I wish you a Happy New Year.

Looking back at the year 2021, we have seen a change of government in Japan, a more serious struggle for supremacy in advanced technology between the U.S. and China, a growing global concern for human rights, and a reaffirmation of global warming as a common global issue that cannot be ignored.

Since the beginning of the global coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19), the medical world has made incredible progress in the development, production, and supply of vaccines and treatments. However, we still have a long way to go before we can declare victory. We need to remain vigilant in our efforts to protect each other and our businesses.

In May 2021, JSR Group announced the transfer of its elastomers business to ENEOS Corporation, with the aim of sustaining the growth of its original elastomers business. At the same time, JSR pledged to position its digital solutions business centered on semiconductor materials and life sciences business, as its core businesses and to continue to evolve steadily. JSR Group is a technology company, and we are committed to building good relationships with our customers and local communities.

JSR Group is a technology company. Providing cutting-edge technologies through innovation is the essence of our business, and we will continue to be involved in a wide range of research projects to explore new fields. A variety of new technologies will impact people's lives and reshape many businesses, and JSR Group would like to be at the forefront of these changes.

As the climate crisis and social change become common issues around the world, there is a stronger need to shift from a focus on shareholder value to providing value to all stakeholders in terms of management values.

JSR Group sees these changes as an opportunity rather than a threat, and aims to maximize its corporate social value and incorporate such value into all of its business activities.

We look forward to your continued support and guidance in the coming year.

Eric Johnson

Representative Director, CEO JSR Corporation