Japan–Western Cultural Differences Ver13 “Western Bonus vs Japanese Bonus – part2” In the previous article (Ver12), I explained the structural differences between Western-style bonuses and Japanese bonuses. Here are several additional points summarized in a simple Q&A format.

Foreign companies often assume a foreign Representative Director is acceptable, but Japan’s Construction Business License requires a locally based Responsible Management Officer with proven decision‑making authority. Misunderstanding this national–prefectural regulatory gap creates serious operational risks for foreign subsidiaries.

European HQ mandated an urgent shift to BEVs for SBTi compliance, but Japan’s field operations could not support BEV use. This ideological–operational gap created major misalignment, requiring a practical compromise to protect service quality.