Cyber threats, supply chain vulnerabilities, and currency fluctuations are emerging as the most significant risks for Japanese corporations, according to the latest findings from Aon plc’s 2025 Global Risk Management Survey. The survey highlights that, alongside these digital and economic exposures, Japanese businesses remain acutely aware of natural catastrophes and product liability risks, reflecting the country’s unique industrial and environmental landscape.
The survey gathered insights from nearly 3,000 risk managers, C-suite executives, and senior business leaders across 63 countries, providing a comprehensive view of global and regional risk perceptions. For Japan, the data underscores a risk environment heavily influenced by digitalisation, international trade, and shifting geopolitical dynamics.
Unsurprisingly, “Cyber Attacks/Data Breach” ranks as the top business risk for Japanese organisations, mirroring global trends. As companies increasingly rely on digital platforms and interconnected systems, the potential impact of cyber incidents—ranging from operational disruption to reputational damage—continues to rise. Close behind, “Supply Chain or Distribution Failure” occupies the second spot, reflecting mounting concerns over the fragility of logistics networks. Japanese firms are particularly sensitive to how geopolitical tensions, extreme weather events, and evolving policy frameworks could disrupt production, inventory management, and delivery schedules.
Financial and liability risks also feature prominently. “Product Liability/Recall” remains a significant concern, consistent with Japan’s position as a major manufacturing hub in global value chains. Similarly, “Exchange Rate Fluctuation” is identified as a key threat, highlighting the exposure of export-oriented businesses to volatile currency markets. The survey reveals that 63.6% of respondents in Japan have experienced losses linked to product liability or recall events, while 47.6% reported financial impacts stemming from exchange rate movements.
Overall, the survey paints a portrait of Japanese corporates navigating a complex risk landscape, where digital, operational, and economic pressures converge. The findings suggest that organisations must adopt a holistic risk management approach—balancing technological resilience, supply chain agility, and financial hedging strategies—to safeguard business continuity and competitiveness in an increasingly interconnected and unpredictable global market.