APIC ’12: Japan petchems calls for continuity plans to be in place

18 May 2012 06:14  [Source: ICIS news]

KUALA LUMPUR (ICIS)--Japan Petrochemical Industry Association (JPCA) on Friday told the industry that it was crucial to have business continuity plans to be in place in order to prepare for natural disasters.

The trade body’s chairman, Kyohei Takahashi, said it was important to have ready alternative means of supplies so any affected capabilities can be restored as quickly as possible.

He said the major natural disasters, including the earthquake and tsunami in Japan in March 2011, and more recently, the flood in Thailand, significantly affected the supply chain on a global scale.

“They gave us violent reminders that the world is so integrated in the economic and industrial senses that a disruption in a piece of supply chain would cause a systematic halt to all activities, and how much important for us is to prepare for the unexpected,” he said.

“I believe that it will not only gain credibility from our business partners, but also increase value of our businesses,” he added.

Takahashi said that Japan was on the course of recovery from the March disaster, as reconstruction is gathering pace.

“Economic and industrial activities, taken as a whole, are also regaining strength. Domestic demand is picking up owing to public procurement programs for reconstruction and the increase in household spending,” he said.

“In addition, exports are expected to increase as adjustment of overhauled Japanese yen takes place, and the world economy gradually improves,” Takahashi added.

He was speaking at the 34th annual Asia Petrochemicals Industry Conference (APIC) being held in Kuala Lumpur on 17-18 May.

By: Franco Capaldo
+44 (0)20 8652 3214

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