PSPINC CEO Kenichi Uchikura's Blog

When I started my business in Washington State back in 1987, the environment for entrepreneurs was completely different. This state truly felt like a partner in my success. They helped me find the right location for my office, introduced me to the banks — I still remember working with Seafirst Bank — and even helped me connect with talented people who would go on to become the foundation of my company. The sales tax back then was just a little over 7%, and the overall cost of doing business was reasonable. It was, in every sense, a great state to start and grow a business.

 

But today, I hardly recognize Washington State anymore. The focus has shifted. Instead of creating a supportive climate for small businesses, or investing in building one of the best educational environments in the nation, the priority now seems to be on environmental regulations and generating tax revenue. While protecting the environment is important, the balance has tipped so far that small businesses — once the heartbeat of this state — are left struggling under the weight of taxes, compliance rules, and bureaucracy.

 

It saddens me to say this, but based on what I see today, I can no longer recommend Washington State as a place to start a business. The spirit of partnership that once made it a great place for entrepreneurs has been replaced with a system that feels more like an obstacle than an ally.

 

https://en.bloguru.com/ken/536572/how-business-friendly-is-the-washington

 

 

 

 

The Honda N-Box: Japan’s Best-Seller, But at What Cost?

 

The N-Box by Honda is currently the most popular car in Japan. Many people love it, calling it cute, practical, and economical. From the outside, it seems like the perfect choice for city driving.

 

But I see it differently.
The N-Box is not as safe as a full-size car. In collisions, especially at higher speeds, the fatality rate is higher compared to larger vehicles. Its lightweight design and compact structure make it efficient, but they also compromise safety.

 

So why is this “matchbox” so successful in Japan?
It’s not just about convenience or fuel economy—it’s about taxation. The Japanese government heavily taxes larger vehicles, making them expensive to own. Over time, this has eroded the public’s appetite for real, full-sized cars.

 

To me, this is a tragedy.
Japan, once a powerhouse of automotive innovation and performance, now sees its streets dominated by tax-friendly microcars. Practical? Yes. Affordable? Certainly. But the price we pay is safety—and the fading love for the kind of cars that once defined Japanese engineering.

 

https://en.bloguru.com/ken/536566/the-honda-nbox-japans-bestseller-but-at