Research Summary
Research Summary
Self-Regulation by Japanese Trade Associations
Description
Ulrike Schaede has recently finished a book manuscript on Japanese trade associations. As a results of recent deregulation and the recession of the 1990s, Japanese industries are assuming increasingly important regulatory functions. They do this through autonomous "self-regulation" setting and enforcing the rules of trade through trade associations. The study is based on a detailed analysis of Japan's antitrust system, as well as extensive data analysis of the activities of trade associations in Japan. The study concludes that increasing self-regulation renders deregulation programs ineffective in opening Japanese markets and reduces the efficacy of trade negotiations.