Message from the Chairman
Welcome to the Japan Economic Foundation (JEF) website.
My name is Hideichi Okada, and I have recently assumed the position of Chairman & CEO of Japan Economic Foundation (JEF).
JEF was established in 1981 as an organization dedicated to communicating Japan's perspectives and realities to the international community.
At that time, Japan was recording a large trade surplus with the United States, which led to serious trade frictions. When relations between countries become closer, conflicts of interest inevitably arise. In such moments, it becomes essential to deepen mutual understanding through dialogue and exchange, and to seek constructive solutions. JEF was founded with this mission in mind.
Today, JEF conducts a wide range of activities, including economic forums and dialogues focusing on various regions of the world, and the publication of a bimonthly English-language electronic journal that provides insights into the current state of the Japanese and global economies. This year marks the 45th anniversary of our establishment.
The trade-related challenges Japan faced with other countries at the time of JEF's founding have gradually moved toward resolution over the years. During this period, the WTO was created, regional economic integration advanced, and many free trade agreements were concluded. However, the rules-based free trade system that has been built up over time - and the international supply chains that rest upon it - now face significant challenges. Russia's invasion of Ukraine, as well as the conflicts involving the US, Israel, and Iran, have further intensified this turmoil.
In a speech at the Davos Conference in January 2021, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney referred to the possibility of "middle powers" joining forces to forge a third path for the international order. The countries participating in recent discussions on restoring a rules-based trade system through cooperation between the CPTPP and the EU are precisely these middle powers. JEF intends to actively engage in such efforts.
As economic interdependence among nations deepens through trade and investment, the importance of economic security has reached unprecedented levels. Trade and investment are no longer viewed solely as economic matters; they are increasingly recognized as issues directly linked to national security. Moreover, the rapid development of AI is having immeasurable impacts on these dynamics.
There is a growing need to create new rules that reconcile trade and security, and to establish a reliable framework for the free flow of data amid the rapid evolution of AI. The international economic system must be revitalized and strengthened. In addition, global challenges such as widening income disparities - both within and between countries - worsening energy and environmental issues, and aging populations continue to mount as constraints on growth. How we confront and overcome these emerging risks is a critical question. JEF will continue to engage in discussions with experts around the world and share the outcomes through our website and other channels. We will also work to create platforms for dialogue and exchange.
We sincerely hope that you will remain actively engaged with JEF and make full use of our resources. By closely following developments in the international economic system, we hope our activities and insights will support your decision-making in business, policy, and other fields.
July 1, 2026
Hideichi Okada
Chairman & CEO
Japan Economic Foundation (JEF)