​My Fellow ACCJ Members,
 
Yesterday, the Board of Governors voted to approve a proposal presented under our key strategic initiative, member centricity, that addresses long-standing feedback from members, better aligns our sources of revenue to our member mix, and will modernize the way the ACCJ operates.
 
The proposal:

• adds value to current membership categories through added benefits and optional packages, directly aligned with member needs;
• rebalances dues to better align with the current membership mix; and,
• launches a modernization plan to empower members, committees and leaders with digital capabilities.

 
Members will see improved value for money. In the proposal as it stands, a majority of members will see no change or reduced overall cost of membership. Importantly, the proposal does not involve any change to current member categories or the Constitution. Full specifics of the proposal are available here on the MVP website.
 
These changes represent a big first step forward in meeting long-standing member feedback. With the recent announcement of bilateral trade discussions to begin between the U.S. and Japan, the enhanced member value proposition and modernization of the Chamber’s capabilities positions us to better focus on more relevant and stronger advocacy as the primary voice of American businesses in Japan.
 
Thank you for what you do every day as members of the ACCJ.  As always, please feel free to contact me at sshah@accj.or.jp.
 
Sachin N. Shah
ACCJ President