A Reuters survey conducted by Nikkei Research has found that 43% of Japanese companies believe a Kamala Harris presidency would be better for their business compared to a second term for Donald Trump, with only 8% favoring Trump. Concerns about protectionism and policy unpredictability under Trump were prominent, with 34% of firms indicating they might need to review their foreign exchange strategy, and 28% considering supply chain realignments if he were to win.
The survey also revealed that 46% of companies would be fine with either candidate, while 3% expressed a preference for neither. A ceramics manufacturer noted the potential for trade wars and economic friction under Trump, which could force strategic changes. Meanwhile, Harris was seen as offering policy stability, with one chemicals firm highlighting the benefit of maintaining current policies.
The survey, which reached out to 506 companies between July 31 and August 9, received responses from 243 firms. In addition, the findings showed that 13% of Japanese companies are considering reducing their operations in China due to economic and security concerns, following the footsteps of major firms like Honda Motor and Nippon Steel. These insights underscore the significant impact the U.S. presidential election could have on Japanese business strategies.
