There are numerous Japanese businesses operating in Europe, which
have created 440,000 jobs. A considerable number of these firms are
concentrated in the UK. Nearly half of Japanese direct investment intended for
the EU in 2015 flowed to the UK, and the UK was one of the major destinations
for Japan’s investment stock within the EU as of the end of last year. While
benefiting from the single market of the EU, Japanese businesses have
contributed to the development of the European economy. Since Europe
including the UK is a major trading partner and investment destination for
other countries in Asia as well as of Japan, it is in the common interest of all
Asian countries as a whole that they continue to have access to the free market
of Europe, including the UK. It is of great importance that the UK and the EU
maintain market integrity and remain attractive destinations for businesses
where free trade, unfettered investment and smooth financial transactions are
ensured. In light of the fact that a number of Japanese businesses, invited by
the Government in some cases, have invested actively to the UK, which was
seen to be a gateway to Europe, and have established value-chains across
Europe, we strongly request that the UK will consider this fact seriously and
respond in a responsible manner to minimise any harmful effects on these
businesses.