Keiretsu Divergence in the Japanese Automotive Industry

Akira Takeishi and Yoshihisa Noro
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Akira Takeishi: Kyoto University
Yoshihisa Noro: Mitsubishi Research Institute, Inc.

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Abstract: The keiretsu relationship in the Japanese automotive industry was once admired as a source of competitive advantage. Yet, after the collapse of the bubble economy, arguments emerged that keiretsu was instead a source of weakness and its role had ended; in fact, some automakers dismantled their keiretsu relationships. Meanwhile, however, other automakers have maintained these relationships, and as such, discussions continue regarding whether or not keiretsu contributes to competitive advantage. In this study, we analyze some empirical data in order to explore the changes to keiretsu relationships in the Japanese automotive industry, and the reasons behind these changes. We propose that there are two types of keiretsu relationships, inward and outward keiretsu, where the former type is likely to be dismantled and the latter to be maintained. Future research agenda are also presented.

Keywords: Keiretsu; Inter-firm Relation; Competitive Advantage; Divergence; Automotive Industry (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2017-08-02
Note: View the original document on HAL open archive server: https://hal.science/hal-02952225
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