Structure and corporate relationships in the Japanese wool and wool textile industries

Abstract

This publication reports on a further aspect of the research programme of the Unit concerned with Japan - New Zealand trade. Its objective is to provide background on structure and inter-relationships in the Japanese wool and wool textile industries for the benefit of suppliers of wool such as New Zealand. The study is the first of a series on wool in Japan. Other research currently being undertaken includes an investigation of the change in competitive position of wool and synthetic fibres due to the world energy crisis and a study on stop/go Japanese economic activities and their effect on Japanese wool purchases. Extensive use has been made of Japanese language base material and in the course of his investigations Mr. Kitson has visited Japan twice. As some material is of specialized interest this has been incorporated as Appendices rather than in the text. In addition further data of this type are available as Supplementary Appendices on request to Mr. Kitson. We have pleasure in acknowledging financial support from the N.Z. Wool Board to assist carrying out of the studies.