Report on the Diversity Session during the Taiwan Survey and Exchange Tour

As part of the “Taiwan MICE Survey and Exchange Tour” organized by JCMA’s International Exchange Promotion Committee, the JCMA Diversity Committee hosted a special panel discussion focused on exploring diversity within the MICE industries of Japan and Taiwan.

Theme: Diversity of the MICE Industry in Japan and Taiwan
Date: Thursday, February 27, 15:55–17:15 (80 minutes)
Venue: International Convention Center Tainan (ICC Tainan)
Participants: Representatives from JCMA (including the Japan Tourism Agency) and key members of Taiwan’s MICE industry

＜Session Overview＞
■ Part 1: Survey Report on Diversity Awareness in Japan’s MICE Industry
The session began with a presentation of the results of a diversity awareness survey conducted within the Japanese MICE industry. The survey was divided into two respondent groups: “Management/ Executive Level” and “Employees/Staff.”

■ Part 2: Panel Discussion
Moderator: Ms. Yoko Nishikawa (Board Member and Chair of the Diversity Committee of JCMA)
Panelists: Ms. Louisa Kuo (Honorary Chairman of Taiwan-Japan Friendship of Culture Exchange Foundation of Tainan City)
Mr. Jason Yeh (CEO of GIS Group)
Ms. Megumi Furihata (Member of the Diversity Promotion Committee/ Presenter)

Topics of Discussion:
The panel discussion focused on the theme of gender, one of the three core pillars of the Committee’s activities, alongside regional diversity and nationality. Informed by the survey results, panelists exchanged views on topics such as women’s return to work and career development after childbirth. Ms. Kuo, who has built a distinguished career in both the public and private sectors while raising children, shared insights from Taiwan. Mr. Yeh and one of his team members also spoke on initiatives in the workplace to support employee well-being. From the Japanese side, representatives from the Japan Tourism Agency and JCMA offered their perspectives.

Through this session, participants gained a deeper understanding of the differing perceptions of diversity in Japan and Taiwan, and it became a valuable opportunity to reflect on future initiatives for diversity in Japan’s MICE industry. The discussion reaffirmed the importance of ongoing dialogue and the development of concrete improvement strategies. We look forward to continuing this exchange with our Taiwanese counterparts and welcome any members interested in learning more to contact our committee.

Left: Opening remarks by the Chair of the Diversity Committee, Ms. Yoko Nishikawa
Right: Presentation by Ms. Megumi Furihata, Member of the Diversity Promotion Committee/Presenter

Left: Panel discussion in Part 2
Right: Comments from Mr. Yasushi Ishikawa, Counselor in charge of MICE, International Tourism Department, Japan Tourism Agency.

Left: Comments from Mr. Hirotake Chikanami, Representative Director of JCMA
Center: Comments from Ms. Noriko Takeuchi, Vice Representative Director of JCMA
Right: Comments from Ms. Amber Chen, Vice President of GIS Group

We would like to express our sincere appreciation to all those involved in Taiwan for their participation and cooperation from the preparatory stages of the event.

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