日本のものづくりは復活する

日本のものづくりは、復活すると信じています。TSMCの熊本県進出。ラピダスの北海道での設立。さらには、政府が経済安全保障に注力し、今までは海外から輸入していたものも、日本国内で製造する方針があります。

日本の賃金が、外国と比較して相対的に下がったことも大きいです。90年代、日本の賃金は東南アジアや中国と比較して高かったため、組立工程の工場などがどんどん海外へ移転していきました。しかし、良いのか悪いのか、日本の賃金は約20年間上がりませんでした。さらに、円安がこの傾向に拍車をかけています。むしろ、物流費を考えたら「日本のほうが安い」場合もあるでしょう。

もちろん、課題もあります。まず第一は、人手不足です。工場で働く人がどんどん減少していきます。次いで、電気代や原料価格の高騰です。円安のため、コストアップになっています。

それでも、日本のものづくり復活は必ず達成できる、そう信じています。ロボットなどの自動化を推進していくのです。理系・技術者育成のための教育改革も必要だと思います（私は文系ですが）。

The Revival of Japanese Manufacturing

In recent years, there has been a growing discussion about the revival of Japanese manufacturing. Some experts believe that Japan has the potential to regain its position as a leading manufacturing power, while others are more skeptical.

There are several factors that could contribute to the revival of Japanese manufacturing. One factor is the increasing number of foreign companies that are setting up manufacturing operations in Japan. These companies are attracted to Japan's skilled workforce, advanced technology, and strong supply chains.

Another factor is the relative decline in Japanese wages. In the 1990s, Japanese wages were relatively high compared to wages in other countries, which led to the outsourcing of many manufacturing jobs to lower-cost countries. However, Japanese wages have been relatively stagnant for the past two decades, making Japan a more competitive manufacturing location.
The depreciation of the Japanese yen is also a factor that could support the revival of Japanese manufacturing. The weaker yen makes Japanese products more competitive on the global market, making it more attractive for companies to manufacture their products in Japan.

However, there are also some challenges that Japan will need to overcome in order to revive its manufacturing industry. One challenge is the shortage of skilled labor. Japan's aging population is leading to a decline in the country's workforce, and this is particularly true in the manufacturing sector.
Another challenge is the rising cost of energy and raw materials. The depreciation of the yen has led to higher energy and raw material prices, which could increase the cost of manufacturing in Japan.

Despite these challenges, there are reasons to be optimistic about the future of Japanese manufacturing. The government is taking steps to support the industry, and companies are investing in new technologies and automation. If Japan can overcome the challenges it faces, the country has the potential to regain its position as a leading manufacturing power.
Here are some specific suggestions for how Japan can revive its manufacturing industry:

• Focus on high-value-added manufacturing. Japan should focus on manufacturing products that require high levels of skill and technology. This will help to offset the impact of the rising cost of labor and the shortage of skilled workers.

• Invest in research and development. Japan needs to continue to invest in research and development in order to stay ahead of the competition. This will help to ensure that Japan is producing the most innovative products and services.

• Promote international cooperation. Japan should work with other countries to develop new supply chains and trade agreements. This will help to reduce the country's reliance on imported raw materials and components.

By taking these steps, Japan can create a more competitive manufacturing environment and position itself for long-term growth.