Xiqiao Liu Takes the Stage at GRIC2025, Japan’s Largest Growth Industry Conference! What Did the Panel Discussion Reveal About Japan’s Changes, Strengths, and Next Steps? | Event Report

Hello! This is Sunny-chan from SUNNY SIDE UP GROUP’s PR team ☀️

On Thursday, November 13, Xiqiao Liu, President and CEO of SUNNY SIDE UP, took the stage at GRIC2025, Japan’s largest growth industry conference, held at Shibuya Hikarie.

In this session themed “What’s Strange About the Japanese!! What Is Japan’s Position in the Global Economy and What Is Needed for Economic Growth?”, three panelists with diverse backgrounds explored the gap between “macroeconomic expectations” and “on-the-ground realities.”

Joined by Makoto Takano (Forbes JAPAN Founder) and Jesper Koll (Monex Group Expert Director), the discussion unfolded over 40 minutes of intensive dialogue. As the representative of SUNNY SIDE UP, Xiqiao shared insights on “Japan’s appeal and potential” drawn from daily experiences working on diverse projects.

First, Xiqiao reflected on over 20 years of living in Japan, noting that “Japan’s true value becomes visible only when you take the time to engage with it deeply.” An anecdote was shared about a recent acquaintance who, after just six months, said they “never want to leave Japan,” so captivated by Japanese life and culture. This, Xiqiao told the panelists and audience, is evidence of a depth that is not immediately apparent on the surface.

Xiqiao also addressed Japanese communication styles, contrasting the Japanese tendency to be overly cautious—thinking “I must speak perfectly”—with people from other countries who “just start talking” to initiate interaction. The message was clear: “Understandable English is enough. Japan should feel more comfortable engaging with the world.”

The discussion also touched on Japan’s creativity. While global surveys recognize Japan as “the most creative country,” domestically this strength often goes unrecognized. Xiqiao acknowledged that while Japan excels at “making things,” there is room for improvement in “selling” and “communication.” The vision presented was that “a mixed model—partnering with those strong in speed and risk-taking while preserving Japan’s strengths—is effective.”

What emerged from the day’s discussion was that Japan’s unique structures—the “strange points” referenced in the theme—can actually be sources of tremendous business and market opportunities. Xiqiao’s words conveyed a conviction that understanding Japan’s appeal and connecting it to the world is the key to unlocking the next stage.

We at SUNNY SIDE UP GROUP will continue to take on projects that connect Japan and the world while creating “joyful disruptions.” Please look forward to what’s next!