Edition No.186

December 2025

TICAD Business Expo & Conference was held at the same time as the ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) at Pacifico Yokohama (Yokohama City) from Wednesday, August 20 to Friday, August 22. At the expo, Yamaha Motor Co. Ltd. (YMC) participated in the Japan Fair exhibition.
The Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) held the TICAD Business Expo & Conference to provide a platform for the development of relations between Japan and Africa. The purpose is to promote Japanese companies' technologies and services to political and business leaders of African nations, while also providing Japanese companies with information on Africa's business and investment environment. The Japan Fair is an exhibition introducing cutting-edge products, technologies, and services from Japanese companies. YMC had a booth under the theme "Past, Present, and Future. Yamaha Motor, walking alongside Africa's development." For over fifty years, YMC has introduced business and activities in Africa to support and contribute to the African culture, lives, and society. The main exhibits showcased motorcycles and FRP (fiber-reinforced plastic) boats. YMC is going to introduce its FRP boats in Africa. Using explanatory panels and videos, YMC explained the strength of its products and services across diverse fields to government officials and private companies from African countries.

YMC has entered into a strategic partnership with nine parties, including the Government of the Republic of Angola, Marino Forum21 (a Japanese General Incorporated Association), and NEC Corporation (Head Office: Minato-ku, Tokyo; hereinafter NEC), to support the modernization of Angola's small-scale fisheries and fishing boats. Based on this agreement, the participating parties will collaborate to explore and establish sustainable resource management and value chains, to contribute to the development of Angola's fisheries sector and achieve an economic improvement in local fishers. The partnership was presented at the ceremony held on August 21 in the TICAD9.
The above partnership was introduced at a launch ceremony held during TICAD9, with Chairman Watanabe representing YMC.

The partnership includes nine institutions: from the Republic of Angola - the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources; the governmental organization Institute for the Development of Artisanal Fisheries and Aquaculture; the state-owned enterprise EDIPESCA U.E.E-NAMIBE; as well as R&S LDA, YMC's distributor and from Japan, Marino Forum21 (a general incorporated association), NEC Corporation, Nitto Seimo Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo), Taiyo A&F Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Chuo-ku, Tokyo), and YMC. Under the partnership, participating organizations and companies will support the introduction of FRP (fiber-reinforced plastic) boats for small-scale fisheries, provide training on fishing techniques, and conduct fishery resource surveys. They will also develop and introduce resource management methods based on DX (digital transformation) technology.
YMC will support R&S LDA, which is exploring the introduction of FRP boats for local small-scale fishers, by conducting market research and providing technical assistance and guidance for the deployment of FRP boats in the sector.

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (YMC) has officially launched the global expansion of its YTA (Yamaha Technical Academy) Regional Training Centers (RTC), beginning with the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This initiative aims to enhance the quality of after-sales service and foster the development of skilled technicians, thereby delivering “Kando” and trust to customers around the world.

This initiative is not merely about establishing training facilities; rather, it is a co-creation project between YMC and local distributors and subsidiaries, designed to achieve both globally consistent service quality and the strengthening of region-specific technical capabilities under the Yamaha brand.

In 2025, YMC partnered with Al Yousuf Motors, a highly trusted and long-standing Yamaha distributor in the UAE, to establish the first RTC in the Middle East. This center provides YTA training and product seminars for service staff from the UAE and neighboring countries, with the goal of raising the overall service level throughout the region.

The establishment of the UAE RTC serves as a model case for future global expansion and represents a significant first step toward building a worldwide training network.

The establishment and operation of each RTC is carried out through close collaboration between YMC and local partners, who work together to build an effective and sustainable training environment.

When YTA courses are conducted at an RTC, YMC provides comprehensive support, including:

• Dispatch of expert personnel: YMC sends experienced staff to support training operations and ensure consistent instructional quality.
• Provision of training equipment: YMC supplies essential tools and devices such as YDIS (Yamaha Diagnostic System), DEC simulators, and specialized equipment for hands-on training.
• Support for training materials: Multilingual textbooks, instructor guides, PowerPoint presentations, and e-learning content are provided to ensure effective learning.
• Quality assurance: Localization of training content is restricted, and only YMC-certified materials are used to maintain globally consistent educational standards. Furthermore, RTC managers and instructors regularly visit YMC headquarters in Japan to receive the latest training on technologies and instructional methodologies. These visits ensure that the quality of education provided at each RTC remains up-to-date and aligned with global standards, while also reinforcing the strong relationship of trust between YMC and its local partners.

As part of the Expert Technician Training Program, YTA offers the following ten specialized courses:

1. Electrical Systems
2. YDIS (Yamaha Diagnostic System)
3. Engine Control
4. Troubleshooting
5. Engine Systems
6. Lower Unit
7. Bracket & PTT (Power Trim & Tilt)
8. Boat Rigging
9. Boat Testing
10. Maintenance

These courses are delivered locally at each RTC, with the selection of courses tailored to the specific needs and priorities of each region. For instance, in regions where electronic control systems are becoming more prevalent, courses such as “YDIS” and “Electrical Systems” are prioritized. In areas where foundational skills need strengthening, courses like “Lower Unit” and “Bracket & PTT” are emphasized. This approach allows for flexible and strategic course implementation that aligns with local market demands.

To accommodate diverse learning needs, YTA offers three training styles:

• Option A: Instructor-led training (ILT) for both lectures and practical sessions
• Option B: E-learning for lectures combined with ILT for practical sessions
• Option C: E-learning followed by a short ILT review and ILT for practical sessions

Technicians can also progress through a three-tier certification system—Bronze, Silver, and Gold—based on their experience and course completion, enabling structured and continuous skill development.

YTA provides globally recognized credentials to support technician development and career advancement:

• Course Certificates of Completion (for each course)
• YTA Certifications (Bronze, Silver, Gold)
• YTA ID Cards (renewed every four years)
• YTA Passports (record of training history)

All certifications are issued using YMC-provided templates and are managed by local service managers. In the future, e-learning certificates may also be issued as open badges, further supporting global recognition and technician motivation.

The global expansion of YTA RTCs, beginning with the UAE, marks a new and ambitious initiative for Yamaha. Future RTCs are planned for Indonesia, Colombia, and other regions.
This initiative is not driven by YMC alone—it is a co-created service network, built in partnership with local distributors and tailored to regional needs. By combining global consistency with local relevance, Yamaha aims to deliver “Kando” and trust to customers around the world through a reliable and unified service experience.

Al Yousuf Motors “AYM”, established in 1950 in the United Arab Emirates, has served as a distributor, witnessing the continuous evolution of Yamaha Marine products. The use of such powerful products on the water has increased our commitment to public safety on the water and we have invested in educational efforts in cooperation with a variety of customers, including local governments, marine clubs, and government agencies. Our goal is to promote responsible riding and reduce the risks associated with PWC use as the Yamaha distributor in the UAE.
We have been regularly organizing and conducting safety riding training sessions for many years, and I would like to share the training session we conducted on May 28th at Jumeirah Beach in Dubai.

Customers eligible for the program are as follows:

• Marine police personnel
• Marine sports club members
• Watercraft rental companies
• Dubai Maritime Authority

The sessions included:
◆ Onshore training before boarding

• A presentation based on information from the user manual on safety and operating procedures including before, during, and after usage.
• A walkthrough of the watercraft components and pre-ride safety checks, including jet pump and steering check.
• Inspecting safety gear (e.g., life vests)

◆ On-water hands on exercises:

• Starting the watercraft in appropriate water depth.
  We went through the classic exercises.
• Stopping distance, meandering between four buoys and the capsized PWC experiment.

Al Yousuf did the solo experiments or tandem rides with experts for beginners.

In fact, even experienced PWC riders appreciated the training. A notable moment came when the riders realized that the stopping distance at full throttle was over 100 meters, emphasizing the dangers of speeding in crowded areas and the importance of throttle control, body language and other factors when maneuvering.
We believe that this type of training is very important to build a good relationship with customers and to continue to be the brand of choice in the future.
Al Yousuf Motors remains committed to enhancing safety on water and fostering a culture of safety awareness at all times.

Hyundae Trade Motors Co., Ltd., the official distributor of Yamaha in South Korea, has been supplying Yamaha outboard motors, genuine parts, personal watercraft, and sport boats to the Korean market since 1983. Although market share varies by region, the company has consistently maintained an average share of over 35%. Under the spirit of fast and reliable service as well as various consumer campaigns, Hyundae Trade Motors has made continuous efforts to enhance customer satisfaction. Today, however, we would like to highlight not only their sales activities, but also several contribution initiatives they have been actively pursuing.

One of the most notable is the Korea Marine Education Academy (KMEA). Established in 2016 by Gyeonggi Province as the nation’s first institution dedicated to training professionals in the marine leisure industry, KMEA’s main curriculum focuses on both the theoretical and practical aspects of outboard motor maintenance, which accounts for 62.5% of powered water leisure equipment in Korea. In line with this, Hyundae Trade Motors launched the Marine Leisure Workforce Support Council to assist KMEA’s growth and smooth operation, while also working to maximize employment and start-up opportunities for trainees in the related fields. Also, Hyundae Trade Motors is providing office/facility tours to KMEA students, offering firsthand exposure to the repair, servicing, distribution, and parts management of Yamaha outboards.

With respect and faith in KMEA, Hyundae Trade Motors has directly hired KMEA graduates, supporting them in developing into skilled Yamaha outboard engineers who are now active in maintenance, repair, and service operations. To provide students with more practical, hands-on experience, the company also donated an F300 outboard motor for use in KMEA’s 24-week beginner and intermediate training courses. Moreover, Hyundae Trade Motors has served as an initial advisory company for the government’s newly introduced Marina Vessel Mechanic Certification program, which was introduced in 2021, working closely with the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries on the planning, legislation, and implementation stages.

In recognition of these contributions, Hyundae Trade Motors received a commendation from the Minister of Oceans and Fisheries for its role in promoting marine leisure tourism. Among six outboard importers nationwide, it was the only Yamaha distributor to receive this honor.

Hyundae Trade Motors stated that it will continue to strengthen close cooperation with Gyeonggi Province, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, KMEA, and other organizations in the marine leisure and tourism sectors. The company aims to contribute to the development of Korea’s fisheries and leisure markets while helping to shape the future of the broader marine industry.

The Marine Service Division held the Yamaha Technical Academy-Train The Trainer (YTA-TTT) from July 22 to August 1. 15 marine service staff members from 9 countries were invited. The purpose of YTA-TTT is to train trainers who can conduct YTA training in their countries.

This time, we conducted three out of the ten courses in the Expert Technician Program: Electrical systems, YDIS, and Engine control.

Participants in this YTA-TTT program were selected based on their plans to conduct similar YTA courses in their home countries. They are marine service managers and technicians who are expected to play a key role in expanding YTA education locally.

Unlike the basic content of the YTA Bronze course, this training delved into more advanced and specialized technical areas. Through their participation, attendees were also able to gather essential information about the engines, equipment, and materials required to conduct these courses themselves. This practical insight will help them prepare effectively for future training sessions in their respective regions.

A noteworthy mention is Mr. Wu Tsung-Hsi from Taiwan (FORNOR MACHINE TRADING & SERVICE CORP.), who achieved a remarkable feat by scoring top marks in the final exam!

The instructors educated participants enthusiastically and provided special supplementary lessons according to the students' level, resulting in all participants passing successfully.

Additionally, two exceptional instructors from YMUS visited Japan to support the training. They enriched the sessions by adding depth and clarity to the course content. YMUS is recognized as one of the most education-focused organizations among our global YTA members, and observing their instructional methods provided a valuable cross-training opportunity for YMC members, making it a highly beneficial experience.

The participating countries in this program were truly diverse, bringing together a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives. Even casual conversations in the cafeteria became valuable moments of cross-cultural communication among participants. While some attendees were unfamiliar with Japanese cuisine, we believe that experiencing Japanese culture is also an important part of the training, and it likely became a meaningful and memorable experience for them.

The Service Training Group continues to enhance after-sales service quality through YTA education to support product sales. We will keep promoting the expansion of YTA and appreciate your continued understanding and cooperation.

In the previous One-point Service (Chantey Edition No. 185), we explained that the trim tab should be adjusted to the left for the boat to go straight. Not only the trim tabs, but also the mounting position of the outboard motor on the boat, significantly impact the boat's performance and straightness during operation. Therefore, in this One-point Service, we will explain how to adjust the outboard motor's mounting position to ensure the boat goes straight.

When using a single outboard motor, position it at the boat's transom centerline (C.L.) to ensure the boat travels straight. If the outboard motor is mounted off-center, the boat will not travel in a straight line.
However, since the outer surface of the boat is curved, it is difficult to determine the centerline. One method to base the centerline is to use the chine width (c) and spray rail widths (a and b). If there are no spray rails, measure out the same distance from the chine on both sides of the hull, represented as (R1) in the figure. Then measure a second point from the chine an and mark it as (R2). Lastly, determine the centerline by measuring across from the right (R1) and (R2) to the left (R1) and (R2).

*Names and functions of the hull

• Chine
  The section of the boat where the bottom of the hull transitions to its side is called the chine.
• Spray rails (Stripe)
  Striped lines are designed to deflect water spray away efficiently. When the boat is planing at high speed, the striped lines are essential to reducing the amount of water spray on the hull. Two or three striped lines are typically on a boat.

To ensure the boat goes straight when installing two outboard motors, two key criteria must be met. First, both outboard motors' centerlines (C.L.) must have equal distance from the boat's transom centerline. Second, set each engine to the toe-out position.

1) Measure equal distances from the boat transom centerline (C.L.) to the centerline of each outboard motor.
Make the lengths of distance (e) and distance (f) same.
Minimize (T1) distance, the sum of (e) and (f).
*Ensure neither propeller contacts the other during operation.
By minimizing (T1), we can expect an improved boat straightness and propulsion efficiency, as well as reduced air drag during turns.

2) Set each engine to the toe-out position.
Set each engine to the toe-out position as shown in the diagram. Setting the outboard motors to the toe-out position should improve the boat's straightness. When setting the outboard motors to toe-out position, measure the distance (a) between the center points of the two outboard motors' lower cases, and the distance (b) between each outboard motor's front center point. Note that you must adjust the outboard motors so that the difference between (a) and (b) does not exceed 25mm (1 inch).

At Yamaha Motor Australia (YMA), environmental sustainability is central to our mission. We are proud to align with Yamaha Motor Corporation’s Environmental Plan 2050, which sets a bold target of achieving carbon neutrality across all business activities and product life cycles by 2050.

Key Initiatives in Australia cover elements of each of the three pillars of ESG:

Environmental Factors

・Yamaha’s Rightwaters

Launched in 2021, this initiative focuses on protecting and restoring Australia’s precious marine ecosystems. From local waterway cleanups to habitat conservation, Rightwaters promotes long-term stewardship of our oceans.

・Outback Cleanups Australia

In partnership with this grassroots organization, YMA’s Marine Division has donated equipment to support large-scale rubbish removal efforts in remote and rural environments—directly contributing to Australia’s sustainable development goals.

・Employee engagement

The YMA Group has partnered with Great Place To Work, the global authority on workplace culture, to collect feedback on employee experiences at work to help us understand how to create/enhance a high-trust and consistently positive employee experience.

・Diversity and inclusion

Women in the Workforce group is an initiative born of the discussion group held between a small group of female employees and the Managing Director on International Women’s Day 2024. The group works to identify and implement activities aimed at improving engagement and participation of female YMA group employees. Activities in 2025 have included the launch of a collaborative online space and a wellness program, and driving the REVS Her Heart^* ride day.
*REVS Her Heart - YMA held our first learn to ride day, working with a Yamaha supported female racer to offer the perfect stepping stone for female employees who had never ridden a motorcycle to learn the basics in a safe and fun environment.

・Community engagement

YMA has partnered with Australian artist Jade Akamarre and her #UnitedByYamaha story, Travelling Between Worlds, is a captivating glimpse into Jade’s life as a fourth-generation Indigenous artist. It explores her world, which is a balance of her corporate life as the Director of Pwerle Gallery in Adelaide, and the tranquil creative spirit of her Aboriginal heritage in outback Australia. While Jade’s artwork conveys her spiritual links to the land and ocean, her Yamaha GP1800 SVHO WaveRunner, which she uses to charge and release artistic inspiration, also celebrates this connection.

Travelling Between Worlds | Yamaha Motor Australia :
https://www.yamaha-motor.com.au/united-by-yamaha/travelling-between-worlds

・Compliance and ethical practices

Compliance is considered a cornerstone of the YMA Group’s approach to business, and the material importance thereof is regularly communicated across the organisation. The approach to compliance is not only for GLRC to monitor and report on regulatory compliance and risk matters, but also for all employees to act with a “compliance first “mindset.

We believe collaboration is key. YMA encourages all Yamaha Motor Group companies to:

• Share ideas and success stories across borders.
• Collaborate on recycling, clean energy, and sustainability solutions.
• Support local community and environmental initiatives.
• Implement ESG in a uniquely Yamaha way.

By working together, we can protect the environments we explore, enhance our shared value, and create a cleaner, greener future. Together, let’s keep our world moving—responsibly！

On the morning of Tuesday, October 7th, YAMAIMPORT was present at the International Coastal Cleanup Day celebration, an event that has been held since 2011 and is organized by DIRECTEMAR of the Chilean Navy in conjunction with each maritime government.

YAMAHA brand confirms its commitment to caring for the planet, and for this reason, a group of YAMAIMPORT volunteers, along with local distributors and friends, actively participated in this event, which consisted of garbage collection in the Caleta Portales Beach area of Valparaíso, in Chile central zone.

The Chilean Navy, which promotes the activity nationwide, is then responsible for sorting, weighing, and managing the recycling.

During this cleanup event, we were able to share the experience with clients and important government and Navy authorities.

“It was a very enriching experience, since, as a key player in the outboard motor line, our contribution to the environment is important. When we learned about the activity, we didn't hesitate to participate, as it's very important for us to raise awareness about caring for our coasts and the planet we are leaving for future generations,” commented Mr. Aldo Salas, OBM Commercial Manager at YAMAIMPORT, who also actively participated in the event.

The event included the cleanup of 200 beaches throughout Chile, and according to the organizers, the goal is to collect more than 85 tons by 2024.

YAMAIMPORT hopes to continue in the future, actively participating with its partners and distributors.

Sport fishing in Paraguay is more than a pastime: it is part of the country’s cultural and social life. The Paraguay and Paraná rivers, together with tributaries such as the Tebicuary, offer a privileged ecosystem with great species diversity. Anglers seek dorado, surubí, pacú and several types of catfish. Every year, thousands of enthusiasts gather, boosting regional tourism and promoting responsible fishing initiatives that preserve biodiversity for future generations.

Autopar Comercial S.A., Yamaha’s distributor in Paraguay, plays a leading role in building the nation’s nautical culture. Our involvement in fishing competitions goes beyond sponsorship, creating a comprehensive experience:

• Institutional stand showcasing Yamaha outboards, with focus on models used in sport fishing.
• Technical advice from our experts on performance, maintenance and competitive advantages.
• Distribution of brochures and catalogs with both product information and guidance on responsible water use.
• Hospitality actions and promotional giveaways that reinforce Yamaha’s closeness with anglers.
• Official sponsorship, providing financial and logistical support, and awarding the main prize.

Held on August 2–3, 2025, and organized by the Club Internacional de Tenis (CIT) and the Club Deportivo Amigos de Pesca (CDAP), the event gathered 64 boats and 192 competitors. It combined competitiveness and camaraderie, becoming one of the main milestones of Paraguay’s fishing calendar. The rules ensured fairness, and all fish were returned alive to protect river ecosystems.

Yamaha, through Autopar, was recognized as both the leading outboard motor brand and a strategic partner of Paraguay’s fishing community. With this participation, we reaffirm our commitment to performance on the water, environmental responsibility and the strengthening of Paraguay’s nautical culture.

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. has started sponsoring and supporting the Mixed 470 class sailing team, JPN22 Racing. Formed in October 2024 and based out of Enoshima Yacht Harbor, the JPN22 Racing team began its voyage toward the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics Mixed 470 berth.
In this Chantey No. 186, we will introduce the JPN22 Racing team goals and schedule for the 2024-2025 season.

In the 2025 season, the JPN22 Racing team has participated in races across Japan, achieving outstanding results.
Starting in July, there was a crew change, Seki replaced Ito, and since the 2025 Kanto Championship, Isozaki and Seki pair has been competing in competitions. After Isozaki and Seki formed a new pair, they won their first All Japan title at the All Japan Championships (the final tournament of the season) in September!

In addition to the major tournaments listed below, JPN22 Racing will participate in numerous domestic and international competitions, aiming to qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The schedule for major tournaments starting next season is as follows:

The JPN22 Racing's challenging voyage has just begun.
Chantey will continue to cover the JPN22 Racing Team’s activities up to the Olympics.
We appreciate your continued support.

For further information, please see the following website.
JPN22 Racing Website:
https://jpn22racing.com/en