JPRS Report, Science Technology, Japan, Survey Report on Research Activities inPrivate Enterprises

摘要

In recent years, Japan's rise as an economic power has been astounding, and itsinternational influence that is attendant upon that grows stronger. On the other hand, though, the international environment surrounding Japan has become increasingly more fierce, as shown in the trend of rising trade friction. In such a situation, an important issue for Japan is to endeavor to raise ST levels through continued strengthening of its basic research, and to aim for the creation of ST results that can become international contributions. In this the RD activities of private enterprises, which account for about three-fourths of the money used in Japan for research, become increasingly important. In recent years, many private enterprises--more so than in the past--are emphasizing RD activities. They are seen as playing an even greater role in raising the level of Japan's ST and in producing international research results. In this sense, the structure of private enterprises' RD and its changes are gaining attention.