Core Viewpoint - Japanese companies are facing significant challenges in the Chinese market, leading to closures and exits from various sectors, but they are simultaneously increasing investments in high-end technology and local operations in China [4][22][29]. Group 1: Company Closures and Exits - Canon has closed its printer production base in Zhongshan, which was once a major manufacturing hub, reflecting a significant decline in its market presence [5]. - Nissan announced the closure of its Wuhan factory, which had a low production utilization rate of only 3%, leading to its acquisition by another company [6]. - Mitsubishi has completely exited the Chinese automotive market after over 40 years of operation, ceasing its vehicle production [6]. - Sony has officially withdrawn its Xperia smartphone business from China, indicating a strategic retreat from the market [6]. - Yakult closed its first factory in Guangzhou after experiencing a drastic drop in sales, with daily sales nearly halving compared to previous years [6]. Group 2: Market Dynamics and Competition - The decline of Japanese brands in China is attributed to the rapid advancement of domestic brands, which have overtaken their Japanese counterparts in various sectors [11][12]. - Japanese companies have been slow to adapt to market changes, relying heavily on their brand reputation and quality, which has diminished due to various scandals [14][17]. - The local adaptation of Japanese companies has lagged, with many failing to incorporate local consumer preferences into their product offerings [19][20]. Group 3: Strategic Shifts and Investments - Despite the closures, Japanese investment in China has surged, with a 55.5% year-on-year increase in the first three quarters of this year, leading all countries [23]. - Companies like Toyota are making significant investments in high-end technology, such as establishing a wholly-owned electric vehicle company in Shanghai [24]. - Panasonic is investing in semiconductor packaging materials in Shanghai, indicating a strategic focus on critical supply chains amid global competition [28]. - The overall trend shows a "K-shaped differentiation," where low-end capacities are exiting while high-end investments are increasing, reflecting a strategic shift in how Japanese companies view the Chinese market [29].

没那么简单。 这两年，很多日企传出关停、倒闭的消息。有人说，日本制造，是不是在拼命撤出中国？ 1 日本企业，日子似乎不好过。 就在11月，佳能关闭了中山打印机生产基地，让不少网友唏嘘"一代人的青春结束了"。 要知道，曾经在中山佳能工厂上班被视为"金饭碗"，食堂3元管饱，免费宿舍，空调随便吹，求职者排长队入职，高峰期员工上万，生产上 亿台激光打印机，2022年还实现工业总产值近32亿。 可现在，这家工厂生产的佳能打印机，完全失守国内市场，只能撤退了。最高补偿2.5N+1，有人晒出拿到手40万，传遍全网。 佳能只是一个缩影。 ——今年4月，日产汽车宣布将于明年3月31日前关停武汉汽车工厂。7月，该工厂被岚图汽车以7.32亿元收购。 要知道，这座投资数十亿的汽车工厂，2022年才投产，计划年产30万辆。没想到车子卖不动，年产量长期不足1万辆，产能利用率低到只有 3%，闲置生产线成了吞噬企业现金流的"黑洞"。 ——今年7月，三菱汽车终止了和沈阳航天的发动机合资项目。早在2023年，三菱就已经停止了在华的整车生产。在华深耕了四十多年的三 菱，彻底退出了中国汽车制造的舞台。 ——今年8月，索尼Xperia官方微信公众号注 ...

神译局是36氪旗下编译团队，关注科技、商业、职场、生活等领域，重点介绍国外的新技术、新观点、新风向。 编者按：便秘、肠漏、乳糜泻、炎症……现代人们常常受到肠道健康的影响。本文原作者文森特·何（Vincent Ho）是澳大利亚西悉尼大学医学院医学副教 授，他在胃肠病学领域发表多篇研究论文，并以"肠道博士"之名活跃于大众媒体与社交平台。他在本篇指南中详述了保持肠道健康的关键点。通过改变生活 方式和饮食习惯，我们可以保护肠道微生物群，增强免疫力，并改善情绪。本文来自编译，希望对您有所启发。 人体肠道内栖息着数万亿微生物。图片来源：Steve Gschmeissner/SPL 肠道相关的不适症状极为普遍。然而出于羞耻感，许多人甚至不敢向至亲好友倾诉。作为执业胃肠病学家，我亲眼目睹了这些问题是如何影响人们的生活 的。 维护肠道健康、缓解肠道症状的第一步，是主动了解相关知识。在这份指南中，我邀请你踏上一段探索肠道与"肠道微生物群"的旅程，了解如何改善并维持 肠道健康。若你或身边人正为肠道健康所困，请务必明白，你绝非孤军奋战。以下是我行医生涯中帮助过的患者案例，不知你是否有所共鸣？ 另一位五十多岁的患者因粪便带少量鲜红血液 ...

Core Viewpoint - The traditional consumption sector in China is expected to recover, and there is no need for excessive pessimism. The consumption market is showing significant differentiation, moving away from homogenization towards personalized choices driven by consumer characteristics [2][3]. Group 1: Industry Trends - The consumption industry is entering a new adjustment period post-2022, influenced by the AI wave, leading to the emergence of a "super consumer" and "super entrepreneur" era [3][31]. - The overall valuation of the food and beverage industry is currently at a reasonable low level, with historical and international comparisons indicating a moderate undervaluation [2][58]. - The consumer demand is becoming more personalized and segmented, moving away from the previous era of mass production [36][61]. Group 2: Investment Opportunities - Companies should focus on their second growth curve, exploring new demands and innovative business models to adapt to the changing market [10][22]. - There are four key directions for companies seeking sustainable growth: new product varieties and models, concentric diversification, international expansion, and comprehensive transformation [18][19][21]. - The consumer goods sector's core value lies in long-term, stable, and sustainable performance, with a significant portion of valuation based on long-term earnings rather than short-term fluctuations [65][66]. Group 3: Specific Sector Insights - The white liquor industry is expected to experience a cyclical downturn, but quality business models will still provide opportunities for market share recovery [43][45]. - The durable goods sector, including automotive and home appliances, is seeing a shift towards international markets, with companies leveraging their manufacturing capabilities in China while enhancing product design for overseas markets [59]. - The service consumption sector aligns well with the characteristics of the super consumer and super entrepreneur era, emphasizing consumer-centric product development and marketing strategies [60][62].

Core Viewpoints - The traditional consumption market in China is expected to recover, and there is no need for excessive pessimism [9] - The consumption market is showing significant differentiation, moving away from the homogenized phase of mass production to a stage where consumers choose products based on their individual characteristics [44] - The rise of AI is ushering in an era of super consumers and super entrepreneurs, where consumer power is increasingly shifting [38][46] Industry Analysis - The food and beverage industry is currently valued at a reasonable low level, with overall valuations being moderate to undervalued [70][78] - The consumption industry has entered a new adjustment period post-2022, driven by the AI wave, leading to the emergence of super consumers and super entrepreneurs [4][40] - The industry is experiencing a cyclical pattern that is closely related to its own development characteristics and is not significantly affected by economic growth rates [24][51] Investment Opportunities - Companies that can adapt to new consumer demands and innovate will find growth opportunities, particularly in new product varieties and business models [16][19] - Diversification strategies, such as concentric diversification, can help companies navigate challenging market conditions [19][20] - International expansion is becoming a clear strategy for many companies, with a focus on markets like Southeast Asia and Africa [22][73] Consumer Behavior - The shift in consumer power means that products must be designed around consumer needs, leading to a reversal of traditional business logic [75] - The demand for personalized and segmented products is increasing, reflecting a more individualized consumer landscape [44][76] Long-term Value - The core value of consumer goods lies in their long-term, stable, and sustainable performance rather than short-term fluctuations [78][80] - Companies with strong business models and the ability to adapt to market changes will continue to thrive, even in challenging economic conditions [53][59]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the withdrawal of Japanese manufacturing companies from the Chinese market, highlighting the decline of brands like Canon, Yakult, and Mitsubishi, which were once dominant players in their respective industries. This trend reflects a broader shift in the competitive landscape as Chinese companies advance in technology and market presence, leading to a significant reduction in the market share of Japanese brands [1][9][11]. Group 1: Canon's Closure - Canon's production line at its Zhuhai facility ceased operations on November 21, 2025, marking the end of its 20-year presence in China [21][22]. - The factory, once a significant employer in the region, had seen its workforce shrink to just over 1,400 employees by the time of closure [29]. - Canon's market share in the Chinese laser printer market plummeted to 3.9% by the third quarter of 2025, down from 16% in 2010 [11][37]. Group 2: Other Japanese Brands - Yakult announced the closure of its Guangzhou factory, which had been operational for 23 years, and previously shut down its Shanghai factory [23][31]. - Mitsubishi Motors ceased all local production in China, with its vehicle sales dropping from 133,000 units in 2019 to just 33,600 units in 2022 [31][34]. - The article notes that the decline of these brands is not an isolated incident but part of a larger trend of Japanese companies exiting the Chinese market, including Sony and Toshiba [24][33]. Group 3: Market Dynamics - The decline of Japanese brands is attributed to several factors, including the rise of local competitors and a shift in consumer preferences towards more affordable and innovative products [12][38]. - The Chinese market for printers has evolved, with local brands capturing 41.5% of the market share by 2025, while Japanese brands struggle to adapt [11][37]. - Japanese companies are perceived to have failed to respond to changing market conditions, maintaining outdated business models and product offerings [12][41]. Group 4: Global Perspective - Despite their struggles in China, Japanese manufacturers still hold significant global market shares, with Canon commanding 22% of the global printer market as of 2023 [15][42]. - The profitability of Japanese automotive brands remains strong on a global scale, with Toyota's profits significantly outpacing those of Chinese competitors [44]. - The article concludes that while Japanese brands face challenges in China, their global competitiveness remains intact, indicating a need for adaptation rather than a complete retreat from the market [17][47].

Core Insights - Yakult China has achieved steady sales growth by innovating product composition, sales channels, and promotional activities, responding to consumer demand for probiotic drinks [1] - The global probiotic market is projected to reach $80.3 billion in 2024, with China's market expected to grow to 128.3 billion RMB, reflecting an annual growth rate of 8.8% [1] - Yakult's daily sales in China for the first half of 2025 reached 2.67 million bottles, a 5.2% increase from the previous year, indicating strong consumer recognition and support [1] Group 1: Market Trends and Consumer Demand - The probiotic market in China is growing rapidly at an annual rate of 16%-18%, expected to exceed 137.7 billion RMB by 2026, making China the second-largest probiotic market globally [1] - Recent trends show that health awareness, low sugar preferences, and functional benefits are influencing consumer behavior across all generations [6] - Yakult aims to meet diverse health needs by launching high-functionality products with increased active probiotic counts and added nutritional components [6][8] Group 2: Product Innovation and Development - Yakult has accelerated its product launch pace, introducing low-sugar options that also provide essential nutrients, such as the "Yakult 500 billion low sugar" in 2023 and the "Yakult 500 billion 0 sugar" in 2025 [8] - New flavors like "Yakult Green Grape" and "Yakult Peach" are set to be released in 2025 and 2024, respectively, catering to consumer preferences for taste while maintaining health benefits [8] - The company emphasizes the importance of repeat purchases, driven by consumer trust and the health benefits of its products [8] Group 3: Research and Collaboration - Yakult is committed to scientific research and has established partnerships with various institutions to explore the health effects of its probiotic strain, LcS [10][12] - The company has published six clinical research results in China, demonstrating the effectiveness of LcS in various health contexts [10][11] - A new joint laboratory with China Agricultural University aims to further investigate the scientific validity of LcS and its health benefits for different populations [12] Group 4: Marketing and Brand Strategy - Yakult is actively enhancing its brand image and consumer engagement through collaborations with popular IPs like "HELLO KITTY" to attract younger demographics [12] - The company is expanding its online presence and sales channels, including live streaming and family delivery services, to adapt to changing consumer purchasing behaviors [14] - Yakult's marketing strategy focuses on building emotional connections with consumers while promoting the health benefits of its products [14][15]

Core Viewpoint - Yakult China has achieved steady sales growth by innovating product composition, sales channels, and promotional activities, responding to consumer demand for probiotic drinks [1][2]. Market Overview - The global probiotic market is projected to reach $80.3 billion by 2024, with China's market expected to grow to 128.3 billion RMB, reflecting an annual growth rate of 8.8% [1]. - The probiotic consumption market in China is growing rapidly at an annual rate of 16%-18%, with expectations to exceed 137.7 billion RMB by 2026, positioning China as the second-largest probiotic market globally [1]. Sales Performance - In the first half of 2025, Yakult's average daily sales in China reached 2.67 million bottles, marking a 105.2% increase compared to the same period last year [2]. Product Development - Yakult is focusing on scientific product development to meet the evolving health needs of Chinese consumers, including low-sugar and functional products [7][8]. - New product launches include "Yakult 500 Billion Low Sugar" and "Yakult 500 Billion 0 Sugar," which are fortified with vitamins and dietary fiber [8]. Brand Strategy - Yakult aims to deepen consumer relationships through brand revitalization and emotional connections, including collaborations with popular IPs like "HELLO KITTY" [13][15]. - The company is enhancing its online presence and sales channels, including live streaming and home delivery services, to adapt to changing consumer behaviors [15][16]. Research and Development - Yakult is committed to ongoing clinical research and collaboration with academic institutions to explore the health effects of its probiotic strain, LcS [10][12]. - Recent studies have been published in international journals, demonstrating the effectiveness of LcS in various health contexts [11][12]. Future Outlook - Yakult plans to continue promoting the scientific value of probiotics and innovate product offerings based on consumer preferences for nutrients and flavors [10][16].

Core Viewpoint - The Japanese probiotic drink brand Yakult is undergoing a restructuring in China, which includes the closure of its Guangzhou No. 1 factory to enhance competitiveness and achieve sustainable growth in the market [1][2]. Company Summary - Yakult's parent company announced on October 20 that it will close the Guangzhou No. 1 factory, with production being transferred to the Guangzhou No. 2 factory and the Foshan factory. The closure is scheduled for November 30 [1]. - Guangzhou Yili Dairy Co., established in 2001, has a registered capital of approximately 396 million yuan and operates three factories in total [1]. - The Guangzhou No. 1 factory, which began operations in June 2002, has a total area of 9,457.91 square meters [1]. Industry Summary - Yakult's sales in China have been declining sharply, with daily average sales dropping from 625.7 million bottles in 2022 to 443.9 million bottles in 2024 [6]. - The decline in sales is attributed to a decrease in consumer trust in the benefits of probiotics and the emergence of alternative products such as low-temperature yogurt and plum juice [6][8]. - Despite being the market leader in the probiotic drink category, Yakult's market share has been decreasing alongside competitors like Mengniu and Wahaha [8]. - In response to market changes, Yakult has introduced low-sugar products and new flavors since 2023, and recent adjustments have shown some improvement, with daily average sales increasing by 3.9% in early 2025 compared to the previous year [8].

Core Insights - Yakult will close its first factory in Guangzhou on November 30, 2023, as part of a capacity optimization strategy due to declining demand for yogurt drinks and aging equipment [1] - The yogurt drink market in China has been experiencing a downturn since before the pandemic, with consumers increasingly favoring low-sugar or no-sugar options [2][3] - The competitive landscape has intensified, with various brands and new products, such as ready-to-drink tea, diverting consumer interest away from traditional yogurt drinks [2][3] Company Actions - The closure of the Guangzhou factory is not an isolated incident; Yakult previously announced the closure of its Shanghai factory in December 2024 to improve production efficiency and resource allocation [1] - Yakult has been in the Chinese market since 2002 and has expanded to 53 subsidiaries and 6 production bases over nearly two decades [1] Market Trends - The rise of professional probiotic supplements has provided consumers with more low-sugar or no-sugar alternatives, further impacting the demand for traditional yogurt drinks [3] - Major domestic dairy companies have also launched similar low-sugar products, increasing competition for Yakult [3] - The overall revenue for competitors like Junyao Health has shown modest growth, but profits have significantly declined, indicating broader challenges in the yogurt drink market [3]