Tokushima Truck Association's Historic Visit to Vietnam Logistics Association
Overview of the Visit
In July 2025, a significant visit took place in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, led by Think Three Inc., an influential organization based in Tokushima, Japan. This marked the first official engagement between the Tokushima Truck Association and the Vietnam Logistics Association, aiming to tackle shared challenges in the logistics industry, such as driver shortages and safety education.
The delegation included members from the Tokushima Truck Association, Tokushima Prefectural Government employees, and local business representatives. They engaged in candid discussions with key leaders of the Vietnam Logistics Association, which provided an essential platform for exchanging perspectives on pressing issues within the logistics sector.
Background on the Logistics Industry Challenges
Japan's logistics industry has recently been grappling with a critical shortage of drivers, prompting the government to introduce the specified skills (automobile transport) program in March 2024. This initiative is designed to permit foreign workers with specific skills to work as truck, bus, or taxi drivers in Japan, addressing significant social issues related to labor shortages.
The government anticipates accepting up to 24,500 specified skill drivers over the next five years, and many companies are actively recruiting. However, as the integration of foreign drivers progresses, transmitting not just driving skills but also unique Japanese traffic etiquette and ethics presents a new challenge.
Think Three Inc., a support organization affiliated with Hirose Driving School in Tokushima, is committed to developing foreign drivers who can work safely and earn trust in Japanese society. They are establishing a unique educational model that blends Japanese language instruction, driving techniques, and ethical considerations.
Exchange of Ideas with the Vietnam Logistics Association
During the visit, discussions revolved around two main themes: the worsening labor shortage in the logistics sector and the expectations for future demand, along with gaps in safety education and cross-cultural traffic ethics. Both parties exchanged practical insights based on their experiences, notably regarding fostering awareness of safe driving and addressing operational challenges in educational contexts.
This exchange provided a valuable opportunity to anticipate potential improvements and recognize ongoing challenges in the industry.
Insights Gained from Educational Visits
The delegation also visited a Japanese language education center and driving schools in Vietnam. The educational programs emphasized not only language instruction but also a strong focus on topics like the prohibition of drunk driving, strict traffic manners, and instilling virtues such as public spirit and empathy, which are crucial in Japan's ethical training.
They observed classes utilizing an original textbook developed by Tetra Shift, the subsidiary of Think Three, specifically tailored for designated skill drivers. This innovative approach highlights the synergy achieved when Japanese instructors collaborate with Vietnamese trainers, effectively embedding the value of safe driving beyond technical skill transmission to encompass cultural understanding.
Future Outlook
The knowledge and connections gained from this visit will serve as a substantial reference for improving future educational frameworks. Think Three remains dedicated to cultivating drivers who do not cause accidents by enhancing the quality of their Japanese language education, driving instruction, and ethical training. They plan to work closely with the Tokushima Truck Association and relevant authorities to develop an educational system that fosters safety awareness, transcending cultural and value differences.
Related Organizations
Tokushima Truck Association
- - Name: Tokushima Truck Association
- - Headquarters: 14-50, Kitadamiyama, Tokushima, Tokushima, Japan
- - Representative: Kyosuke Yuasa
- - Website: Tokushima Truck Association
Vietnam Logistics Association
- - Name: Vietnam Logistics Business Association (VLA)
- - Address: Toà nhà Cảng Sài Gòn, 3 Nguyễn Tất Thành, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- - Representative: Đào Trọng Khoa
- - Website: Vietnam Logistics Association
Think Three Inc.
- - Name: Think Three Inc.
- - Headquarters: 3-22, Minami Uencho, Tokushima, Japan
- - Representative: Goro Soragawa
- - Website: Think Three
For further inquiries or interviews, please contact:
- - Name: Yoshinobu Murase
- - Phone: 088-631-0321
- - Email: [email protected]
Topics Consumer Products & Retail）
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