Why was japan able to become an economic powerhouse?

Answer 1

There are so many factors that have contributed to Japan's prosperity. Some of them include favorable political-legal environment, development of more industries, abundance of natural resource and so much more.

Answer 2

There're mainly 5 reasons making Japan so successful in its heavy industry,they are:

1.Improving technology

-Improving production technology

At the beginning when Japan first started to develop its industry,it imported production technology from western countries and was successfull in adapting and improving it.

-Improving of transport technology

In the 1950s,transport technology has been greatly improved.More efficient transportation methods have been introduced.Oil tankers and large container ships can carry a large quantity of goods.This reduces transport costs.

-Innovating new technology

~Use of high- tech machines

In car manufacturing industry, robots are used for welding and painting.High efficency means that production costs per unit is low.

~Use of substitute raw materials

Scrap irons which can be easily found in large cities can be used to substitute iron ore.

2.Improving labour productivity

Educationl level in Japan is generally high.Extensive vocational training is provided for employees too.High labour productivity is one of the reasons why Japan is so successful in developing its industry.

3.High investment in research and development(R&D)

Japan firms are willing to invest on plants,equipments,research and development(R&D).

4.Development trade

As Japan is lack of Natural Resources,it relies on import raw materials so it tried hard to keep good relationship with other countries to keep stable raw material supply,also to export manufactured goods to more oversea markets.

Profile of Japanese goods:

Item: Japanese cars and electrical appliances

Sold site:the USA,South-East Asia,Europe...

iron ore and coal imported from Australia,crude oil from the Middle East

5.Government policy

The government has set up External Trade Organisation(JETRO).In order to protect local manufactured goods,it restrict the export goods.It also promote its manufactured goods to other countries.The government has improved infrastructures,for instance building roads and providing electricity.It also provides taxation allowance and subesidy to Japanese firms.In order to develop manufacturing technologies, it sets up many research centre.Manufacturing Science and Technology Centre(MSTC) is an example.It's for promoting robots and automations,and solving common maufacturing problems,also help developing advanced manufacturing technologies.The MSTC also established the Intelligent Maufacturing System programme(IMS).

All the above measures help Japan manufacturing.