Looks at what stood behind the post-WWII Japanese economic miracle and the reasons why these factors led the Japanese economy into a slump in later years.
In an effort to make some sense of the confusion, this paper will look at a variety of factors behind Japan’s cycle of success to depression, ranging from Japanese management techniques to the unique roles played by government development agencies, such as the renowned Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI). In the final analysis, it seems clear that these institutions surely did play an important role in creating a successful Japan. However, the very forces that before worked to strengthen the economic position of the country ultimately led to its demise. Export orientation and domestic protection spelled success in booming post-war years; but they now reveal an inflexible economy, inefficient industries, sloppy habits, and portend a long and severe economic crisis.