Economy:** 経済 (keizai)

 

1. Today's Japanese words

Here are some basic Japanese vocabulary words related to the economy, along with their romaji pronunciation:

* **Economy:** 経済 (keizai)

* **Money:** お金 (okane)

* **Company:** 会社 (kaisha)

* **Job:** 仕事 (shigoto)

* **Salary:** 給料 (kyuryo)

* **Price:** 値段 ( nedan)

* **Tax:** 税金 (zei kin)

* **Market:** 市場 (ichiba)

* **Investment:** 投資 (toshi)

* **Growth:** 成長 (seichō)

* **Inflation:** インフレ (infure)

* **Deflation:** デフレ (defure)

* **Debt:** 借金 (shakkin)

2. Today's topic

The Japanese economy after World War II was a story of remarkable transformation, rising from the ashes of devastation to become one of the world's leading economic powers. 

**From devastation to recovery (1945-1950s):**

* **Utter destruction:** The war left Japan's cities in ruins, its industries crippled, and its people facing food shortages and hyperinflation.

* **Allied occupation:** The Allied occupation, led by the United States, implemented economic reforms aimed at demilitarization, democratization, and reviving the economy.

* **Dodge Plan:** This 1949 program stabilized the currency, curbed inflation, and encouraged exports, laying the foundation for growth.

**The era of rapid growth (1960s-1970s):**

* **Japanese miracle:** Japan's economy soared, fueled by factors like government-business cooperation, export-oriented industries, and a highly skilled workforce.

* **Growth engines:** Key sectors like steel, shipbuilding, and automobiles boomed, making Japan a global manufacturing powerhouse.

**Challenges and transitions (1980s-present):**

* **The Plaza Accord (1985):** This agreement led to a sharp appreciation of the yen, making exports less competitive and triggering a slowdown.

* **The "Lost Decades":** Slow growth, asset price bubbles, and financial crises plagued the Japanese economy for much of the 1990s and 2000s.

* **Present day:** Japan faces challenges like an aging population, deflation, and global competition, but it remains a major economic player with advanced technology and a focus on innovation.

3- Today’s news

Japan’s GDP falls behind Germany to fourth place amid weak yen

https://www.asahi.com/sp/ajw/articles/15168705

Kishida, Yoon may see Ohtani debut during Seoul summit

https://www.asahi.com/sp/ajw/articles/15166425