Companies focus on Japan's panty liner market.

UniCharm has strengthened its efforts in the Japanese panty liners market, where penetration is reportedly 40% lower than Europe, the U.S. and other Asian countries. Currently, sales of panty liners are [Yen] 12 billion, but experts predict growth could increase the size of this market to [Yen] 25 billion, according to NONWOVENS INDUSTRY Far East correspondent Kin Ohmura. Other participants in Japan's feminine hygiene market, including Procter & Gamble and Kao, are also reportedly focusing increased resources on this segment.