Japanese Business Glossary

相場精算 (sōba seisan) refers to the process of market settlement in Japanese. This term is often used in the context of financial markets and commodity trading to describe the process of finalizing and settling trades based on current market prices.

In market settlement, trades and contracts are adjusted to reflect the prevailing market conditions at the time of settlement. This includes calculating profits and losses based on the agreed-upon terms of the trade and the current market prices. Sōba seisan ensures that all parties involved in the transaction fulfill their financial obligations and that the trades are completed accurately and fairly.

This process is crucial for maintaining the integrity and stability of financial markets, ensuring that transactions are settled promptly and in accordance with market conditions.

寄附 (kifu) refers to a donation or contribution in Japanese. It is the act of giving money, goods, or services to a cause, organization, or individual without expecting anything in return. Donations can be made to various entities such as non-profit organizations, charities, educational institutions, religious groups, or community projects.

In Japan, donations may also be made through programs like ふるさと納税 (Furusato Nōzei), where individuals contribute to local municipalities and receive tax deductions and local specialty products in return. Donations are a common way for individuals and businesses to support causes they care about, contribute to societal well-being, and benefit from certain tax incentives.

税理士 (zeirishi) refers to a certified tax accountant in Japan. A zeirishi is a professional who specializes in tax law, accounting, and financial matters. They are licensed to provide services such as tax preparation, tax filing, tax planning, and financial consulting to individuals, businesses, and organizations.

The role of a zeirishi includes advising clients on tax-related issues, ensuring compliance with tax regulations, representing clients in tax audits, and helping with the overall financial management and strategy. To become a certified tax accountant in Japan, one must pass a rigorous national examination and meet specific qualifications and experience requirements. This profession is essential for maintaining accurate and compliant financial records, optimizing tax liabilities, and providing expert guidance on financial matters.

商品券 (shōhinken) refers to a gift certificate or gift card in Japanese. It is a prepaid card or voucher that can be used to purchase goods and services at specific stores or businesses. Shōhinken typically have a designated monetary value and can be redeemed within a specified period.

They are commonly given as gifts, promotional items, or rewards and are widely accepted at various retail outlets, restaurants, and service providers. Shōhinken offers flexibility and convenience for both the giver and the recipient, allowing the recipient to choose products or services according to their preferences.

歩合 (buai) refers to commission or performance-based pay in Japan. It is a variable component of an employee's salary that depends on their performance or results, such as sales figures or production output. This system incentivizes employees to perform better since their earnings are tied to their success. For instance, a sales employee might earn a percentage of the sales they generate, which is added to their base salary. Unlike fixed salaries, commissions vary each pay period based on performance metrics. The method of calculating and the frequency of payouts can differ by company. While there are no strict legal definitions distinguishing commissions from other forms of incentives in Japan, it is crucial to clearly define how commissions are calculated and paid to avoid disputes and ensure compliance with labor laws​

注文書 (chuumonsho) is a purchase order document issued by a buyer to a seller, indicating the products, quantities, and agreed prices for goods or services the seller will provide. It serves as an official confirmation of the purchase and details the terms and conditions under which the transaction will occur.

The process typically starts with the buyer requesting a quote from the seller. Once both parties agree on the terms, the buyer issues the purchase order, which includes specifics like the order number, date, item descriptions, quantities, prices, delivery dates, payment terms, and any other relevant information. The purchase order is then sent to the seller, who will fulfill the order as specified.

In addition to purchase orders, several related documents play a role in the purchasing and order fulfillment process. These include an acknowledgment receipt issued by the seller to confirm receipt and acceptance of the purchase order, a receipt issued by the buyer to confirm receipt of goods or services, a delivery note accompanying the goods, an inspection receipt confirming the goods meet specified criteria, an invoice requesting payment, and a receipt acknowledging payment received.

Understanding these documents is crucial for maintaining proper business records and ensuring smooth transactions.