Osaka Earthquake and disaster preparedness

A message from the BCCJ President

The magnitude 6 earthquake that struck North Osaka at 08:00hrs this morning (June 18), resulted in transport disruption, property damage and a significant number of injuries. News channels have also reported three fatalities. On behalf of the British Chamber of Commerce in Japan (BCCJ), I would like to express our condolences to those who have suffered loss, and we wish for the safety and security of the people of Osaka as they deal with aftershocks in the immediate post-earthquake period.

After accounting for the safety of employees and families, BCCJ member firms with facilities in the affected area will be looking to stabilize operations, and implement business continuity plans. In line with guidance from the UK’s Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) we urge people to follow the advice of local authorities, and monitor local news. Further guidance and updates can be found on the British Embassy’s Twitter feed @UKinJapan and on the Japan pages of the FCO’s website https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/japan.

At this difficult time of loss and disruption, we encourage all BCCJ members to reflect on how they can best ensure the safety of their people across Japan, through clear and careful planning and preparedness.

Osaka and the wider Kansai region is part of the commercial and industrial heartland of the country – and I am convinced they will leave us in no doubt of this fact with their tenacious determination to rapidly return to life, and to business, as normal.

David Bickle
BCCJ President