Japanese Business Glossary

利益供与 (rieki kyoyo) refers to the provision of benefits or advantages in Japan. This term is often used in legal and business contexts to describe the act of giving financial or other types of benefits to another party, usually with the expectation of receiving some form of favor or advantage in return.

In legal terms, rieki kyoyo can be associated with unethical or illegal activities such as bribery or corruption, where benefits are provided to influence the actions or decisions of the recipient. It can involve money, gifts, services, or any other form of benefit that is intended to gain favor or influence.

Understanding and addressing rieki kyoyo is important for maintaining ethical standards and compliance with laws and regulations, especially in business and government operations.

電子帳票システム (denshi chohyo shisutemu) refers to an electronic document management system in Japan. This system is used to create, store, manage, and distribute electronic forms and documents, according to the Electronic Bookkeeping Act, replacing traditional paper-based processes.

The electronic document management system streamlines administrative tasks, enhances efficiency, and improves accuracy by automating the handling of various documents, such as invoices, purchase orders, and reports. It often includes features like digital signatures, secure storage, and easy retrieval of documents, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

By adopting an electronic document management system, businesses can reduce costs associated with paper, printing, and storage, while also minimizing the risk of errors and enhancing data security. This system is particularly valuable in improving workflow, facilitating better data management, and supporting the digital transformation of business operations.

債権 (saiken) refers to a claim or receivable in Japan. This term describes the right of a creditor to receive a specific payment or performance of an obligation from a debtor. Essentially, it represents a financial asset for the creditor and a liability for the debtor.

In a business context, saiken can include various types of receivables, such as accounts receivable from customers, loans, bonds, or any other financial claims. For example, when a company sells goods or services on credit, the amount owed by the customer becomes a saiken for the company.

The management of claims is crucial for maintaining healthy cash flow and ensuring that the business can meet its financial obligations. Properly managing and collecting these receivables helps in optimizing the company's financial health and operational efficiency.

所得金額 (shotoku kingaku) refers to the amount of income or income amount in Japan after business expenses have been removed. This term is commonly used in tax and financial contexts to denote the total income that an individual or business earns before any deductions, such as taxes or social security contributions.

Calculating the correct shotoku kingaku is essential for accurate tax reporting and compliance with tax regulations. This amount forms the basis for various tax calculations and assessments, impacting the final tax amount that needs to be paid or refunded.

厚生費 (koseihi) refers to welfare expenses or employee welfare costs in Japan. These expenses are related to the well-being and benefits provided to employees by their employer and are part of the overall personnel costs for a company.

Koseihi can include expenses such as health and safety measures, employee recreational activities, company-sponsored events and social gatherings, subsidies for meals, transportation, and housing, health insurance premiums, and retirement benefits and pension contributions.

These expenses aim to improve the quality of life for employees, promote a healthy and supportive work environment, and enhance employee satisfaction and motivation. By investing in koseihi, companies can foster better employee relations, reduce turnover, and ultimately increase productivity.

償却資産 (shokyaku shisan) refers to depreciable assets in Japan. These are tangible fixed assets used in business operations that lose value over time due to wear and tear, usage, or obsolescence. Examples include machinery, equipment, vehicles, buildings, and furniture.

The cost of these assets is gradually expensed through depreciation, spreading the expense over the useful life of the asset. This process reflects the asset's decreasing value and allocates the cost as an expense against the revenue it helps generate.

Depreciation of assets is crucial for accurate financial reporting and tax purposes, ensuring that the financial statements reflect the true value and usage of the assets. Properly managing and accounting for these assets allows businesses to benefit from tax deductions, optimize their financial performance, and maintain compliance with accounting standards and tax regulations.