(Bloomberg):Shigeru Ishiba, who was elected as the new president of the Liberal Democratic Party in the presidential election held on the 27th, was immediately voiced with expectations and requests from the heads of domestic business organizations.

In a statement released after the presidential election, Keidanren Chairman Masakazu Tokura (Sumitomo Chemical Chairman) praised him as “a leader worthy of promoting change” at a time when there are many challenges both domestically and internationally. He expressed hope for the promotion of energy policies that make maximum use of nuclear power and the construction of a fair, equitable, and sustainable social security system for all generations that eliminates concerns about the future.

Ken Kobayashi, president of the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (advisor to Mitsubishi Corporation), said he hopes that Mr. Ishiba will be able to run a stable government, and that he will continue to work tirelessly to completely break away from the deflationary economy that has lasted more than 30 years and transition to a growth-oriented economy. He has made it clear in writing that he wants them to approach the matter with the same determination.

Mr. Kobayashi has high hopes for a strong growth strategy that will further draw out the potential of the region and the private sector, but also emphasizes that a stable and inexpensive energy supply is essential. Although he expressed his understanding of Ishiba’s desire to raise the minimum wage, he said he would like to see consideration given to local regions’ ability to pay so that “nothing breaks.” He hoped that he would demonstrate strong leadership in the diplomatic field as well.

Tsuyoshi Niinami, representative secretary of the Japan Association of Corporate Executives (President of Suntory Holdings), is promoting economic and fiscal policies in light of the shift to inflation, reform of the labor market and social security system appropriate for modern society, and economic security in preparation for rising geopolitical risks. He cited security and a stable supply of energy in view of the progress of digitalization as important issues. They also called for a rigorous examination of the effects of fiscal spending to date, including in the defense field, which Ishiba is said to be knowledgeable about.

Meanwhile, Kansai Economic Federation Chairman Masayoshi Matsumoto (Sumitomo Electric Industries Chairman) requested support for the Osaka Expo scheduled for next year. He said he would like to see the government develop policies to achieve carbon neutrality and economic growth at the same time, including the stable and maximum use of nuclear power.

Regarding individual companies, Canon Chairman Fujio Mitarai made comments such as asking for a “National Unity Cabinet” to be established with Ishiba at the center, and to implement policies that protect national interests in both domestic and foreign affairs.

(Updated with comments from heads of other organizations such as Keidanren)

–Interview cooperation: Yuki Furukawa.

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