News Japan surges to second in Best Countries survey

A U.S. News & World Report ranking, in collaboration with the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, has exciting news for Japan. The country has jumped five spots, landing in the coveted second-place position. According to U.S. News & World Report, the rise can be attributed, in part, to the post-pandemic tourist boom as well as international investment and a thriving stock market. Japan excelled in the "entrepreneurial" category, which assesses a country's global connections, educational systems, and ability to foster innovation. A skilled workforce, strong infrastructure development, and a robust legal framework supporting businesses were all critical factors in Japan's success.

The Best Countries index is in its ninth year and ranks 89 nations. The data are gathered by researchers surveying around 17,000 individuals in 36 countries, including business leaders and "citizens who are nationally representative of their country." Switzerland has ranked No. 1 seven times, while the U.S. at No. 3 is an all-time best for the country. An improved perception of business openness helped the United States. In the quality of life category, Denmark, Sweden and Switzerland ranked in the top three in the 2024 survey, while Italy, France and the United States took out the top three places in the cultural influence subranking.

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