new fields such as clean energy.
He pointed to the QJCCI's recent events on green hydrogen and carbon farming as evidence of the broadening of the relationship between the longstanding major trade and investment partners.
QJCCI President Chris Whitecross thanked QJCCI Members and guests for the Chamber's successful events over the past year, with another strong year seen ahead in 2024.
"The Chamber's growing membership, our broadening into new areas such as green hydrogen, the successful inaugural joint chamber Australia-Japan dinner and other events highlighted a fantastic year for Queensland-Japan ties," Mr Whitecross said.
"We look forward to another excellent line-up of diverse events in 2024, Japan's Year of the Dragon, as we build and extend on the strong relationship between our two nations."
He thanked the attendance of guests from a range of organisations supporting Qld-Japan ties, including Austrade, the Australia-Japan Society Qld, Business Chamber Queensland, DFAT Qld, Export Finance Australia, Redland City Council, Trade and Investment Qld and the JCCIB.
The QJCCI thanks Members and guests for one of the most well-attended 'bonenkai' events and for the outstanding support shown over the past year.
Photos from the event are available on the QJCCI Facebook page.
The QJCCI extends our very best wishes for an enjoyable and safe festive season and for a happy and prosperous New Year 2024, Japan's Year of the Dragon.
QJCCI Annual General Meeting - November 20, Brisbane
Hosted by QJCCI Premium Member, Hall Chadwick Qld, the QJCCI's 2023 Annual General Meeting saw a new Management Committee elected for fiscal 2024 amid a positive outlook for Queensland-Japan relations.
The new QJCCI Management Committee was confirmed as the following:
* President: Chris Whitecross, Managing Director, Arrowdynamics
* Vice President: Julie Yamamoto, 2K16 Consulting
* Vice President: Peter Koppman, Senior Adviser (a/g) - Investment Strategy, Insights & Performance, Austrade
* Treasurer: Cameron Field, Director, Hall Chadwick Qld
* Secretary: Julio Santana, Manager, JFE Shoji Trade Australia
* Yukari Ando, Director, Day to Day Private Wealth
* Anthony Fensom, Managing Director, Fensom Advisory
* Alexander Samson, Partner, DLA Piper
* Constantine Splawa-Neyman, Senior Relationship Manager, Westpac
* Robert Whiddon, former Managing Director, Trade and Investment Queensland
QJCCI President Chris Whitecross noted the growth in the Chamber's membership, helped by successful events over the past year including on topics such as carbon farming, green hydrogen and ammonia; export-related and business communication webinars; and the inaugural joint chamber Australia-Japan Dinner.
"The Queensland-Japan relationship continues to strengthen and 2024 is set to be an bigger year for the Chamber, as we work to build upon these strong foundations with a range of highly topical and engaging events across Queensland," Mr Whitecross said.
Treasurer Cameron Field noted the QJCCI's healthy financial position, with a small profit recorded for the financial year despite challenging economic conditions and rising inflation, reflecting the quality of the Chamber's events and its growing reputation.
The QJCCI welcomed special guests to the AGM, with the Consulate-General of Japan in Brisbane represented by Deputy Consul-General, MASUDA Chieko and Consul (Economic Section) YANAGIDA Naoki.
The QJCCI thanks Members for their support of the Management Committee, all volunteers committed to advancing ties between Queensland and Japan.
QJCCI Economic Outlook - September 13, Brisbane
Following from the success of last year's event, the QJCCI's September 13 Economic Outlook event again generously hosted by DLA Piper gave participants the latest insights from Tokyo on the merger and acquisition (M&A) market, together with the economic outlook for Australia, Japan and the global economy.
Speaking live from Tokyo, DLA Piper Senior Associate, Edward Mears said Japanese companies were expected to conduct more outbound M&A in 2023, based on factors including the relaxation of COVID-19 border controls, an increased focus on corporate governance measures calling for diversification of holdings and the effects of changing demographics in Japan.
Inbound M&A was relatively consistent in 2022, with positive factors including shareholder pressure to offload non-core assets, a lack of business successors for small to mid-size enterprises, the cheaper yen and corporate governance reforms.
Regarding Japan-Australia M&A, Mr Mears pointed to opportunities including defence and energy cooperation, amid increasing linkages between Japan, the United States and Australia. War in Ukraine has reinvigorated the need to diversify energy security away from carbon, with new policy frameworks in Australia concerning renewables, critical minerals, carbon markets and net zero pledges providing more investment certainty.
Keynote speaker, Griffith Business School's Professor Fabrizio Carmignani entertained guests with another excellent analysis of economic conditions and the global outlook. After the global slowdown seen in 2022, he said supply chains were now recovering from the COVID-19 difficulties, however inflation was proving "more persistent than expected" with higher interest rates weighing on global activity.
"Inflation in 2023 is above target in most countries, meaning that central banks will likely continue to maintain a conservative stance on policy," he said. Nevertheless, "long-term inflation expectations remain anchored, implying a return to target in 2024."
In contrast with Western central banks, in Asia, China, the world's second-largest economy has started cutting interest rates, while Japan's central bank has held official rates near zero.
Inflation in Japan hit a four-decade high in February 2023, driven by higher energy prices and a weak yen, among other factors, with a shrinking output gap expected to add to inflationary pressures. Japan's core consumer inflation reached 3.1 per cent in July, staying above the central bank's 2 per cent target for the 16th straight month.
Fiscal policy has also remained expansionary in the world's third-largest economy, Prof. Carmignani said, with scope for some form of consolidation to reduce the burden on monetary policy.
Concerning Australia, with inflation past its peak, the professor said the key question was "whether the RBA [Reserve Bank of Australia] should start cutting rates," however there were conflicting factors weighing on policymakers.
A tight labour market is putting pressure on wages, with inflation remaining well above the RBA's target. On the other hand, "growth is not particularly strong, consumer sentiment is weak and business confidence quite volatile."
As a result, "wait-and-see" is the most likely strategy from the RBA, with the professor suggesting interest rates could start declining from 2024. It is also important for Canberra to conduct further fiscal consolidation, to preserve policy space for counter-cyclical fiscal policy, when needed.
Looking ahead, Prof. Carmignani said Japan's yield curve pointed to a positive outlook for 2024, with Australia's only minimal yield curve inversion suggesting the economy will avoid recession.
The QJCCI thanks DLA Piper for its superb hospitality at its Brisbane CBD office, together with VIP guests including Ms MASUDA Chieko, Deputy Consul-General of Japan in Brisbane, and the Hon. John Mickel, former Speaker of the Queensland Parliament.
As noted by DLA Piper Partner Alexander Samson, the global law firm has advised on more M&A transactions worldwide than any other law firm during the past year, with more such activity expected due to the strong ties between Australia and Japan.
QJCCI President Chris Whitecross also welcomed the latest new QJCCI members, comprising InterFinancial Corporate Finance; the Logan Office of Economic Development, Logan City Council; Toll Global Forwarding; and Alex Simshauser.
Australia-Japan Dinner - August 17, Brisbane
Held as part of "Japan Month" celebrations in Brisbane, the inaugural Australia-Japan Dinner brought together a number of Japan-related organisations in a special night of networking hosted by Stamford Plaza Brisbane.
Significantly, the August 17 event was supported by a range of Japan-related organisations, including the Australia-Japan Society (Qld); the Japanese Society of Gold Coast; the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Gold Coast; the Japanese Club of Brisbane; Japan Tourism Gold Coast; Brisbane Seinendan Japanese Community; the Australia-Japan Business Co-operation Committee; the World Association of Overseas Japanese Entrepreneurs; and the Consulate-General of Japan in Brisbane.
Guests were welcomed to the event by AJS Qld's David Shield, Austrade's and QJCCI Management Committee member Peter Koppman and QJCCI President Chris Whitecross, with entertainment provided by Japanese taiko drummers, UQ Taiko.
Keynote speaker, Mr GOMAKUBO Junji, Consul-General of Japan in Brisbane, entertained the audience with a quiz entitled "10 Things You Should Know About the Japanese Economy."
Among the facts on the world's third-largest economy:
* Of the more than 100,000 Japanese firms that have been in business for more than 100 years, around 45,000 are in the manufacturing sector
* The "Economic Complexity Index" that shows how many goods a country's economy produces ranks Japan first
* The "six stars" in Japanese automaker Subaru's logo reflect its six corporate co-founders
* The QR Code was invented by a Japanese auto parts company, originally for its own inventory management
* Japan's oldest company, Kongō Gumi was founded in 578, a construction company based in Osaka that restores temples and other cultural heritage buildings.
"Tradition is a constant source of innovation," Mr GOMAKUBO said, pointing to companies such as Higeta Soy Sauce, which transformed itself from a soy sauce producer into a biotechnology company.
"The list of products in which the technologies of long-established Japanese companies are used is endless. It is not big companies, but ordinary small and medium-sized enterprises that have been supporting the current Japanese economy by refining and polishing the technologies of their family businesses."
The QJCCI thanks Stamford Plaza Brisbane, a QJCCI Premium Member, for its superb hospitality and service, with the approximately 120 attendees enjoying an excellent three-course dinner followed by networking.
The QJCCI is grateful to all the Japan-related organisations who made the event such a tremendous success.
QJCCI Japan Export Webinar: Win business in Queensland's top export market, July 18
Japan is the world's third-largest economy, Queensland’s top export market and one of Australia’s biggest overseas investors. But how do you go about securing finance and winning business from a nation known for its distinctive language, culture and business practices?
The QJCCI's July 18 webinar addressed these key issues while outlining a range of opportunities for Queensland businesses in Japan, thanks to its expert panel of speakers from key Australian export assistance agencies Austrade, Export Finance Australia and Trade & Investment Queensland.
Peter Koppman, Senior Adviser for Austrade’s Strategic Investment Projects, highlighted the assistance available from Australian businesses from Austrade, which has a network of 70 offices worldwide, including in Japan.
He pointed to the benefits of Export Market Development Grants (EMDGs), with amounts ranging from $10,000 up to $30,000 per annum to help exporters promote their goods and services globally. (For assistance, phone 13 28 78, or email ).
Other useful websites for exporters include Austrade's grants and programs finder; the DFAT Free Trade Agreement Portal, including JAEPA; and IP Australia, which helps protect valuable intellectual property.
Jana Walker, Associate Director, Business Development, Qld at Export Finance Australia said the Australian government's export credit agency provided finance solutions to support export-related contracts and international expansion, supporting businesses including SMEs to realise export opportunities. The EFA's finance solutions include loans, bonds and guarantees, with a minimum loan amount of $20,000 for businesses.
She pointed to two case studies, Hanging Rock Winery in Victoria which obtained a $350,000 Small Business Export Loan to support the winery during COVID-19; and Altus Renewables, which secured a $5 million Export Line of Credit Facility to support a Japanese contract for biomass based fuels. (For more information, visit www.exportfinance.gov.au).
Keiko Yanai, Director of Trade and Investment Queensland’s Japan office, noted TIQ's global network of 18 international offices in 14 markets, including Tokyo. TIQ's Japan team led by Commissioner, Tak Adachi covers various areas, including investment attraction, food and agriculture, consumer goods, education and innovation.
Ms Yanai noted that Japan was Queensland's top export market in the year to May 2023, with total Queensland exports of more than $25.8 billion, up 28 per cent. Japan is also the fourth-largest foreign investor in Australia, currently with more than $257 billion invested.
The recent JAEPA free trade deal has cut tariffs on a range of products including beef, wine, grains, seafood and dairy, with Queensland currently the top beef supplier to Japan. Queensland also has the largest share of Japanese students compared to other states, while tourism is recovering strongly from the pandemic restrictions, helped by additional direct flights between Queensland and Japan via Brisbane and Cairns.
Queensland has recently become the first "Gold Partner" of the Australian pavilion at the Osaka Expo 2025, providing further opportunities for a strengthened relationship that benefits from political stability and economic complimentarities. There is a strong market for agribusiness/food, services and technology, advanced manufacturing and international health, she said. (For more information, visit www.tiq.qld.gov.au).
The webinar presentations were followed by a Q&A session, with questions concerning graduate programs at the agencies, advice for high-tech R&D exporters and professional services.
The event was hosted by the QJCCI's and Republic PR's Anthony Fensom.
A recording of the webinar is available via this link.
About Austrade
The Australian Trade and Investment Commission—Austrade—promotes Australian trade, investment, tourism and education to the world. We deliver services to grow Australia’s economic prosperity. Our global network turns local market connections and insights into valuable export and investment support. Find out more its website, https://www.austrade.gov.au/
About Export Finance Australia
At Export Finance Australia, we provide finance solutions for Australian exporters and overseas infrastructure development that delivers benefits to Australia. We are an integral part of Australia’s international trade and investment focus, and our support enables businesses, jobs and the community to grow.
By working together with banks, other government agencies and our partners to drive international success, we aim to ensure that no one takes on the world alone. For more information, visit the website at https://www.exportfinance.gov.au/
About Trade and Investment Queensland
Trade and Investment Queensland is the Queensland Government’s dedicated global business agency, helping Queensland exporters take their products to world markets and promoting Queensland as the perfect place for investment. TIQ’s global network includes a Japan office based in Tokyo, led by experienced trade and investment commissioner Tak Adachi. Learn more about TIQ and its support for Queensland exporters via its website, https://www.tiq.qld.gov.au/
QJCCI Member-Only Event: Welcome to Japan Consul-General - May 30, 2023
The QJCCI welcomed Japan's newly appointed Consul-General, Mr GOMAKUBO Junji, to Brisbane in an exclusive member-only event on May 30.
Generously hosted by QJCCI Premium Member, DLA Piper at its Brisbane office, the evening was another excellent networking event for QJCCI members.
Together with the Consul-General and our hosts DLA Piper, VIP guests included Deputy Consul-General, MASUDA Chieko; Connie Lo, Deputy State Director, Queensland State Office, DFAT; QAGOMA Director, Chris Saines; Export Finance Australia's Jana Walker; Business Chamber Queensland's Diana Gueorguieva and Margaret Rackemann, Australia-Japan Society Qld.
The event was opened by DLA Piper Partner, Alexander Samson, who noted the strength of the economic relationship between Australia and Japan, with the firm's clients benefitting from its establishment of a Tokyo office staffed by a number of Japanese bengoshi (lawyers).
Mr GOMAKUBO expressed his thanks for the positive reception he had received in Queensland since taking up his post in Brisbane in late April. He pointed to new areas of the Queensland-Japan relationship, including the growth of the green hydrogen industry, together with strengthening security ties such as the upcoming "Talisman Sabre" exercises.
QJCCI President Chris Whitecross thanked guests for their attendance, noting the Chamber's plans for a dinner event with a number of other Japan-related organisations in August (details to be confirmed).
More photos from the event are available on the QJCCI Facebook page.
Learn the Secrets of Successful Japanese Business Communication - Webinar, May 18
Japan is the world's third-largest economy, offering a wealth of opportunity for Australian businesses. But how do you successfully communicate and engage with Japan, a nation with its own unique and distinctive language, culture and business practices?
On May 18, Japanese communication expert, Rochelle Kopp of Japan Intercultural Consulting, unveiled some of the secrets of successfully communicating in Japan at a webinar hosted by the QJCCI's and Republic PR's Anthony Fensom.
The webinar covered a range of topics, including:
* Japanese preferences for communication style
* Formatting of information
* Authenticity and attention detail
* Japanese customer service expectations
* Dealing with the language barrier.
The presentation was followed by a lively Q&A, including commentary on communicating in a Covid environment and also on the impact of artificial technology such as ChatGPT.
A recording of the event is available via this link.
The QJCCI thanks our keynote speaker and looks forward to hosting further webinars on this interesting topic!
Green Hydrogen & Ammonia - Queensland's Role in Powering Japan's 2050 Net Zero - March 6, Brisbane
Queensland's role as a supplier of clean energy and its ability to help power Japan's 2050 'net zero' goal was examined at another topical QJCCI event.
Presented in partnership with QJCCI Premium Member, Herbert Smith Freehills and introduced by Trade and Investment Queensland, the QJCCI hosted Japanese energy expert, Mr Shigeru Muraki, as keynote speaker on this topic of vital interest to both nations.
Currently serving as President of the Clean Fuel Ammonia Association, Mr Muraki provided an outline of Japan's road map towards net zero by 2050 and the importance of green hydrogen and ammonia in these targets, with Queensland a key part of this clean energy supply chain.
Founded in 2021, the Clean Fuel Ammonia Association currently has 184 corporations, institutions and government offices as members across 15 countries, including the Queensland Government.
Mr Muraki highlighted Japan's plans to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 based on electrification by decarbonised power, including the use of hydrogen, ammonia and biomass along with renewable energy and nuclear power.
Hydrogen is seen as key, with the Japanese Government aiming to slash the cost to one-fifth or less of its present level, developing international hydrogen supply chains together with domestic power-to-gas for renewable hydrogen supply.
In this regard, ammonia is considered the cheapest mechanism for the transportation of hydrogen across the ocean, including from Australia to Japan.
Mr Muraki demonstrated ammonia's potential, with the gas expected to gain a 46% share of the international maritime fuel market by 2050, supporting the decarbonisation of transport. Some 230 million tonnes would be required for shipping alone, exceeding current global annual production of around 200 million tonnes of ammonia.
While Japan's market for ammonia could reach 30 million tonnes per annum by 2030, Asian power and maritime markets could require more than 100 million tonnes annually across the supply chain, including for coal power plants and industrial furnaces.
Notably, the Japanese Government is supporting the industry's development with billions of dollars allocated via its "Green Transformation Economic Transition Bonds."
"Seven trillion Japanese yen (US$54 billion) has been allocated in the 10 years from around 2027, including 5 trillion yen for supply chain development and one trillion yen each for infrastructure development and R&D," Mr Muraki said.
The funding will include subsidies to cover a portion of the gap between current supply costs and market costs, he said.
Japan is developing its own standards for a clean hydrogen supply chain, with Queensland seen as a key provider of "green" ammonia.
Trade and Investment Queensland CEO, Mr Justin McGowan, welcomed Mr Muraki's insights, noting that Japan is currently Queensland's top export market, with enormous opportunities across clean energy, agriculture, resources, tourism and other sectors.
QJCCI President, Mr Chris Whitecross thanked the large audience at the Brisbane Club for their participation, with a particular thanks for the outstanding support for the event provided by Herbert Smith Freehills and the introduction of Trade and Investment Queensland.
Herbert Smith Freehills Partner, Ms Melissa Swain-Tonkin noted the importance of green hydrogen to Queensland, saying the industry had shown enormous growth and Queensland was well placed to support its development.
Highlighting the growth of this emerging industry in Queensland, in February, Japanese energy giant ENEOS commenced green hydrogen production in Brisbane, with a number of Japanese companies including Iwatani Corporation, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Kansai Electric Power Company and Marubeni also involved in the state's emerging clean energy industry.
QJCCI 'Shinnenkai' New Year Networking - February 16, Brisbane
The QJCCI celebrated the Year of the Rabbit at another well-attended 'shinnenkai' (new year networking) event held on February 16, generously hosted by QJCCI Premium Member, Hall Chadwick Qld at its head office in Brisbane.
With international borders reopening, the event occurred amid an extremely positive environment for Australia-Japan ties across commerce, education, security, tourism, trade and cultural fields.
Japan Consul-General in Brisbane, Mr ONO Masuo opened proceedings, welcoming members and guests and noting a number of recent highlights in the Queensland-Japan relationship. These include the growth of the green hydrogen, clean energy industry and launch of new flights, including Qantas flights from Brisbane to Tokyo's Haneda airport and Virgin's new Cairns-Haneda route.
He also noted that Japan had regained its position as Queensland's top export market in 2022, thanks to increased exports including resources and energy, agriculture and services.
QJCCI President Chris Whitecross similarly welcomed the large gathering, saying the Australia-Japan relationship had never been stronger and now was an excellent time to establish new business and investment partnerships.
With Japan now fully reopened for vaccinated international visitors and new airline connections, there has never been a better time to re-engage with the world's third-largest economy.
The QJCCI wishes to thank Hall Chadwick Qld, including Director Cameron Field, for its excellent hospitality and superb venue provided for the event.
The Chamber thanks everyone for contributing to a successful event, as we look ahead to a productive 2023 in the Queensland-Japan relationship.
QJCCI 'Bonenkai' Year-End Networking - December 8, Stamford Plaza Brisbane
A year of achievements was celebrated on December 8 at the QJCCI's traditional 'bonenkai' year-end networking event, generously hosted by QJCCI Premium Member, Stamford Plaza Brisbane.
With Queensland-Japan ties continuing to strengthen, the event celebrated what has been an extremely positive year in the relationship, across commerce, security, trade and cultural fields.
QJCCI Vice President Julie Yamamoto opened proceedings, welcoming members and guests and thanking Stamford Plaza Brisbane for another excellent display of hospitality in its stunning Brisbane riverside setting.
VIP guest, Japan Deputy Consul-General, Ms MASUDA Chieko then thanked the Chamber and all connected with Queensland-Japan ties for their efforts over the past year, noting the growth of the relationship with Japan recently regaining its position as Queensland's top export market.
With Japan now reopened for international visitors and new connections in December such as the Brisbane-Tokyo (Haneda Airport) route operated by Qantas, there has never been a better time to re-engage with the world's third-largest economy.
The QJCCI wishes to thank our door prize contributors, including the tour voucher offered by leading Brisbane tour operator Adventure Day Trips, together with a dinner voucher from Stamford Plaza Brisbane.
The Chamber thanks everyone for contributing to the success of our events in 2022, as we look forward to the Year of the Rabbit in 2023!
QJCCI Gold Coast Networking - November 22, Chateraise Lakelands Golf Club, Merrimac
The QJCCI returned to the Gold Coast on November 22 for another evening of fantastic networking, at the superb facilities of QJCCI Premium Member, Chateraise Lakelands Golf Club.
Held in conjunction with JCCI Gold Coast, the Japan Community of Queensland, Japanese Society of Gold Coast and Japan Tourism Gold Coast, the event attracted a top-tier audience of the Queensland-Japan community on the Gold Coast.
Mr ONO Masuo, Consul-General of Japan in Brisbane and Deputy Consul-General, Ms MASUDA Chieko were among VIP guests to the event, together with Japanese Society of Gold Coast President Yukari Ando and JCCI Gold Coast President Saku Sunakawa.
Opening the event, QJCCI President Chris Whitecross thanked guests for their attendance at what has now become a regular meeting place for the Chamber on the Gold Coast, with the QJCCI keen to expand its horizons across Queensland.
"2022 has been an excellent year for Queensland and Australia-Japan relations, and from every signal I'm seeing the relationship has never been stronger," Mr Whitecross said.
VIP speaker, Mr ONO thanked guests, noting the Japanese community's longstanding presence on the Gold Coast and growing trade and investment links with Queensland across tourism, energy, resources, education, agriculture and other sectors.
The QJCCI thanks Chateraise Lakelands Golf Club for its excellent hospitality, together with Adventure Day Trips for generously transporting a number of guests from Brisbane.
With this event continuing to attract strong interest, the QJCCI looks forward to returning to the Gold Coast in 2023!
Carbon Farming - Pathway to Net Zero Emissions - October 6, Brisbane
Carbon farming is rapidly expanding in Queensland, with some 250 projects already operating and many more in the pipeline. With major trading partner Japan also looking at opportunities in this sector, could the Queensland-Japan relationship be set to enter a new and greener future?
On Thursday, October 6, the QJCCI and an expert panel from Queensland and Japan examined these questions and more at an exclusive luncheon event at the Brisbane Club, entitled "Carbon Farming - Pathway to Net Zero Emissions."
Opening the event, Queensland Trade and Investment Commissioner for Japan, Tak Adachi, described the enormous opportunity for Queensland and Japan in such areas as carbon farming, low emission agriculture and biomass.
He noted the recent launch of the A$62 billion "Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan," under which the state government has committed to a target of 70% renewable energy by 2032, the year of the Brisbane Olympics.
Mr Adachi highlighted how Japan, a nation of 124 million people, currently imports around 60% of its food and up to 95% of its energy, with Queensland in a strong position to benefit as a supplier of both key goods.
The next speaker was J-Power's Hiroyuki Kagamoto, who described his energy company's efforts to reduce carbon emissions through using low carbon materials, such as for concrete blocks.
Simon Shaw of The Hydrogen Collective then took over as MC, introducing Lynne Turner, General Manager, Horticulture and Forestry Science at Queensland's Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.
Ms Turner pointed to the need for new solutions to reduce emissions, with the agriculture sector currently producing Queensland's third-highest carbon-equivalent emissions behind energy and transport. Of the farm sector's emissions, enteric methane accounts for 78% of its greenhouse gas emissions.
The next speaker from the Queensland Government was Amelia Selles, Manager Investor Engagement, Department of Environment and Science.
Ms Selles noted opportunities for investors from Japan and elsewhere in funds such as Queensland Investment Corporation's "Queensland Natural Capital Fund," which seeks to drive environmental outcomes while delivering investor returns.
After a panel discussion involving Mr Adachi, Ms Turner and Ms Selles, Mr Adachi welcomed NTT Data Institute of Management Consulting's Motoshi Muraoka, who spoke about Japan's "J-Credit" scheme of domestic carbon credits and the opportunities for investors.
Mr Muraoka highlighted emerging research and development in Australia, including a CSIRO, James Cook University and Meat & Livestock Australia study that showed it could be possible to reduce 98% of methane emissions from cattle.
Next to address the audience (online from Japan) was JGC Holding Corporation's Yuki Nishimura, who discussed his company's efforts to produce sustainable aviation fuel, targeting first production in 2025, the year of the Osaka Expo.
Also speaking online from Japan, Asahi Kasei's Nobuko Uetake discussed her company's work in developing biochemicals from bioethanol, a unique one-step process that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The Chamber wishes to thank all attendees including our VIP guest, the Japan Consul-General in Brisbane, ONO Masuo, together with representatives of Redland City Council, the Portugese Consulate and Austrade.
The Chamber also thanks our guests from the JCCIB, including representatives of major Japanese companies such as Idemitsu, Iwatani, JFE Shoji, Mitsui, NS Resources and Sojitz.
Concluding the event, QJCCI President Chris Whitecross also acknowledged the significant efforts in building Queensland-Japan ties by AJS Queensland's Margaret Rackemann, who recently stepped down from her role as AJS-Qld president to be replaced by David Shield.
The QJCCI thanks everyone who contributed to the success of the event, which judging from the audience was a very timely discussion!
What's Ahead For The Australian, Japanese & Global Economy - September 6, Brisbane
Rising interest rates both in Australia and globally, a U.S. recession and the impact of global events such as the coronavirus pandemic present a turbulent economic outlook for the year ahead.
How can businesses both in Australia and Japan position themselves to accommodate such circumstances and come out ahead when conditions improve?
On September 6, Griffith Business School's Professor Fabrizio Carmignani provided a valuable update on the Australian, Japanese and global economy and its outlook, at an evening event generously hosted by QJCCI Premium Member, leading law firm DLA Piper, at its Brisbane office.
DLA Piper's Alexander Samson opened proceedings, providing an outline of DLA Piper's services and its recent launch of a Japan-Australia newsletter for the benefit of bilateral investment and trade.
Australia-Japan M&A
This was followed by an exclusive update on Australia-Japan mergers and acquisition (M&A) activity, live from Tokyo by DLA Piper's Masahiko Ishida, Co-Country Managing Partner, Japan.
Mr Ishida highlighted a number of recent Australia-Japan M&A transactions involving Japanese companies such as ENEOS, Itochu, Mitsubishi, Mitsui and Sojitz.
Based on societal pressures, the macroeconomy, ESG and other factors, he pointed to good conditions for further outbound M&A activity by Japanese companies. Mr Ishida also noted the positive political and economic relationship between Australia and Japan, with ESG investments particularly in focus, as contributing to further growth in Japanese investment in Australia.
Inflation risks
Attention then turned to the event's keynote speaker, Professor Carmignani, who provided an update on the current position and outlook for the Australian, Japanese and global economy.
Professor Carmignani stressed that current high inflation is primarily due to "supply side shocks, most notably disruption to global supply chains and geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe and elsewhere."
He said central banks were now implementing their standard "textbook response" of increasing interest rates, with the notable exception of the Bank of Japan (BOJ).
Examining the risks of a global downturn, he said the probability of a recession in the United States, the world's largest economy, was around "40 to 50 per cent," following the impact of stock market volatility and higher interest rates.
While the yield curve is inverted in the United States (an indicator of recession), in Japan it still remains relatively normal he said, with the BOJ maintaining ultra-low interest rates despite a declining exchange rate against the US dollar.
In China, the central bank recently cut interest rates slightly, "indicative of recession taking precedence over inflation as a policy concern."
Nevertheless, the International Monetary Fund still projects positive global economic growth of 3.2 per cent in 2022 and 2.9 per cent in 2023, with Australia expected to expand by 4.1 per cent this year and 2.4 per cent in 2023.
While inflation in Australia is expected to reach 7.8 per cent by year-end, the professor said inflation is seen declining to 4.3 per cent by the end of 2023 and 3 per cent by the end of 2024.
Although current GDP growth in Australia is solid, with low unemployment, Professor Carmignani said Australia is "not immune from global shocks - a global economic slowdown would inevitably affect Australia."
Consumer confidence and business confidence have declined following recent interest rate hikes by the Reserve Bank of Australia, but the nation is still seen avoiding recession, as shown by a relatively normal yield curve.
The QJCCI thanks both DLA Piper and Professor Carmignani for their excellent presentations, with a big thank you to DLA Piper for its superb venue and catering.
The Chamber also thanks our VIP attendees, including the Japan Consul-General in Brisbane, ONO Masuo and Deputy Consul-General, MASUDA Chieko.
Learn the Secrets of Successful Business Communication with Japan - Webinar, July 26
Japan is the world's third-largest economy, offering a wealth of opportunity for Australian businesses. But how do you successfully communicate and engage with Japan, a nation with its own unique and distinctive language, culture and business practices?
On July 26, Tokyo-based Rochelle Kopp of Japan Intercultural Consulting shared some of the secrets of successful business communication with Japan.
During the one-hour webinar, Ms Kopp highlighted key aspects of communicating with Japanese clients or colleagues, including:
* understanding Japanese preferences for communication style
* formatting of information
* authenticity and attention to detail
* Japanese customer service expectations
* dealing with the language barrier.
Ms Kopp also answered a number of questions from participants, including general sentiment towards foreign businesses in Japan, the need to translate documents such as presentations into Japanese, and solutions for the language barrier for smaller companies without a Japanese partner, among other queries.
She also gave some examples of Western companies that have succeeded in Japan, as well as some stories of those that got it wrong!
The event was hosted by the QJCCI's and Republic PR's Anthony Fensom.
A recording of the event is available via this link.
QJCCI Members Lunch with His Excellency Mr YAMAGAMI Shingo, Ambassador of Japan to Australia - June 14, 2022
The QJCCI was delighted to welcome his Excellency, Japanese Ambassador YAMAGAMI Shingo to Brisbane in an exclusive member-only event held on June 14 at the Brisbane Club.
Co-hosted with the Australia-Japan Society (AJS) Qld, the event was attended by a number of dignitaries from government and business, including ONO Masuo, Consul-General of Japan in Brisbane; Trade and Investment Qld Acting CEO, Richard Watson; and JCCIB President Fumitake Uyama.
The Ambassador was formally welcomed to the 2032 Olympics city by QJCCI President Chris Whitecross and AJS-Qld President Margaret Rackemann.
The Ambassador noted the strong trade ties between Queensland and Japan, with Japan recently regaining its position as Queensland's top export market in the year to April 2022, driven by increased exports of Queensland resources, agriculture and other goods.
However, new industries such as green hydrogen are now helping the Queensland-Japan relationship grow even stronger, with a number of Japanese companies participating in Queensland hydrogen projects.
"Japanese companies are spearheading hydrogen and ammonia pilot projects all around Australia," Mr YAMAGAMI said.
"In Gladstone, half a dozen major Japanese players are working towards the goal of turning it into one of Australia’s first hydrogen hubs."
The Ambassador also pointed towards the revival of tourism between Queensland and Japan.
"After two long years of pandemic shutdowns, travel and tourism is finally beginning to resume," Mr YAMAGAMI said.
"Before the pandemic, around half of all Japanese tourists to Australia visited this state."
The Ambassador also noted Queensland's cultural ties to Japan, including its position as Australia's leading state for the study of Japanese language, with some 130,000 Japanese learners, together with more than 30 sister city relationships across the state.
The Brisbane Olympics 2032 should see another opportunity for enhanced cooperation, the Ambassador said, highlighting the potential for Japanese high-speed rail.
Mr YAMAGAMI also welcomed the recent signing of a Reciprocal Access Agreement between Australia and Japan, which will see greater defence ties and the likelihood that "more SDF [Self-Defence Force] uniforms will be seen on Queensland streets."
The QJCCI was delighted to join with the AJS in cohosting the event and congratulates the Society on celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
More photos from the event are available on the QJCCI Facebook page.
QJCCI Member-Only Event: Welcome to Japan Consul-General - March 29, 2022
The QJCCI welcomed Japan's newly appointed Consul-General, Mr ONO Masuo, to Brisbane in an exclusive member-only event on March 29.
Hosted by QJCCI Premium Member, Hall Chadwick Qld, at its Brisbane head office, the evening was another excellent networking event for QJCCI members.
A native of Fukushima Prefecture, Mr ONO's previous roles include dealing with global issues such as chemical weapons and climate change, together with serving as First Secretary at Japan's Embassy in Vietnam.
Speaking to the Queensland Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (QJCCI), Mr ONO said he was keen to see already strong ties between Japan and Queensland expand further, including areas such as hydrogen, agriculture, education and tourism, with the upcoming 2032 Brisbane Olympics another drawcard for Japanese tourists.
Among the attendees at host Hall Chadwick Qld was Chris Shaw, Deputy Director-General, Hydrogen, from Queensland's Department of Energy and Public Works, which is pursuing more hydrogen tie-ups with Japan, together with Brisbane Airport Corporation's Ben James, among other dignitaries.
Particular thanks goes to our door prize contributor, Adventure Day Trips and congratulations to all the lucky winners!
Photos from the event will be made available on the QJCCI Facebook page.
QJCCI 'Bonenkai' Year-End Networking - December 2, 2021
The QJCCI marked the end of an eventful 2021 at our "bonenkai" year-end networking on December 2.
Hosted by QJCCI Premium Member, Stamford Plaza Brisbane, the Brisbane riverside venue and excellent hospitality made for a superb evening of networking.
QJCCI President Chris Whitecross awarded membership certificates to our recent new members, comprising Harding Legal, Interaction Group, Rock Financial Advisory and White & Case LLP.
The QJCCI thanks our VIP guests, including Acting Japan Consul-General, Chieko Masuda, who noted that 2021 had seen Queensland-Japan ties strengthen even further across a range of fields.
Particular thanks goes to our door prize contributors, comprising Adventure Day Trips and Dello Mano, and congratulations to all the lucky winners!
More photos from the event are available on the QJCCI Facebook page.
Queensland & Japan - Driving our Renewable Hydrogen Future - October 21, 2021
Queensland has partnered with Japan's energy giants to drive its future as a renewable hydrogen superpower. With a number of recent agreements signed between leading Queensland and Japanese companies, just how big could the state's new hydrogen export industry become?
Hoping to answer this question, on October 21, the QJCCI brought together leading industry participants from Queensland and Japan for a discussion on the state's renewable hydrogen future.
Presented in partnership with QJCCI Premium Member, Herbert Smith Freehills, the event at Hilton Brisbane attracted a record audience of approximately 130 members and guests, highlighting just how topical hydrogen currently is in Queensland-Japan business and government circles.
The Hon. Mick de Brenni MP, Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen, launched the event by highlighting the rapid growth in Queensland's renewable hydrogen sector and the importance of the state's strong partnership with Japan.
"Japan is a leader in driving the planet's shift to a hydrogen society," the Minister noted, highlighting the participation in the state's hydrogen sector of a range of leading Japanese companies, including ENEOS, Itochu, Iwatani, Kansai Electric Power Co, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Marubeni and Sumitomo Corp.
The event's MC, Simon Shaw, director of The Hydrogen Collective, then took over proceedings, quizzing the assembled panellists on a range of topical issues related to the state's renewable hydrogen industry.
Among them, QUT Professor Ian Mackinnon highlighted the collaboration between QUT and the University of Tokyo on the birth of the new Queensland industry; Minister de Brenni noted the importance of driving domestic demand and building supply chains; Redland Mayor Karen Williams discussed the origins of Queensland's hydrogen sector in the Redlands area; Stanwell's Steve Quilter discussed the company's hydrogen project and the importance of its Japanese partnerships; and Iwatani's Masaru Nishimura commented on the company's new Brisbane office and its commitment to Queensland's hydrogen industry.
Attention then turned to the online speakers, with Tokyo-based Tak Adachi from TIQ discussing the opportunities for Queensland businesses in partnering with Japan, while Melbourne-based Alison Dodd of Herbert Smith Freehills noted the range of hydrogen projects already underway in Queensland.
Based on the record QJCCI audience, Queensland's renewable hydrogen sector is attracting a lot of attention and participants were keen to discuss further partnerships and opportunities as the sector evolves, with parallels to the development of the state's $60 billion LNG industry at Gladstone.
Thanks also to the Japanese Film Festival, which generously contributed a double pass to the lucky door prize winner, for the upcoming Brisbane leg of the festival (from November 11-21 in Brisbane).
More photos from the event are available on the QJCCI Facebook page.
QJCCI Japan Agribusiness Webinar - August 26, 2021
Japan has gained the global limelight thanks to the Tokyo Olympics, but did you know it is also Australia's second-largest export market?
On August 26, Queensland exporters gained a taste of the many opportunities available in the world's third-largest economy, at the QJCCI's Japan Agribusiness Webinar.
Attendees gained valuable insights into growing an SME business internationally thanks to Russell Gibbons, co-founder and CEO of Sunshine Coast-based pet food exporter, Huds and Toke.
Russell shared first-hand details on his export push into not only Japan but also Singapore, with the knowledge gained from the experience proving invaluable across all the company's operations.
From Tokyo, Austrade's Murray Spence gave the latest update on Japan and its agribusiness sector amid the coronavirus pandemic and Olympics.
He also highlighted Austrade's "Australian Food and Beverage Showcase Japan 2021," which offers the opportunity for Australian SMEs to promote their products directly to Japanese buyers and importers.
QJCCI Management Committee member, Anthony Fensom of Republic PR also gave a brief overview of the Japanese market and its opportunities for Australian businesses, as analysed by Trade and Investment Queensland.
The QJCCI wishes to thank both presenters together with Trade and Investment Queensland for its invaluable support.
For those who missed the event or wish to watch it again, a recording is available via this link:
https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/recording/7914148774555284495
Any further queries regarding the webinar and its contents can be directed to Anthony at .
Tokyo Olympics Networking - July 21, 2021, Brisbane
And the winner is....Brisbane!!
On a night when Brisbane was announced as host of the 2032 Olympics, the QJCCI hosted a highly successful networking event to mark the launch of the Tokyo Games.
Kindly hosted by Premium Member Hall Chadwick Qld at their excellent facilities in the Brisbane CBD, the July 21 event featured a range of VIPs including our very own Olympian!
Kazunari Tanaka, Consul-General of Japan in Brisbane noted the launch of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, which have put the international spotlight on Japan and its contribution to global sport and goodwill, particularly amid the global coronavirus pandemic.
However the audience was glued to the screen for news of the big announcement regarding the host of the 2032 Games. At around 6.30pm, IOC President Thomas Bach delivered the right outcome, saying: "The Games of the XXXVth Olympiad are awarded to Brisbane, Australia.”
Mr Tanaka welcomed the announcement, tweeting: "Congratulations! 2032 will show to the world how good Queensland is! And all the best to Aussie athletes, my compatriots and all participating athletes around the world for Tokyo 2020."
Japan Holidays' Judy Luxton, an Olympian, described her experiences as an Australian swimmer at the 1972 and 1976 Games, giving the audience a unique perspective on the global event.
A big thanks to QJCCI member, Adventure Day Trips, for contributing more fantastic door prizes for attendees.
Photos from the event are available on the QJCCI Facebook page.
Here's to a safe and successful Tokyo Games, as we look ahead to hosting the world at Brisbane 2032!
QJCCI Gold Coast Networking Event - May 25, 2021, Merrimac
The QJCCI returned to the Gold Coast in what was a fantastic evening of networking on May 25, hosted by QJCCI Premium Member, Chateraise Lakelands Golf Club at its superb facility at Merrimac.
Amid the golf club's magnificent surroundings, the large gathering from the Gold Coast's Qld-Japan community was treated to magnificent hospitality, including a wine tasting and other delicious products from Chateraise, a leading confectionary maker based in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan.
The QJCCI thanks our event partners JCCI Gold Coast, the Japan Community of Queensland, Japanese Society Gold Coast and Japan Tourism Gold Coast for contributing to what was an excellent turnout.
Among the VIP guests were Kazunari Tanaka, Consul-General of Japan in Brisbane and Deputy Consul-General Chieko Masuda; Yoshimi Kobayashi, Vice Chairman of Japan Tourism Gold Coast; Yukari Ando, President of Japanese Society Gold Coast Inc; Saku Sunakawa, President, JCCI Gold Coast; and Nao Hirano, President of the Japan Community of Qld.
A big thanks to QJCCI member, Adventure Day Trips, for arranging return transport from Brisbane for a number of attendees.
Photos from the event are available on the QJCCI Facebook page.
Judging by the feedback received, the QJCCI will be back on the coast again very soon!
Japan High Speed Rail - May 6, 2021, Brisbane
Japan's 'shinkanen' bullet trains are famous worldwide, transporting millions of people daily safely and efficiently at super-fast speeds.
With Australia's population growing and the approaching potential Brisbane Olympics 2032, could high-speed rail form part of this nation's future transport system?
Yoshikazu Nishida, General Manager, Central Japan Railway Co (JR Tokai) highlighted the potential for Australia at a fascinating presentation held on May 6 at the Brisbane Club.
Mr Nishida noted the extraordinary safety and efficiency of the Tokaido Shinkansen, with not a single injury or fatality since it commenced operation in 1964 and an average punctuality within 0.2 minutes per train.
Significantly, high-speed rail also offers environmental benefits, with energy consumption around one-eighth and carbon dioxide emissions one-twelfth of comparable air travel.
Having achieved a world record speed of 603 kilometres per hour in 2015 for its 'Superconducting Maglev,' JR Tokai aims to unite Tokyo, Nagoya and Osaka into a "super mega region" once its new maglev service is operational in 2027.
With overseas projects in Texas, USA and Taiwan, the company has demonstrated overseas experience, with Mr Nishida welcoming opportunities to support fast rail initiatives in Australia.
Among the attentive audience were VIP guests, Kazunari Tanaka, Consul-General of Japan in Brisbane and Deputy Consul-General Chieko Masuda; Deputy Speaker of Queensland Parliament, Joe Kelly MP; Steve Minnikin MP, Shadow Minister for Transport and Main Roads; and Cr Ryan Murphy, Chair of Brisbane City Council's Public and Active Transport Committee.
A big thanks to QJCCI member, Adventure Day Trips, for contributing another fantastic door prize.
Photos from the evening are available on the QJCCI Facebook page.
The QJCCI thanks Mr Nishida for his presentation and looks forward to welcoming him back to Brisbane again soon (hopefully on a high-speed train!).
QJCCI Shinnenkai New Year Celebration - February 24, 2021, Brisbane
QJCCI members and guests celebrated the Year of the Ox with another great 'shinnenkai' (new year networking) event on February 24, kindly hosted by QJCCI Premium Member, Hall Chadwick Qld.
Welcoming attendees, Japan Consul-General, Kazunari Tanaka noted recent advances in Queensland-Japan ties, including the rapidly developing hydrogen sector, as the relationship continues to strengthen.
QJCCI President Chris Whitecross welcomed new members and also paid special tribute to outgoing Deputy Consul-General, Takeshi Tanabe, who will return to Japan next month after a productive stay in Brisbane.
A big thank you to QJCCI member Monkey Tree Brewing for its excellent beer, cider and ginger beer, to Kabuki restaurant for the delicious food and also to Adventure Day Trips for providing a fantastic door prize, won by Double Black Hotel's Mark Dindas.
Photos from the event are available on the QJCCI Facebook page.
Here's to a safe and prosperous 2021 to all!
明けましておめでとうございます！ 今年も宜しくお願い致します。
QJCCI Bonenkai Year-End Celebration - December 3, 2020, Brisbane
After the events of 2020, the QJCCI was delighted to host this year's 'bonenkai' year-end networking on the evening of December 3 at the stunning riverside venue provided by QJCCI Premium member, Stamford Plaza Brisbane.
A near-record gathering celebrated the year-end and looked forward to a prosperous 2021, the year of the postponed Tokyo Olympics.
A big thank you to all members and guests who attended, including Japan Consul-General, Kazunari Tanaka, who shared his thoughts on a very productive year for Japan-Australia ties.
Congratulations to our door prize winners, with prizes very generously provided by QJCCI Premium Member, Dello Mano and Monkey Tree Brewing.
Photos from the event are available on the QJCCI Facebook page.
Stay tuned for details of the next QJCCI event!
In the meantime, please have a very safe and happy festive season - our very best wishes for a prosperous New Year!
QJCCI 2020 Annual General Meeting, October 15, 2020
The Queensland Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (QJCCI) would like to thank all those who attended last Thursday's Annual General Meeting (AGM), kindly hosted by QJCCI Premium Member, Hall Chadwick.
The event was also attended by Mr Kazunari Tanaka, Consul-General of Japan in Brisbane, together with Ms Harumi Narita, Consul.
Beverages were kindly supplied by new QJCCI member, Monkey Tree Brewing, with catering from Premium Member, Stamford Plaza Brisbane (Kabuki restaurant).
In his report, QJCCI President Chris Whitecross thanked members for their support despite the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. He noted the Chamber's initiative to effectively halve membership fees for fiscal 2021 had been well received by members.
Looking ahead, Mr Whitecross pointed to ongoing webinars and plans to extend the Chamber's activities further into regional Queensland, together with maintaining regular communication with the Queensland-Japan network.
"While there has been an absence of the usual networking events, we are very hopeful that, circumstances permitting, we will be able to hold our annual bonenkai networking event in early December," he said. (Please stay tuned for details!).
A newly elected QJCCI management committee for 2020-21 can be found via this link:
The QJCCI extends its best wishes to all members for a prosperous and peaceful year ahead, as we continue working to strengthen the Queensland-Japan relationship.
Export Strategies & Opportunities in Japan Post-COVID-19 for Agribusiness and Food Manufacturers, September 30, 2020
Japan is Australia's second-largest agricultural, forestry and fisheries market, offering a wealth of opportunities for agribusiness and food manufacturers.
And with free trade agreements such as the Japan-Australia Economic Partnership Agreement (JAEPA) and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), Australian exporters have never had a better opportunity to enter this lucrative market, where the majority of foods are imported.
On September 30, the QJCCI joined a webinar with the Chamber of Commerce & Industry Queensland (CCIQ) and Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ) - Japan to explore the benefits and opportunities emerging in a post-COVID-19 world to Australian farmers and agricultural producers (and downstream manufacturers) in the highly valuable Japanese market.
Further details regarding the event and its participants are available via this link.
What's Ahead for the Australian & Global Economy? Webinar with Griffith Business School's Economics Prof. Carmignani, August 26, 2020
2020 has seen the global coronavirus pandemic wreak a tragic toll on human lives as well as inflicting economic destruction, while the U.S.-China trade war and approaching U.S. presidential poll also threaten to cause more financial market volatility.
Locally, Australia has plunged into its first recession since the 1990s, while Japan, our second-largest trading partner, has tumbled into its worst downturn in decades.
Yet with a COVID-19 vaccine seemingly on the horizon, could better times lie ahead in 2021, the year of the (rescheduled) Tokyo Olympics?
On August 26, QJCCI members and guests were given an update on the latest economic conditions in Australia and Japan and the outlook for the year ahead via a webinar presentation by Fabrizio Carmignani, Dean (Academic) and Professor of Economics in the Griffith Business School, part of QJCCI Premium Member, Griffith University.
A lively discussion ensued in the Q&A section too, with questions ranging from the impact of Australia's domestic borders closing to how Australia and Japan might boost trade ties post-pandemic and whether Brisbane could become a global financial centre.
Polls conducted of attendees found "cautious optimism" to be the overriding sentiment for 2020/21, with most of those surveyed having suffered some impact from COVID-19.
For those who missed it, a recording of the event is available via this link.
The QJCCI thanks Griffith University and Professor Carmignani for the webinar, which was kindly hosted by QJCCI member, Republic PR
Positioning Yourself to be Successful in the Post-Pandemic Period: Life After Covid-19 - Webinar, April 16, 2020
How can businesses ride out the COVID-19 pandemic and position themselves to succeed once the crisis ends?
QJCCI Premium Members Hall Chadwick QLD and Macpherson Kelley offered valuable accounting and legal business insights on what steps businesses can take now to keep trading and, more importantly, to succeed in the post-pandemic period, in this interactive webinar held on April 16.
Presenters Michael Cameron of Hall Chadwick QLD and Mark Metzeling of Macpherson Kelley covered a range of important topics:
* Trading implications of COVID-19 for multinationals with Australian subsidiaries and for Australian entities (including FIRB, incoterms, regulatory requirements (TGA approval, compliance with ACL)
* Managing cash flow (including how to correctly prioritise payments)
* Considerations for effecting a stand down, or terminating employees
* Types of finance available to business, and how to obtain loans from the banks (including via government assistance initiatives)
* Restructure rather than restart – a look at what can be done now to enable a cost-effective restructure for your business in the post-pandemic period.
For those who missed it, a recording of the webinar is available via this link.
Helpful Resources & FAQs
For those seeking further information:
Hall Chadwick has a business support information page setting out information about financial assistance, eligibility and timing for government support.
Macpherson Kelley has also looked at what COVID-19 means for businesses and individuals and put together an extensive FAQ’s page on their website that includes their latest thinking and advice.
The QJCCI looks forward to bringing more such timely events to members and friends, during the shutdown imposed to contain the COVID-19 pandemic.
QJCCI, JCCIB & Virgin Australia - GOMA, March 12, 2020
The COVID-19 outbreak has had a devastating impact on Australia-Japan travel and the QJCCI sends its very best wishes to all those affected by recent events.
While travel between Queensland and Japan is currently severely curtailed, the QJCCI looks forward to a resumption of normal operations and a brighter future for all involved in this vital trade and tourism market.
On March 12, QJCCI Premium Member, Virgin Australia together with the QJCCI and the JCCIB celebrated the launch of Virgin's Brisbane-Tokyo (Haneda) service, the first such direct service operating between the Queensland capital and Haneda airport, located in the heart of the world's biggest city.
VIP guests including Qld Tourism Minister Kate Jones MP, Japan Consul-General Kazunari Tanaka, Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff and Virgin Australia's CCO John McLeod together with QJCCI President Chris Whitecross helped attendees mark the event at the superb riverside venue provided by GOMA.
With Queensland currently the top state in Australia for Japan inbound tourism and some 620,000 Australians visiting Japan last year (up 13%) the potential for increased tourism and trade is enormous, pending an end to the coronavirus crisis.
The QJCCI thanks all attendees for another great event and we look forward to catching up again very soon.
Photos from the evening are available at the QJCCI's Facebook page.
QJCCI Cocktail Reception - Shinnenkai 新年会: February 13, 2020
Happy New Year 2020 (明けましておめでとうございます) from the Queensland Japan Chamber of Commerce & Industry!
The QJCCI welcomed in the Year of the Rat with our traditional new year networking event on February 13, kindly hosted by QJCCI Premium Member Hall Chadwick in Brisbane.
With the Tokyo Olympics set to mark another memorable year for Japan, together with this year's 35th anniversary of the Brisbane-Kobe Sister City relationship, there was plenty for attendees to anticipate.
Another key topic was Virgin Australia's March launch of its Brisbane-Tokyo (Haneda) service, with attendees welcoming the boost to bilateral business and tourism ties.
The strength of the Australia-Japan relationship has also been demonstrated during the recent bushfire disasters, when Japan provided vital transport aircraft and personnel in recognition of Australia's support during Japan's 2011 disasters and other events.
In response to the crisis, the QJCCI will be donating a portion of ticket sales from the event to the Rural Fire Brigades Association Queensland (RFBAQ), supporting its efforts to protect rural Qld against bushfires.
For photos from the night, please visit the QJCCI Facebook page.