Greetings from the Chairperson

Greetings from the Chairperson

We are navigating unprecedented changes, including the pandemic and its societal impacts, escalating geopolitical uncertainties, evolving global financial policies, economic fluctuations, demographic shifts, and the rapid advancement of generative AI. The Japanese healthcare system is also in need of transformation. Innovation is key to adapting to these constant changes and paving the way for a brighter future. We can achieve this through fostering partnerships among diverse individuals and organizations.

At AMDD, the trade association for companies providing medical devices, medical technologies, and In vitro diagnostics in Japan, we are committed to collaborating with the Japanese and U.S. governments, related industry organizations, academic societies, and many more stakeholders to create a society where people can live healthier and happier lives amidst rapid environmental changes.

In Japan, which is experiencing rapid aging ahead of the rest of the world, AMDD aims to realize Value-Based Healthcare to contribute to both high-quality medical care and sustainable healthcare financing.

Innovation in medical devices and medical technology brings a variety of values, including extending healthy life expectancy, improving quality of life and patient satisfaction, and balancing medical care quality and economic efficiency. We aim for a society where innovation is properly evaluated, and high-value technology is brought to Japan without any “device loss”. This will enable healthcare providers to choose the best medical technology and offer appropriate options to patients.

While there is room for improvement in health literacy among Japanese people when compared internationally, there is a trend to value "healthy life expectancy" more than overall life expectancy. This indicates a path forward where Japanese people can become more proactive in their own health and medical care, leading to better choices in their actions and, ultimately, a better life and society.

In this era of a 100-year life, we are committed to driving innovation and nurturing partnerships with our stakeholders. Our aim is to shape the future of healthcare in Japan, fostering a society where individuals can live with Ikigai, a sense of purpose, make appropriate choices for a healthy and happy life, and contribute to the development of the Japanese economy. We sincerely appreciate our continued partnership.

March 2024

Takanao Tamai
Chairperson, American Medical Devices and Diagnostics Manufacturers’ Association (AMDD)
President, Johnson & Johnson K.K. and Johnson & Johnson K.K. Medical Company