The Japanese Transformer Industry a Case Study of Its Competitiveness

Transformers are one type of magnetic component used in relevant structures like power Switch supplies. Transformers are the necessary parts in all products involving electricity, for the alteration of current voltage during the processes of power generation, transformation, transmission and distribution .Relevant discussions in Japan concerning transformers have centered on power industries and power systems. Transformers for household and business use are mostly categorized under electronics-related industry, one of the ten major consumer electronics industries (most of the mare middle and small-sized firms).Relevant literatures primarily focus on the study of related technology, with little attention paid to the competitive edge and future prospects of transformer-related industries. Case studies indicate that Japanese enterprises are disappointed with the governmental efforts and assistance directed to the improvement of existing technologies. As the executive director of one of the transformer associations in Japan pointed out, no advancement has been shown in this technology for nearly the last 20years.Most companies can improve themselves only in reaction to errors; the lack of specialized knowledge derived from research strongly decreases the industry's progressive power and postpones its development. Japan has lagged considerably behind Europe and the US in this aspect. The transformer companies in Japan will have great difficulty in cultural and language communication if they invest in foreign countries. In this study, experts and scholars in the fields of industry, government and academia are interviewed. Questionnaires are issued to the object companies and a comparative case study is conducted to analyze the influencing factors on the competitive edge and strategies in Japan in the hope that an effective reference for improving industrial competitiveness can be available for the government and the companies.