Overview of Accounting and Auditing in Japan

Japan, renowned for its technical advancements, high standards of ethics and inventive sectors, is a significant part of the world of commerce. With the third-largest economy in the world, Japan is known for its stability, cutting-edge infrastructure, and highly trained labour force. Numerous industries of the country, including those in automotive, finance, electronics, health care and service sector, support its robust economy. The foundation of Japanese business culture is long-term commitment, discipline, and dedication. Companies place a strong emphasis on cooperation, commitment and accuracy. The culture encourages consistency, dependability, and excellence in business practices. Companies' and organizations' financial integrity and transparency are crucially dependent on accounting and auditing. They are the cornerstones of effective financial management and are crucial for upholding trust, making wise choices, and proving compliance with legal obligations.

Accounting Standards in Japan 

A company is defined as a "Large company" under the Japanese Companies Act if it has a capital stock of 500 million yen or more or its liabilities total at least 20 billion yen. According to Article 328 of the Enterprises Act, large enterprises must employ an external auditor. Furthermore, an audit must be performed on their financial statements and supplemental schedules to acquire an auditor's opinion. 

The Financial Service Agency (FSA) and the Accounting Standards Board of Japan (ASBJ) are responsible for establishing and enforcing Japan's Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (J- GAAP). J-GAAP's main goal is to ensure that financial statements give interested parties, such as investors, creditors, and regulators, accurate and timely information. Currently, listed firms in Japan can choose between J-GAAP, Designated IFRS, US-GAAP, and Japan's Modified International Standards (JMIS) when filing their consolidated financial statements.

It is important to note that adopting IFRS standards has been increasing in Japan recently; this ratio has quickly risen. The fiscal year in Japan is from April 1 to March 31 of the following year's calendar. At the end of each fiscal year, businesses operating as Kabushiki Kaisha (KK) must present financial records. The Company Act's Article 435 mandates that stock corporations create thorough financial accounts. These financial statements include the following components: Balance sheets, profit and loss statements, statements of changes in shareholders' equity and net assets, notes to non-consolidated financial statements, business reports for each fiscal year, and supplemental schedules.

Auditing Standards in Japan

As required by the Companies Act and the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act (FIEA), an audit of the financial statement must be performed after all essential preparations have been made and the joint-stock company's financial statement report has been filed. This audit must be carried out by independent Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) or an auditing company for objectivity and transparency. This requirement aims to give the company's stakeholders, including shareholders, investors, and regulatory agencies, accurate and trustworthy financial information. Certain businesses must submit to an independent CPA audit under the Companies Act. These consist of the following:

• Large Companies: Large companies have a capital stock of at least $500 million or liabilities of at least $20 billion as of the most recent fiscal year's end.
• Companies choosing to adopt a "Company with Committees" corporate governance system: These organizations must also undergo an independent CPA audit.
• Other companies choose to freely appoint accounting auditors (kaikeikansanin): Despite not meeting the requirements for large companies or the "Company with Committees" structure, some businesses voluntarily hire accounting auditors. Additionally, these businesses must go through a CPA audit.

Types of Audits 

Internal and external audits are essential for Japanese businesses to maintain the accuracy, transparency, and compliance of their financial information. Different entities carry out these audits and have various goals.

1. Internal Audit:Internal auditing: Internal auditing is an unbiased assurance and consultation process to enhance an organization's operations. Employees of the organization and internal auditors are in charge of assessing and improving the efficiency of risk management, control, and governance systems. Their main concerns include pinpointing opportunities for improvement, evaluating internal controls, and making suggestions to boost operational effectiveness and reduce risks.
2. External Audit:In Japan, "external audit" refers to the impartial review of a company's financial accounts by certified public accountants (CPAs) from external auditing companies. An external audit's main goal is to assess the fairness and accuracy of the company's financial statements. In Japan, certain businesses must undergo external audits because of factors including their size, corporate governance system, and voluntary appointments. CPA audits must be conducted in accordance with the Auditing Standards set by the Business Accounting Council (BAC) and the implementation guidelines offered in the form of Auditing Standards Committee Statements by JICPA (the Japan Institute of Certified Public Accountants)

Services offered by Enterslice

• Internal auditing services:We provide complete internal audit solutions in Japan to ensure the efficacy of your organization's internal controls and procedures. We provide consulting services on internal controls and process optimization to assist you in maximizing your operations. We also provide advice on audit committee issues so you may set up efficient supervision. We assist in identifying and mitigating risks through regular audits monitoring and creating a specific audit strategy for your company. Additionally, our financial consulting services offer insightful advice and assistance for the financial administration of your business.
• Financial Statement Preparation: Our certified accountants in Japan provide accurate and compliant financial accounts for your business in accordance with Japanese accounting regulations. We ensure that your financial statements correspond to the relevant accounting rules and accurately portray the actual financial situation of your company.
• Bookkeeping Services:Our trustworthy accounting services in Japan precisely record your financial transactions and retain thorough records that are simple to find and analyze. We assist you in maintaining an accurate and organized record of your financial transactions so that you can run your business.
• Financial Analysis and Reporting: To assist you in understanding the financial health of your business, Enterslice provides thorough financial research services in Japan. Our thorough research enables you to see patterns, make wise decisions, and give stakeholders useful financial reports with insightful data.
• Audit of Financial Statements: To make sure that you are following the law and getting confidence that your financial records are accurate, we provide complete financial statement audit services in Japan. Our knowledgeable auditors evaluate your processing system for flaws and offer control advice. We objectively analyze externally disclosed facts and confirm accounting procedures for complicated transactions. Our offerings include collected financial statements, accountants' reports, and financial due diligence. Additionally, we provide financial analysis, offer financial consulting services, and aid in creating and enhancing internal controls over financial reporting.
• Advisory Services: To maximize the financial performance of your business, our experienced advisers in Japan offer individualized guidance on accounting, financial planning, and strategic decision-making. We provide specialized solutions to meet your unique company demands and assist you in reaching your objectives.
• Tax Compliance:It might be challenging to navigate Japan's intricate tax system, but our knowledgeable staff at Enterslice is here to help. We offer thorough tax compliance services that guarantee accurate tax computations, fast filing, and conformity to all pertinent Japanese tax rules.
• Audit Assistance: We provide thorough assistance with audits in Japan. Our knowledgeable staff assists in developing audit schedules, compiling necessary Paper works, and responding to auditor queries. We make sure the audit process runs well and assist you in successfully fulfilling your compliance duties.

Regulatory Reporting Services: With regard to the preparation and delivery of different regulatory reports, such as annual returns, company secretarial filings, and statutory compliance responsibilities, our team in Japan offers support. We assist you in precisely and promptly meeting your regulatory needs.