... The law will oblige companies with 301 or more employees, along with central and local governments, to set numerical targets for the employment and promotion of women. They will also have to disclose this information to the public. Smaller companies will only be required to make efforts to do so. But the law, which will take effect April 1, does not stipulate mandatory numerical targets, meaning that companies can set their goals after analyzing their current situation. There are no penalties even if they fail to reach their goals. Instead, those that make great strides in hiring and promoting women will be given preferential treatment in contracts for public works. Observers welcomed the passage of the bill, saying it could boost companies’ efforts to create more female-friendly environments and change the male-dominanted work culture. However, they said many issues still remain for realizing a society where more women can use their potential talents. ...