Japan firms uphold diversity amid U.S. policy shifts: Reuters survey
TOKYO, JAPAN — Japanese businesses are unwavering in their support of workplace diversity even if American diversity policies are changing.
According to a recent Reuters survey, around 80% of Japanese companies vow to keep their efforts in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), undeterred by the policy changes under the current administration of U.S. President Donald Trump.
“DEI is a global trend. We don’t see it necessary to change our direction just because one country’s president is against it,” a manager from a machinery manufacturing firm said.
“It is important to manage a company in a way that is fair to everyone regardless of race or gender.”
Contrasting global corporate responses
Among the big companies that back off their DEI pledges following Trump’s election are Accenture, Meta, Alphabet, Amazon, Walmart, and Lowe’s. Issuing executive orders to eradicate government DEI programs, the U.S. president has attacked these programs as “absolute nonsense” and discriminating.
Nonetheless, polls reveal that DEI programs are turning out to be effective instruments for boosting productivity and keeping talent in the company.
Responding to these changes, Costco, Apple, HSBC, and Deutsche Bank, and JPMorgan Chase continue to advocate for diversity and inclusion globally.
Environmental and financial resolve
The poll also emphasized how most Japanese businesses are dedicated not only to diversity but also to environmental sustainability. Despite President Trump’s pro-fossil fuel stance, around 84% of the companies intend to stick to their decarbonization measures.
Aiming to achieve its energy independence and lower greenhouse gas emissions, Japan—highly dependent on imported energy—depends on this commitment. Coping with the demographic challenges and labor shortages facing the nation depends on ongoing commitment to these projects, so this is considered as important.
Outlook on currency and profitability
Financially, Japanese firms have mixed expectations for the fiscal year 2025. About 36% of the surveyed companies expect a profit improvement, attributing this optimism to stronger local demand.
On the other hand, 20% anticipate a drop because of growing expenses and outside economic challenges, including possible U.S. vehicle tariffs and economic slowdowns in key markets including China.
“Costs are on the rise across the board. We cannot pass them all onto selling prices,” an official from a food company explained. Reflecting general market attitudes and economic forecasts, most envision the yen trading between 140 and 150 yen to the dollar.
Conducted by Nikkei Research for Reuters between March 5 and 14, this poll included 505 businesses, 225 of which responded under anonymity.
