Private sector steps in to revitalize Japan’s rural communities

What happened: Companies are launching local projects and working directly with residents to address problems in farming, fishing and mountainous communities affected by depopulation and aging. Why it matters: The efforts are expected to help secure agricultural labor and broaden the ranks of people with continuing ties to the regions, while giving companies social contribution visibility and new business opportunities. The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries is stepping up efforts to draw in corporate participants and support host communities.

Companies are launching local projects and working directly with residents to address problems in farming, fishing and mountainous communities affected by depopulation and aging.

The efforts are expected to help secure agricultural labor and broaden the ranks of people with continuing ties to the regions, while giving companies social contribution visibility and new business opportunities. The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries is stepping up efforts to draw in corporate participants and support host communities.