ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the Japanese and Southern Africa relationship with particular reference to the dynamic between South Africa and the wider policy towards Southern Africa as a whole. The size of the South African market as well as the potential regional Southern African market is vital in the ongoing Japanese foreign relations the post-apartheid government. In addition, since the 1994 democratic elections, there is evidence that South Africa has been playing a more prominent role in representing the interests of Southern Africa on the world stage. Historically, Japan’s policy towards Zimbabwe has been active because of Zimbabwe’s role as a frontline state and leading moral voice against apartheid in Southern Africa. Natural resource diversification requirements have meant that Japan relies on Zimbabwe for natural resources, particularly chrome and foodstuffs. However, the nature of the limited nature of the Zimbabwean market has made two-way trading relations very restricted.
