OSAKA -- The Global Business Opportunities Convention 2001 began its three-day session Monday in Osaka, with terrorism concerns in the United States causing 25 foreign companies to cancel, organizers said.
Ninety-one companies and organizations from 30 foreign countries and regions are attending the 16th quasiannual event to arrange opportunities between Japanese and foreign businesses.
Some 2,500 Japanese companies are expected to seek business deals with foreign participants, said officials of the organizers, which include the Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Osaka Prefectural Government.
"Talks on business tieups beyond national boundaries have become more important than ever under the globalization of economic activities," said Wa Tashiro, chairman of the Osaka chamber, in his opening address.
Tougher terms for visa issuance also contributed to the large number of cancellations, event officials said.