This episode features a unique new Japanese tableware rental service. The concept is helping restaurants facing tight budgets while also providing a boost to an industry that has been struggling for several years.

[In Focus: China Eases Tech Crackdown with Strings Attached]
China seems to be easing its crackdown on technology companies that's been going on for two years. But is Beijing really giving up control? Or is it just pursuing a different strategy? We dig into what's really behind the latest moves.

[Global Trends: Growing Philippine Middle Class Offers Enticing Market]
The Philippine economy continues expanding at a rapid pace, supported by a growing middle class with a taste for consumption. We take a look at how Japanese businesses have set their sights on this attractive market.

In addition to writing paper, traditional Japanese washi paper has long been used in a variety of ways, such as for making lamp shades and door and window screens. This episode looks at how some companies are taking the ancient material into the future through even more sustainable production methods and creative new applications.