Our country's economy is finally showing signs of recovery from prolonged deflation. However, the declining birthrate, aging population, and population decrease continue unabated, and the relative position of our economic and scientific and technological power, which are the foundation of national strength, is on a downward trend. Additionally, as the security environment surrounding our country becomes increasingly severe, and with the uncertainty stemming from changes in the U.S. administration and political instability in South Korea, the necessity to maintain and acquire our country's autonomy, superiority, and indispensability is undeniably rising. Looking ahead at the international situation, we will discuss what economic security policies we will implement in the future.

The Important Economic Security Information Protection Utilization Law, established in May 2024, is a new framework aimed at utilizing economic security policies by providing confidential information held by the government to the private sector while ensuring its protection. However, many companies express doubts such as, "Is this relevant to us in the first place?" "How can we utilize the information provided by the government?" and "Is there enough benefit to justify the costs?" Although operational standards and government ordinances are becoming clearer, it remains difficult for companies to see a concrete path on how to engage with this law. In this lecture, a speaker who has recently worked at the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry as a policy official for security clearance and is now supporting companies in their economic security responses as a lawyer will present. Taking into account both public and private perspectives, the lecture will clarify the potential for companies to utilize the security clearance system and will provide a detailed explanation of practical issues and challenges. It is hoped that this lecture will help view the security clearance system not merely as a government information management measure, but as a risk management measure to enhance corporate capabilities, and will assist in the necessary preparations and considerations for that purpose.

The Chinese economy is slowing down far more than official statistics suggest. The persistently high unemployment rate is exacerbating public safety issues. In 2025, the Xi Jinping administration is set to announce various economic policies aimed at stimulating the economy, which are expected to be implemented. However, there are numerous challenges, including the excesses of the real estate downturn. In the near term, there is no prospect for economic recovery. Amidst this, a Trump administration 2.0 is expected to be established, with policies towards China being strengthened. The intensification of US-China tensions is inevitable, and Japan needs to develop its own strategy to avoid being caught up in it. This lecture will explore the nature of Japan's unique strategy.