325-310 The Japanese Business System

The completion of at least 125 points of commerce subjects or any of the optional level-2 or level-3 subjects listed in the Asian studies program in the Faculty of Arts.

This subject provides an introduction to Japan's postwar economic 'miracle', the 'bubble' of the late-1980s and causes of subsequent prolonged stagnation, with particular attention to the institutions of business and government. Topics include globalisational structural change, the organisation of big business, including keiretsu relationships and the role of the trading houses, and of small business, including subcontracting ties; financial markets and labour markets for both large and small firms; industrial policy and the role of technology; consumer markets; and government-business relationships and cultural aspects of the business environment.

A 2-hour end-of- semester examination (50%) and tutorial participation, essay and outline totalling no more than 3000 words (50%).

• The Japanese Business System, Tutorial Readings. (details from the department).