Nihon Parkerizing has continuously worked to meet the evolving needs of our customers based on our corporate philosophy, which is "to contribute to the effective use of limited resources on planet Earth, creating new value of resources through surface modification of all kinds of materials, preserving the global environment, and realizing an affluent society." In recent years, not only have the needs of our customers become more diverse and complex, but the geographical scope of our customers has expanded around the globe. In addition, the environment faced by businesses is also radically changing with the rapid development of science and technology. As we approach our centenary in 2028, the company has established a policy for this year of "Challenge for Change" to improve the flexibility of our corporate structure and ensure no one is left behind amidst these paradigm shifts. By transforming ourselves and creating a corporate culture in which past preconceptions do not limit us to surviving the next hundred years, we will provide more excellent value for our customers and stakeholders.

At the Nihon Parkerizing Group, we have formulated our vision for the future in our Vision2030 plan and are committed to increasing corporate value through sustainability management. As one of the measures to realize this plan, we will actively promote the development of technologies and applications related to the decarbonized society that will arrive in the near future, specifically technologies and applications associated with EV components and the hydrogen society. The focal point for research to achieve these goals will be our new Central Research Laboratories, scheduled to be completed in December 2024 in Hiratsuka, Kanagawa. I believe our mission is to improve our corporate value and to utilize the resources at the new research facility to find solutions to societal issues.

In addition, while the market in Japan has matured, we aim to incorporate the dynamism of the global south to ensure we expand in the overseas markets where growth is anticipated. Nihon Parkerizing has invested overseas since establishing its first affiliate in Taiwan in 1965. Now, we must accelerate this expansion, positioning the India and ASEAN regions, which are expected to grow as crucial business areas following China. We will expand our business in these regions using various methods, including M&A and capital alliances.

Under its catchphrase of transforming a diverse range of surfaces with chemistry, the Nihon Parkerizing Group will endeavor to continue to be a corporation with the trust of our customers and shareholders, excelling as a global niche corporation and pursuing sustainable growth while contributing to society through seeking solutions to social issues.

We look forward to your continued support.