I would like to wish everyone a happy New Year and express my sincere gratitude for the understanding and support we have received in regard to the JICPA's activities.
Turning Change into Opportunity
As we enter 2026, we find ourselves at a major turning point. Our world is being reshaped by the progress of AI and digital technologies, changes in the international order, and the trend toward a sustainable society. These shifts are bringing about significant transformations in companies and society. I view these changes not as a threat, but as an opportunity to help shape the future. When I assumed the position of Chairman and President, I set out a vision: "Building trust to create a society that empowers the next generation." This reflects my strong belief that certified public accountants should build a foundation of trust in society to create a future where younger generations can work with ambition and pride. To make this vision a reality, the JICPA will focus its efforts on addressing priority issues in the year ahead.
Enhancing the Reliability and Attractiveness of Audits
Auditing forms the core of the work of certified public accountants and is essential for ensuring trust in the capital markets. We will continue to create an environment conducive to institutional reform and operational efficiency, so that auditors can clearly recognize and take pride in the way their work contributes to enhancing long-term corporate value and ensuring public and market confidence. Small and medium-sized audit firms are playing an increasingly important role as auditors of listed companies. We will support these firms in using IT and AI, as well as in disclosing information, and lead efforts to strengthen management foundations and improve audit quality.
Contributing to Solving Societal Issues
In the 2026 ordinary session of the Diet, the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act is scheduled to be revised with a view to institutionalizing the disclosure and assurance of sustainability information. Building on the expertise we have gained through auditing, we will work on institutional design, professional development, and quality assurance so that certified public accountants can play a central role in assurance engagements. Furthermore, we will provide strong support for our members as they contribute to addressing a wide range of public and market needs, including taxation, consulting, service as outside directors, and support for small- and medium-sized enterprises.
A Year for Turning Challenges into Strength
According to the East Asian sexagenary calendar, 2026 is the Year of the Fire Horse. The Fire Horse symbolizes passion and dynamism, and carries the connotation of boldly advancing without fear of challenge. This brings to mind the famous interpretation of Darwin words, which says that it is not the strongest that survives, nor the most intelligent, but the most adaptable to change. The Fire Horse of 2026 is a fitting symbol for a year in which our reforms carry us into a new stage of development. The certified public accountant profession must build trust and offer greater value while adapting to the new realities. Viewing change as not a threat, but as an opportunity to take on challenges and grow, we aim to make 2026 a year of energetic progress. I sincerely hope that 2026 will see a further increase in the value of certified public accountants, and mark a step toward building trust to create a society where the next generation can excel.
Minami Naruhito