Mr.Akihiko Takashima, former President and Founder of Kyoei Steel Co., Ltd. (headquartered in Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture; The current President and CEO is Mr. Shogo Sakamoto), was awarded the Friendship Order by the Government of Vietnam in recognition of his long-term contributions to the development of friendly cooperation between Japan and Vietnam, particularly in the economic sector.

Award Ceremony (Right: Mr. Nguyen Truong Son, Consul General of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in Osaka; Left: Mr. Akihiko Takashima, Founder

Former Chairman Takashima has made significant contributions to Vietnam's economic development by bringing the company to the market as the first steel producer, simultaneously has playedan important role in the establishment of the Consulate General of Vietnam in 1997. His achievements have been widely recognized at home and abroad, earning him the Blue Ribbon Medal in 2005 and the Vietnam Friendship Order in 2014. For his unremitting contributions to deepening the friendship between the two countries, he was honored to receive this award.

September 3, 2026