Happy New Year!

Last year marked the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombings and the end of World War II. The awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize to the Japan Confederation of A- and H-Bomb Sufferers Organizations (Nihon Hidankyo) has further strengthened global momentum toward peace and the abolition of nuclear weapons. In 2026, the Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) is scheduled to be convened. By upholding diplomacy grounded in dialogue and cherishing opportunities for mutual understanding and exchange, we will continue to broaden and deepen efforts toward lasting peace and a world free of nuclear weapons.

The risks confronting our operations are growing in both scale and complexity. Escalating climate change impacts, the threat of major earthquakes, aging infrastructure, and the rise of cyberattacks require comprehensive and proactive responses. Through sustained collaboration among consumer cooperatives and with a wide range of community-based organizations, we will continue to strengthen preparedness by advancing education and training initiatives and regularly reviewing and enhancing our business continuity plans (BCPs).

All 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) face significant challenges in being achieved by 2030. In response, Japanese consumer co-ops last year undertook an ambitious revision of their greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets under the Consumer Co-op 2030 Environmental Sustainability Policy. At the same time, they reaffirmed their commitment to advancing business activities and initiatives firmly grounded in respect for human rights.

Designated by the United Nations as the second International Year of Cooperatives, last year witnessed a wide range of initiatives implemented across the country. Building on these accomplishments, we will continue to carry forward our mission for the future by harnessing the enduring power of cooperation.

I wish you all a year of continued growth and fulfillment as we begin the new year.

January 2026

ARAI Chitose

President

Japanese Consumers' Co-operative Union (JCCU)