March 07, 2008 Corporate strategy conference

Finally, I would like to discuss the management structure responsible for Canon's future growth.

Starting April 1st of this year, Canon will introduce an Executive Officer System. The aim of this system is not to separate management operations and executing operations, but to develop the current management structure to adapt to future business expansion through the addition of executive officers and the strengthening of individual executive functions.

Furthermore, in order to strengthen chief executive functions, it has been agreed to make Vice President Tanaka a Representative Director. Canon is focused on enhancing its operations at every level in order to ensure sound growth. In this way we can seek the kind of management structure change and innovation befitting a leading global corporate capable of sustaining prosperity and progress for 100, and even 200 years.