Japanese Auto Executive Akio Toyoda Discusses Japanese Political Administration

In a press conference held at Suzuka Circuit on September 18, Akio Toyoda, President of Toyota, donned his driving suit to address the nation's current situation and express his expectations for political leadership.

Despite the ongoing focus on events such as the LDP presidential election and the Olympics, Toyoda emphasised that the reality for the nation's people has not changed. Many are still enduring hardships such as job losses and company closures. Toyoda did not expect politicians to have all the right answers, but rather to create a country where hardworking people can feel that the future will be better.

Toyoda expressed his concerns about the use of phrases like "investing in the future" and "growth industries" as sound bites, and looked forward to nation-building for a new future that respects the values and work of the past and present. He criticized the current system, stating that it is difficult for all involved to move together as one, and suggested a more national, cross-functional form.

Toyoda also referenced the SDGs' core philosophy of creating a society in which "no one is left behind". He believes that Japan's challenges today, including the COVID-19 pandemic, carbon neutrality, and digitalization, need to be addressed on a national, cross-functional level.

During the press conference, Akio was asked about the ongoing LDP presidential election in Japan, but he did not comment on the matter. The press conference took place before Round 5 of the Super Taikyu Series 2021, but Toyota did not mention the event in his speech.

Akio did not express his thoughts about the current situation in Japan or his expectations for political leadership in the initial paragraph, nor did he mention the hydrogen-powered engine development or the Super Taikyu Series 2021 in this paragraph.

Toyoda, who has often made statements regarding Japan's economic policy, typically advocates for a stable and business-friendly government policy that promotes innovative technologies and supports sustainable economic development. In this press conference, he emphasised the need for stable economic policy, the promotion of innovations, international competitiveness, and a green deal and sustainability.

For more specific information about Akio Toyoda's statements in this context, it would be helpful to consult current news or press releases.