INVEST JAPANINVEST KANSAI－ ２０２２/English －Table of Contents
Introduction

1

2

3

1-1

The Large Kansai Economy

3

1-2

Trade Value by Region and Product４1-3Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan

５

5

6

Attractive Travel Area
7-1

Kansai, Satisfying All Kinds of Tourists' Interests

18

7-2

Kansai’s world-class tourist attractions

19

7-3

Kansai’s world-class regional brands

20

7-4

Facilities to experience the culture and technology of
Kansai21

Highly Developed Infrastructure
2-1

Kansai is connected to the world/Asia by many routes

６

2-2

Location of the Kansai region and transportation
infrastructure７

2-3

Kansai International Airport and other airports

８8Great Intellectual Cluster
3-1

4

7

What is Kansai?

University/Research Institute Clusters

Diversity of Foreign-Affiliated Companies in Kansai
8-1Foreign-Affiliated Companies in Kansai

22

8-2

Examples of Foreign-Affiliated Companies in Kansai

23

8-3

Interviews with Foreign-Affiliated Companies

24

９

9

Growth Industries in Kansai
4-1

Green Innovation（Storage Batteries)

10

4-2

Green Innovation（Hydrogen / Fuel Cells)

11

4-3

Life Science Innovation

12

10
Attractive Industries
5-1

Diverse Industries in a Diverse Region

13

5-2

Global niche top (GNT) companies

14

Well-equipped Business / Living Environment
6-1

Asia’s Leading International Conference Location

15

6-2

Comfortable Working and Living Environment

16

6-3

Kansai, a comfortable region to live in17

Creation of innovation
9-1

Creation of innovation

27

9-2

Examples of support for overseas startups

28

Support for Foreign Investment
10-1

Support Systems for Foreign Investment in Kansai

29

10-2

Support Programs for Foreign Investment by Local
Governments

30

10-3

Support Programs for Foreign Investment by theJapanese Government

34

10-4

Examples of Incentives Offered by Local Governments

35

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

1

Introduction

Attractiveness of Kansai as a destination for investment in Japan⚫
⚫
⚫

Kansai refers to an area comprised of seven prefectures (Fukui, Shiga, Kyoto, Osaka, Hyogo, Nara, and Wakayama).
As indicated in the “6 Reasons to Invest,” Kansai offers an excellent business environment.
International urban systems are being developed to prepare for Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan.

1

6 Reasonsto Invest in
Kansai

JAPAN

Japan’s second-largest economy after the Tokyo
metropolitan area
Kansai’s GDP is comparable to that of the Netherlands or Switzerland.

Advantageous location for Asian bases

2

Abundant routes and public transportation services are available
centered on KIX as the hub. Trade partners are mainly from Asia.

Strengths in the green and life science fields

KANSAI
Fukui

Hyogo

3

Development/production bases, universities andresearch institutes are concentrated and collaboratingwith each other.

“We can make anything” - Diverse industrial clusters

4

Procurement and collaboration with companies and startups with a highglobal market share are available.

5

An easy place to live, with abundant tourism resources featuring World
Cultural Heritage Sites and natural beauty.

6

Kansai is increasingly gaining attention as an international region.

Kyoto Shiga

Attractive living environment
Osaka
Nara

Wakayama

Venue for Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, JapanINVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

2

１ What is Kansai?

1-1

The Large Kansai Economy⚫ Kansai is an area that is located in the center of Japan and has a huge market with a population of approximately 21.4
million and a GDP of approximately $808 billion.

Comparison of population with major urban
areas of the world

JAPAN

Mexico City

21,505

Guangzhou/Foshan

21,48920,902

New York

Cairo

17%
Kansai21,377

KansaiKANSAI

Kansai’s population as apercentage of Japan’s total

19,787（Thousand people）※Figures for major world cities other than Kansai
include the population of surrounding cities.

Fukui(Source)Kansai: “Population based on the Basic Resident Register (as of January 1, 2022）”,Calculated from the Ministry of Internal Affairs andCommunications
World：“Demographia World Urban Areas 1７th Annual Edition：202１0６”,Demographia

Kyoto

Shiga

GDP comparison with countries around the
world

Hyogo
914.5

The Netherlands

Saudi Arabia

816.6

Kansai

808.0

Osaka

Kansai’s GDP as a percentage
of Japan’s total

16%
KansaiNara
TurkeyWakayama

Switzerland

779.7
736.0
（US＄billion）(Source)Kansai: “Report on Prefectual Accounts (FY2018) ”, Cabinet OfficeCalculated from the gross prefectual domestic product (nominal) (conversion rate: ￥110.88 per USD)World： “World Economic Outlook Database, April 202２” (2018), IMF

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

３

１ What is Kansai?

1-2

Trade Value by Region and Product⚫ Kansai has been selected as a location for business hubs in Asia due to its higher percentage of exports to and imports
from Asia than the rest of Japan.
⚫ Electric appliances, machinery and chemical products constitute a high percentage of exports from Kansai because many
global manufacturers in the fields of machinery （home appliances, motors, construction/agricultural machinery, etc.） andchemical products （medical products, plastics etc.） are located in the region.
Comparison of Exports by Region（202１）

Comparison of Imports by Region（2021）

Asia
67.6%

KansaiNorth America ＥＵ Others
14.2%
9.9% 8.2%

Asia
58.4%

KansaiNorth America ＥＵ
10.2%
12.9%

（Export Total Approx. 18.7 trillion yen）

Asia
54.3%

Japan

North America
ＥＵ
19.0%
9.2%

Others
17.5%（Export Total Approx. 15.6 trillion yen）

Asia
48.5%

Japan

North America ＥＵ
12.3%
11.1%

（Export Total Approx. 83.1 trillion yen）

Value of Exports from Kansai by Commodity(2021)

Foodstuffs
1.4%

Others18.6%

Others28.1%（Export Total Approx. 84.8 trillion yen）

Value of Imports to Kansai by Commodity(2021)

Mineral fuels
0.8%
Transportationequipment
1.6%

Others13.2%

Raw materials
1.6%

Others17.5%

Electric
appliances
16.3%

Electric
appliances
29.6%
Raw materials
5.3%

Transportationequipment
3.9%

Manufactured
goods
13.1%

Export Total Approx.
15.6 trillion yen

Export Total Approx.
18.7trillion yen

Chemicalproducts
14.9%

Chemicalproducts
16.3%

Machinery
9.6%

Machinery
21.5%

Foodstuffs
10.7%

Manufactured
goods
10.7%

Mineral fuels
12.0%（Source）“Trade Statistics FY２０２１（reconfirmed Report）" , Ministry of Finance Trade Statistics“Trade Statistics Kinki Area Appendix" (2021) （reconfirmed Report）, Osaka Customs-“Tsuruga Customs Branch Jurisdiction (Fukui Prefecture) Appendix" (2021)

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

４

１ What is Kansai?

1-3

Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan⚫

In Kansai, Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan will be held with the participation of various countries and internationalorganizations from all over the world.

▶Logo▶Official character
Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan▶ Theme▶ Concept

Designing Future Society for Our Lives

People’s Living Lab▶ Sub-themes▶ Goals▶ Saving Lives▶ Empowering Lives▶ Connecting Lives▶ 5 features
1．a venue where you can feel the sea and the sky
2．“the future that shines with life" gathers from all over theworld
3．you can see future technologies and social systems
4．you can enjoy full-scale entertainment
5．working on comfort, safety, security and sustainability

Event overview（tentative）
・Venue: Yumeshima Island, Osaka・Expected number of visitors: Approx. 28 million people
・Period : （Sunday） April 13- （Monday） October 13, 2025
Expo 2025 will be held for 184 days.

Nickname“MYAKU-MYAKU”▶ Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals （SDGs）▶ Achievement of Japan’s national strategy Society 5.0▶ TEAM EXPO 2025 program▶ The theme of the Osaka / Kansai Expo・ Realization of “Designing Future Society for Our Lives”
・ Expo collaboration co-creation activities that contribute to theachievement of SDGs

Schedule
December 2020
October-March 2021
2023
2023
April-October 2025

Guideline, Master Plan was decided
Dubai Expo held
Start of construction work for pavilions
Admission ticket advance sales start
Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai＊By Master Plans of Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition
Pictures provided by
Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

５

2 Highly Developed Infrastructure

2-1

Kansai is connected to the world/Asia by many routes⚫ In 2019, the number of flights in service per week reached a record of 1,570.
⚫ Kansai plays a core role in Asia, with airports and seaports able to handle large volumes of cargo as an international tradehub.

Details of international passenger flights by destination area

Regular foreign trade containers using Kansai ports
Asia and near areas
North America

7

Europe1

Others３.5

North America 54 flights weekly

Europe 35 flights weekly

15６.６＊including 28 flights to Hawaii(flights weekly)

Asia 1,298 flights weekly
KansaiInternational
Airport（Source） “Number of foreign trade container ships visiting Japan on regular sea lanes
Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism（ships/week） ”＊As of May 2021
＊Total of ports in Kansai served by regular oceangoing containers.

Others 46 flights weekly

Number of foreign trade vessels arriving in Kansai ports（Source）Compiled based on Kansai Airports materials＊Report for summer 2019 peak schedule （August）

Kansai is home to some of Japan’s top ports in terms ofvessel arrivals.

International Flight Network

Ine Port●

Airline companies

73

Countries （regions） served

26

Cities served

91

Weekly flights(including freight flights)

1,570

Ranked 3rdKobe（Hyogo）

４ｔｈ

Osaka（Osaka）

１９ｔｈ

Sakai Senboku（Osaka）(Source) “Table of vessel arrivals by port in Japan”
Kobe Customs (2021)

per week
Provided by Kansai Airports●Maizuru Port

Himeji Port●
Kobe Port●●Osaka Port
● Sakai Senboku Port

Wakayama
Shimotsu Port●
Hidaka Port●● Shingu PortINVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

６

2 Highly Developed Infrastructure

2-２

Location of the Kansai region and transportation infrastructure⚫ Kansai has advanced air, railroad, and road transportation networks.
⚫ Convenient access to all parts of Kansai and major cities in Japan is also possible.

Major transportation networks in Japan （Time required）

Major urban transportation networks in Kansai （Time required）
Kansai is geographically compact, allowing
travel from the center of Osaka tointernational cities such as Kyoto and Kobe in
about 30 minutes.

Sapporo/Shin-Chitose

Fukui

Kyoto
Shiga/Otsu
Hyogo/Shin-Kobe
Osaka■Airplane

NaraTokyo/Haneda

1 hourand 50 min.

Hiroshima

Sapporo/Shin-Chitose

Wakayama

Aichi/Nagoya
Osaka
Fukuoka/Hakata （Kansai International Airport/
Shin-Osaka）

1 hourand 10 min.

KansaiInternational

Airport1 hourand 15min.

■Shinkansen(bullet train)
2 hoursand 30 min.

Tokyo
/Haneda■Train（Minimum time using Shinkansen
or limited express services）
1 hour and 50
min.

Fukui

１ hour

３５ min.

Shiga/Otsu

Shiga/OtsuTokyo

6 hours and 15 min.

50 min.
Aichi/Nagoya

2 hours and 30 min.
1 hour and 30 min.
Hiroshima

2hours and 30 min.

３ hours
Fukui

Fukuoka/
Hakata■Expressway

ShinOsaka■Expressway

ShinOsaka

Tokyo

ShinOsaka

１５ min.

Aichi/Nagoya

ShinOsaka

7 hours and 45 min.

４５ min.

Hyogo/ShinKobe
５５ min.
Nara

Hyogo/ShinKobe

Nara

Hiroshima
１ hour and ２５min.

1 hour aｎd １０min.

Fukuoka/Hakata

Kyoto

Kyoto

５５ min.
4 hours and 15 min.

５０ min.

１５ min.

Fukuoka/Hakata

Wakayama

Wakayama

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

７

2 Highly Developed Infrastructure

2-３

Kansai International Airport and other airports⚫ Kansai International Airport is a maritime airport that is located in the center of Kansai, Japan and can be operated 24
hours a day.
⚫ In 2019, KIX provides direct access to 56 cities in Asia, and has 21 international LCCs connecting it to 29 additional cities,
the largest network access among all the other domestic airports.

⚫ It is a 24/7 international cargo hub, connecting Asia and the rest of the world.
The only one in Japan!

No.1 in the world! “World’s Best Airport Staff 202２”

The only one in Japan! 24-hour Airport with multiple 4000-meter runways.
International airport linking to 26 countries and 91 cities*2019 summer schedule, including cargo flights
In full 24-hour operation. Achieving lead-time reduction with the use of latenight flights!

Awarded first place in two international airport evaluation categories in “World’s Best Airport
Staff 202２”!

○World’s Best Airport for Baggage Delivery ２０２２
Evaluation of efficiency, waiting time, etc. regarding baggage delivery○World’s Best Low-Cost Terminal 2022
Evaluation of terminals specialized for LCC use＜Other nominations for KIX＞
○World’s Best Airport：Ranked 10th○World’s Best Airport Staff：Ranked 4th○World’s Best Airport（2-5 million passengers）：Ranked 3rd○World’s Cleanest Airports：Ranked 6th

and many other nominationsFirst in Japan! Smart Security System
In reducing security wait times through smart security.
Rechecking monitor（rechecking baggage
once judged to beunacceptable）

Diverter system（Filtering out
baggage judged to
be unacceptable）

X-ray scanner
Automatic trayreturnsystemAble to handle the baggage of four passengers
simultaneously

Shared constant temperature storage
for pharmaceutical products
Constant temperature export packaging andstorage of pharmaceutical products areavailable, and cool chain transportation ofpharmaceutical products is realized!

Airports in Kansai■Fukui Airport■Tajima Airport

Osaka International Airport (ITAMI)●
Kobe Airport■■Yao Airport●Kansai International Airport

Provided by Kansai Airports https://www.kansai-airport.or.jp/en/

Shared constant temperaturestorage for pharmaceuticalproduct

Cooling dollies(KIX-Medipac）■Nanki-Shirahama Airport(Source)West Japan Civil Aviation Bureau

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

8

３ Great Intellectual Cluster

3-1

University/Research Institute Clusters⚫ Kansai is home to a cluster of prestigious universities and research institutions.

⚫ Distinctive R&D bases have been formed and a large number of prestigious universities are clustered in the region. As
such, domestic and international industry-university cooperation is in progress.

Main research and development bases and overseas institutions
under industry-university cooperation in Kansai
Overseas institutions underindustry-university cooperation in
Kansai【Saito（International Culture Park）】＜Life Science Park＞

Oxford University Innovation/ OUI Japan office

National Institutes of Biomedical
Innovation, Health andNutrition/NIBIOHN
Bio-Incubator (in cooperation with
Osaka University, etc.)
Japanese Red Cross Kinki Block Blood
CenterVarious companies’ R&D facilities

Swissnex in Japan

Industry-University joint research amountIn terms of monetary amount, 24% of industry-university joint research throughout
Japan is conducted in Kansai, and the amount of money received per research
project is larger than the national average.
The amount of money received
per research projectIndustry－university joint
research across the nation（Value-basis）

Kansai2４％

Kansai

Japan

3,592

2,941
（thousand yen）

（Source）”Implementation status of industry-university cooperation and performance of joint
research（on an institution-by-institution basis）“ Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports,
Science and Technology （FY2020）【Harima Science Garden City】＜Large-scale researchfacilities＞
SPring-8/SACLA

Kansai Innovation Initiative【The Keihanna Science City】＜City of knowledge creation that is paving theway to the future＞

The Kansai Innovation Initiative promotes innovation creation activities by maximizing
the strengths of the Kansai region, including its unique cluster of universities andcompanies.

Cluster of over 140 public and corporate research institutes
Research Institute of Innovative Technology for the Earth/ RITE
Advanced Telecommunications Research Institute International/
ATR
National Institute of Information and Communications Technology/
NICT
The National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology / QST

SPring-8/SACLA ⓒRIKEN【Kobe Medical Industry Development Project】＜Largest Class Medical Bio Cluster in Japan＞
Cluster of approx. 350 state-of-the-art medical
research institutes, advanced specialty
hospitals, companies, and universities
RIKEN, supercomputer Fugaku
supercomputer Fugaku ⓒRIKEN（Source）Kansai Innovation Initiative
https://ksii.jp/

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

９

4 Growth Industries in Kansai

4-1

Green Innovation（Storage Batteries）⚫ Kansai is a major base for development and production in storage battery industries such as lithium-ion batteries andRedox Flow Batteries using vanadium.
⚫ The industrial cluster consists not only of battery manufacturers but also of related component/material and device
manufacturers, all working on the development and production of next-generation batteries.

Many lithium-ion battery production bases are locatedin Kansai!
Automotive (and consumer/industrial, etc.) Lithium-ion battery production baseConsumer/Industrial Lithium-ion battery production base
KYOCERA Corporation
Blue Energy Co., Ltd.
Lithium
Energy Japan
Prime Planet
Energy &Solutions, Inc.

Maxell, Ltd.
１８６５

Vehicle Energy
Japan Inc.

Panasonic EnergyCo., Ltd.

４６８０
Scheduled to be producedat Wakayama Plant

Panasonic EnergyCo., Ltd.
(Source)Survey by METI, Battery association of Japan
compiled based on private-public consultative meeting materials

Evaluation and testing facility supporting
materials development

２１７０

A production facility for new automotive lithium-ion
batteries(4680) will be installed at the Wakayama
Plant, with mass production scheduled to begin in
FY2023.

Consortium for Lithium-Ion Battery Technology and Evaluation
Center (LIBTEC)

the National Institute of Technology and Evaluation(NITE)
https://www.nite.go.jp/gcet/nlab/pamphlet.html

National LABoratory for advanced energy storage technologies
World‘s Largest Thermostatic "Large Storage Battery System Test and
Evaluation” Facility
Compatible with container-sized storage battery systems
The NLAB (storage battery evaluation center), located in Suminoe-ku,
Osaka, can safely handle combustion, explosion, and toxic gases
generated during the testing of lithium-ion batteries, allowing thetesting and evaluation of large storage battery systems to be
conducted in NLAB’s indoor type testing facility, regardless of
weather conditions. Various other functional tests such as vibration,
nail penetration, and drop tests are also available.
Further expansion of the testing facility is planned for this fiscal year
and beyond.

▲Equipped with prototype andevaluation equipment
To assist companies in developing new materials for lithium-ion
batteries, the consortium creates standard battery models inline with battery market trends, creates material evaluation
methods, and performs evaluation analysis. Thirty-fivecompanies, including battery manufacturers, material chemicalcompanies, and automotive companies, are involved as
members.

Long-life, High-safety Storage Battery “Redox Flow Battery”
The company develops and manufactures Redox Flow Battery, which
stabilize the power grid, achieve load leveling through power peakshifting, and enhance power resilience, all of which are necessary to
expand the introduction of renewable energy.

“Kansai Storage Battery Human Resource
Development Consortium” established
The Kansai region is home to a cluster of production bases, including many
manufacturers of storage batteries and manufacturing equipment as well as
suppliers of components, backed by the technology cultivated in traditional
industries such as textiles and pharmaceuticals. Kansai has an approximately 36%
share of manufactured goods shipments in the storage battery manufacturingindustry in Japan. In addition, there is a favorable environment for R&D atuniversities, LIBTEC, NITE, and AIST.
Together with the Battery Association of Japan (BAJ) and the Battery Association for
Supply Chain (BASC), the Kansai Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry has
established the “Kansai Storage Battery Human Resource Development Consortium,”
comprising industry, academia and government, with the aim of developing andsecuring human resources that meet industry needs and achieving the storage
battery industry strategy. Discussions and deliberations are underway on measuresthat should be taken.

Industry

Clarifying required human resources(skills, volume, timing, etc.)
Cooperation in curriculum development

LIBTEC Director-General Dr. Yoshino Akira
・2019 Nobel Laureate in Chemistry
・ Graduated from the Graduate Schools of Engineering
at Kyoto University and Osaka University
・ Honorary Fellow, Asahi Kasei Corporation

Academia

Curriculum
development,
education

Government
Deliberations onnecessary policies, etc.

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

1０

4 Growth Industries in Kansai

4-2

Green Innovation (Hydrogen/Fuel Cells)⚫ Kansai is home to many manufacturing companies, including heavy industries in port areas, and has high potential for thedemand and supply of hydrogen and fuel cells.
⚫ Various companies in Kansai are developing technologies in the hydrogen field by utilizing their core technologies and areleading the country in many hydrogen-related demonstration projects.
Current projects for public implementation of hydrogen in various parts of Kansai

Potential for hydrogen in Kansai
Population and industry concentration
Potential forhydrogen demand

Diverse and abundant cultural and tourism resources○Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.
High awareness of disaster risk reduction due to theexperience of the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake
Promotion of renewable energy introduction

Potential forhydrogen supply■Decarbonization of thermal power generation facilities through the development of hydrogengas turbine power generation technology

Presence of Strategic International Ports and Central
International Ports(Source) ”KANSAI Hydrogen Primer,” Kansai Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry

Major companies related to hydrogen and fuel cells in Kansai

MHI has developed combustors that can stably co-fire 30% hydrogen in large-frame
highly efficient gas turbines. By FY2025, the technologies will be verified at the power
generation validation facility at MHI’s Takasago Machinery Works, and then, plan to becommercialized.
The technologies will enable existing power plants to generate electricity by hydrogenfuel by replacing the combustors of the gas turbines and minimize costs formodification.
By converting a large amount of natural gas to hydrogen in large-frame gas turbines,
hydrogen production costs are expected to be reduced through economies of scale bystimulating a large amount of hydrogen demand in energy market.

■ Demonstration of a hydrogen supply chain model using the “H2One™ Multi Station”○Tsuruga City, Fukui Prefecture × Toshiba Energy Systems & Solutions
Corporation

Iwatani
Corporation

Panasonic
Corporation

Kawasaki Heavy
Industries, Ltd.

KyoceraCorporation

Air Water Inc.

Hitachi Zosen
Corporation

Demonstration of a hydrogen supply chain model using the “H2One™ Multi Station,”
Japan’s first on-site renewable energy hydrogen infrastructure system, was conductedin Tsuruga City. The system uses green hydrogen derived from renewable energy
sources to refuel fuel cell vehicles, charge electric vehicles, and supply electricity andhot water for evacuation centers during disasters. It contributes to a carbon-neutral
society as an infrastructure that produces green hydrogen from renewable energy andwater on site, and realizes a hydrogen supply chain that is locally produced for local
consumption.

■ Demonstration test of a fuel cell system for ships

International liquefied hydrogen supply chain○Yanmar Power Technology Co., Ltd.
The world’s first 70 MPa high-pressure hydrogen refueling was performed on ademonstration test boat equipped with a fuel cell system. In 2021, an operational test
was conducted on a route connecting the planned site of Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai
and the city’s coastal area. Sales of the fuel cell system for ships are planned for
2023.

The CO₂-free Hydrogen Energy Supply-chain Technology Research Association (HySTRA), consisting ofcompanies such as Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. and Iwatani Corporation, has successfully conducted atechnology demonstration using the world’s first liquefied hydrogen carrier “Suiso Frontier” to transportliquefied hydrogen, including that derived from brown coal, from Australia to Japan, and unload it at theliquefied hydrogen cargo handling terminal “Hy touch Kobe” (Kobe City).
Following this technology demonstration, a group of companies including Iwatani Corporation and ENEOS
Corporation, led by Japan Hydrogen Energy Co., Ltd. established by Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd., will receive
funding from the Green Innovation Fund to conduct a commercialization demonstration to realize large-scalehydrogen importation.

■ Data collection of hydrogen-related companies in Kansai( PDF)
https://www.kansai.meti.go.jp/51shiene/smart_energy_initiative/hydrogen_dat
a/00_zentai_english.pdf

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

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4 Growth Industries in Kansai

4-3Life Science Innovation⚫

The Biocommunity Kansai (BiocK), based in Kansai, was certified as a Global Biocommunity by the Cabinet Office inApril 2022.

⚫

Since Kansai has long been a center of medicine, it is home to many pharmaceutical company headquarters, foreignaffiliated companies, and medical equipment manufacturers closely working with each other.

⚫

Research in regenerative medicine, disease elucidation, and drug discovery is being conducted on a daily basis,including the creation of the world’s first therapeutic agent through clinical research applying iPS cell technology.

About Biocommunity Kansai

A large cluster of pharmaceutical company
headquarters

Spreading a bio-first approach to build a Global
Biocommunity and realize a sustainable society

VisionSumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd.

Concentration of research and development bases
and core institutions

Ｋａｎｓａｉ Ｂｒａｎｃｈ of Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency(PMDA)Creating an ultimate ecosystem for the bio-fields in Kansai

Goal

Shionogi & Co., Ltd.

Shifting from “Accumulation” to “Collaboration”

Key word

Kansai Branch of Japan Agency for Medical Research andDevelopment（AMED）

Shifting from “Accumulation” to “Collaboration”
✓
✓

Name
Abbreviation:

Biocommunity Kansai
BiocK

Facilitating innovation

Industry-university-government
collaboration projects

BiocK
subcommittee✓

Foundation✓

July 1st, 2021
Certified as a Global Biocommunity by
the Cabinet Office on April 22, 2022

Academia

Overseas
bioclusters

BiocK
subcommittee

BiocK
subcommittee

Company
Research
institutes

Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University

BiocK
subcommittee

BiocK

Research
centers

Kinki Bio-Industry Development Organization
Urban Innovation Institute✓✓✓Actionplan

Facilitating innovation
Creating networks
Disseminating information

Regional
biocommunities

BiocK
subcommittee

Disseminating information

Existing consortiums
and study groups✓✓✓

Making a community focusing on
industry
Strengthening collaboration across all of
the biocommunity
Leading new innovation

Ventures

BiocK
subcommittee

Publicadministration

Relatedorganization

BiocK
subcommittee（Source） BiocK HP “BiocK Summary Documentation”

Share of production value in quasidrug industry

Kansai
２８.4％

Japan
71.6％

（Source）”Statistics of Production by Pharmaceutical Industry”
Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (FY2020）
production of quasi-drugs, import, shipment, and inventory value by region■

Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

Medical equipment manufacturers concentrated
in this area

RIKEN

Ｐｒｏｖｉｄｅｄ ｂｙCenter for iPS Cell Research and Application,
Kyoto University

A large cluster of pharmaceutical company
headquarters

Share of products manufactured andshipped in the pharmaceutical industry

Kansai
25.5％

Japan
74.5％

NIPRO CORPORATION

AstraZeneca K.K.

OMRON Corporation

Eli Lilly Japan K.K.

SHIMADZU CORPORATION

Bayer Yakuhin, Ltd.

SYSMEX CORPORATIONICON plc(Source) "Census of Manufacture Area Statistics Table" Ministry of Economy,
Trade and Industry (FY2020)

Kansai Life Science Cluster PR Booklet
This booklet introduces the Kansai region
by integrating life science-related information
held by each prefecture in Kansai!

（ＰＤＦ）

KOBE Biomedical Innovation Cluster

Business
association

BiocK
subcommittee

Creating networks

How thecommunity
should be【Saito（International Culture Park）】＜Life Science Park＞
ONO PHARMACEUTICAL CO., LTD.

https://www.kansai.meti.go.jp/31toukou/_INVEST_support_eng/lifescien
ce/2020lifescience_en.pdf

Strengths in the life science field in Kansai ～ World-leading industry-academia accumulation ～With a large-scale accumulation of world-leading research institutes, universities, and companies in the field of life science, various
clusters are within reach of the three cities of Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe, within about 30 minutes to 1 hour of the large-scale accumulationof the Kansai region, making the whole Kansai area a large-scale life science cluster.

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

1２

5 Attractive Industries

5-１

Diverse Industries in a Diverse Region

Industrial field by region in Kansai
関西の地域別産業集積

Composition ratio (%) of Kansai’s (nominal)
GDP by industry

Fukui
⚫
⚫

A variety of industrial fields are concentrated in Kansai, fromupstream to downstream, including materials, parts processing,and cutting-edge product manufacturing.

Lacquerware manufacturing industry
Textile industry (knit fabric manufacturing industry,dyeing arrangement industry)

Shiga
⚫

⚫

Electrical machinery and equipment manufacturingindustry (consumer electrical machinery, etc.)
Glass and product manufacturing industry⚫

OthersManufacturing

24%

22%

Transport &National share of manufactured goods shipments

Public administration,
education, humanhealth, and social

postal services

6%

Textile industry（29.3%）

Chemical industry（20.6%）

Tanned leather,tanned leather
product, furmanufacturingindustry（30.3%）

Steel（22.9%）

Metal productmanufacturingindustry（22.1%）

Machinery andequipment
manufacturingindustry for general
purpose（29.0%）

Electricalmachinery andequipment
manufacturingindustry（22.1%）

Other
manufacturing（28.6%）

work activities

Kyoto
⚫

“We can make anything”: a manufacturing industry hub

Electronic component / device / electronic circuit
manufacturing industry
Textile industry (dyeing and sorting industry, textile
industry)

Osaka

16%
Professional, scientific& technical, andbusiness support
services

7%

Wholesale &Real estate12%

retailing

13%(Source) “Report on Prefectural Accounts" ,by the Cabinet Office（FY2017)(Source)“2019 Census of Manufacture Regional Statistics Table”, METI
*Note:Figures in parentheses indicate Kansai’s share of the national total⚫
⚫
⚫

Other service industry
Various product wholesale businesses, etc.
Transportation machinery and equipment
manufacturing industry

Hyogo
⚫
⚫

Tanned leather, tanned leather product, furmanufacturing industry (Tanned leather
manufacturing industry, bag manufacturing industry)
General-purpose machinery and equipment
manufacturing industry (boiler / prime mover
manufacturing industry)

Nara
⚫
⚫

Fur manufacturing
Textile industry (Kimono (Japanese clothing) / otherclothing manufacturing industry, knit fabricmanufacturing industry)

Kansai-Asia Environmental and Energy-Saving■■ Business Promotion Forum （Team E-Kansai）(Executive office：Global Environment Centre Foundation)
A platform for Kansai-based companies and organizations that possess excellent
environmental and energy-saving technologies and are interested in expanding theirbusiness in Asia (approximately 190 members; companies from outside the region canalso join)
・ Provides Asian countries with appropriate solutions by combining the advanced
technologies and know-how of member companies from various fields, such as water
treatment, waste treatment, air pollution control, and energy-saving
・ Supported by the Kansai Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry and 29 partnerorganizations (JETRO, JICA, local governments, etc.)

Kansai manufacturing SMEs
Exceptional and fast-selling
products and technologies aswell as new and profitablebusiness models in Kansai are
included in the“MONODZUKURI” New Selectionin KANSAI.
Selected companies will receive
individual support for sales
channel development throughparticipation in exhibitions andbusiness meetings, as well as
for resolving management
issues.

Wakayama⚫
⚫
⚫

Textile industry (knit fabric manufacturing industry)
Textile machinery manufacturing industry
Petroleum product / coal product manufacturingindustry (lubricating oil / grease manufacturingindustry)(Source) Based on the data of the Statistics Bureau of the Ministry of Internal Affairs
and Communications “2016 (Heisei28) Economic Census Activity Survey", theindustries with high employee number specialization coefficient are listed (created by
Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, Kansai Bureau).

http://tea
m-ekansai.jp/
en/Framework for
Activities ofTeam E-Kansai

https://www.kansai.meti.
go.jp/35sangyo/shinseihin/2021/shinsensassi2021all_eng.pdf“MONODZUKURI” New Selection in KANSAI 2021

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

1３

5 Attractive Industries

5-2

Global niche top (GNT) companies
Companies with high global share are concentrated in Kansai

Hokkaido, Tohoku
3%

Although the size of markets for GNT
companies is not particularly large, they havea dominant share in each market and are an
important part of the global supply chain.
Approximately 30% of GNT companies arelocated in Kansai.
In Kansai, there are many other small andmedium-sized enterprises with internationallyrecognized technical capabilities, making it
easy to find collaborative partners.

Kyushu, Okinawa
3%

Chugoku, Shikoku
9%

Chubu
18%
Kansai
27%（Source）2020 Global Niche Top Companies Selection 100 List by METI

Kanto
40%

■ MITSUYA CO.,LTD.（Fukui Pref.）⚫ Product with a high global market share
Thermoplastic prepreg sheets⚫ Feature
For use as a component of aircraft engines,
the company has developed a composite
material that is lightweight, very strong,and highly elastic, and has achieved highspeed mass-production.
Applications in other fields are also underway.

http://www.e-mitsuya.jp/■ FUTA-Q，Ltd. (Kyoto Pref.)■ KOHOKU KOGYO Co., Ltd.（Shiga Pref.）⚫ Product with a high global market share
Small-diameter pipewith an inner diameter of 6 mm or less,made of β-titanium alloy⚫ Product with a high global market share
High-reliability optical devices forsubmarine cables⚫ Feature
This product takes advantage of theresilience of β-titanium alloy (springy
and can be bent back into its original
shape).
Over 30,000 units are used annually inmore than 200 countries around the world.

https://futaku.co.jp/en/

Thermoplastic prepreg sheets⚫ Feature
Advanced technology and high reliability of
the company’s optical devices forsubmarine cables have been highly praisedby customers for years, and the company
has gained an overwhelming share of themarket.
Those products support the world’s
information and telecommunications
network.

High-reliability opticalisolator

https://www.kohokukogyo.co.jp/en/
INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

1４

6 Well-equipped Business / Living Environment

6-1

Asia’s Leading International Conference Location⚫
⚫

Kansai has a large number of leading international conference halls, and Kansai is Asia’s leading international
conference location.
Japan hosted the largest number of international conferences in Asia and Oceania in 2019, of whichapproximately 30% were hosted in Kansai.

Number of international conferences held in Asia andOceania（2019)539 527*Top 10 countries/regions

Provided by Kobe City272 248
163 162 158 149 137

CHN

JPN

Kyoto International
Conference Center

Kobe International
Conference Center

AUS

KOA TWN

THA

IND

SGP

MYS

Provided by Kyoto International Conference Center

Kyoto

Kobe
95

IDN

Number of international conferences hosted by
Japanese cities （2019）

City name

NumberDomestic
rankingInt'lranking

Tokyo

131

1

10

Kyoto

67

2

35

Kobe

35

3

82

Fukuoka

28

4

108

Sapporo

25

5

117

Osaka

21

6

143

Yokohama

21

6

143

Nagoya19

8

159

Sendai

17

9

176

Nara

14

10

203

Nara Prefectural
Convention Center

Osaka International
Convention Center（Grand Cube Osaka）

Japan’s biggest international
exhibition space,
INTEX Osaka
Nara Kasugano International ForumIRAKA Noh Theatre

Provided by
Osaka Prefectural Government

Provided by INTEX Osaka

Provided by Nara Prefecture

Osaka

Nara

（Source） “Country & City Rankings”, “2019 ICCA Statistics Report

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

1５

6 Well-equipped Business / Living Environment

6-2

Comfortable Working and Living Environment
Low cost

Consultation counter for foreigners⚫ Office rent

A full range of consultation desks for general living support is available in each local
government, such as multilingual status of residence, labor / work, medical care,welfare, and education.
(Public interest incorporated foundation) Kyoto
Prefectural International Center
https://www.kpic.or.jp/english.html

241 227(Public interest incorporated foundation) Osaka
Foundation of International Exchange
https://www.ofix.or.jp/english/

164
74

73

Osaka

Soul

Paris

Tokyo

Singapore

LondonHong Kong

New York

Beijing

88
San Francisco

118 110 100 97

235

213

179

(Public interest incorporated foundation)
International House, Osaka
https://www.ih-osaka.or.jp/english/(Public interest incorporated foundation) Hyogo
International Association
https://www.hyogo-ip.or.jp/en/index.html(Public interest incorporated foundation) Kobe
International Community Center
https://www.kicc.jp/en(Public interest incorporated foundation) Fukui
International Association
https://www.f-i-a.or.jp/en/

Shiga Foreign Residents Information Center
https://www.s-i-a.or.jp/en/counsel

Nara Prefecture International Citizens Center
https://www.pref.nara.jp/31956.htm⚫ Personnel expenses(Public interest incorporated foundation) KYOTO
CITY INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION
https://www.kcif.or.jp/en(Public interest incorporated foundation)
Wakayama International Exchange Center
http://www.wixas.or.jp/english/

Providing living information for people from overseas
Based on the decision by the Council for the Promotion of Foreign Direct Investment
in Japan, the JETRO website collects and provides living information on hospitals,
banks, cell phones, electricity and gas supply, and more.

152
100 93

75

69

67

33
Beijing

Soul

Hong Kong

Singapore

Osaka

Tokyo

LondonParis

New York

San Francisco「Living in Japan」
https://www.jetro.go.jp/en/invest/setting_u
p/living.html
ＪＥＴＲＯ
ＨＰ「Attractive Local Regions in Japan」
https://www.jetro.go.jp/en/invest/region/(Source) JETRO Investment Cost Comparison Model Case (Cost Estimate Guide)
Comparison with each city with the cost in Tokyo set at 100

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

1６

6 Well-equipped Business / Living Environment

6-3Kansai, a comfortable region to live in
Examples of companies providing lifestyle support to foreign
visitors and residents in Japan

International schools (International Baccalaureate-accredited
schools)
There are 18 International Baccalaureate-accredited schools in Kansai.
Graduates of those high schools obtain university admissions qualification in
Japan and many other countries around the world.

YOLO JAPAN CORPORATION
https://www.yolo-japan.com/en/

Yolo Japan Corporation is a one-stop
provider of necessary services forforeigners to settle in Japan after
entering the country. Approximately
220,000 people from 226 countries andregions use its services.
In September 2019, it opened Yolo Base,a facility combining hotel, restaurant andevent space functions, in Naniwa-ku,
Osaka, with the aim of using it as a basefor creating liveliness where people ofvarious nationalities can gather.

Number of International Baccalaureateaccredited schools in Kansai

Kyusyu・Okinawa
６
Chubu
７

Shiga１、Kyoto４、Osaka７、Nara１、Hyogo５

Hokkaido・Tohokoku
８

Chugoku・Shikoku
１０International Baccalaureate
Kanto
５３

An educational program implemented in over 5,000
schools in more than 159 countries and regions aroundthe world to cultivate the skills and abilities needed torespond to globalization

Kansai
１８(Source) Website of the MEXT consortium for promotion of IB education in Japan

Dream Catcher Inc.

The Global Liveability Index 2021

https://dreamcatcher.co.jp/
Osaka was ranked the second most livable city worldwide in 2021 （overallrating）. Osaka's stability and healthcare were highly rated.
Remote medical interpretation
service by medical
interpreters with specializedskills and knowledge

Dream Catcher Inc. is working to
improve the medical interpretation
environment to ensure the safety andsecurity of foreign visitors andresidents in Japan. Since multilingual
services at medical institutions
require specialized interpreters, asubsidiary established by thecompany provides services such as
remote medical interpretation,
hospital guidance, and medical
interpreter training. The company ismaking efforts to improve the medical
interpretation environment, aiming to
make it a safe and secure
infrastructure for foreign visitors andresidents in Japan.

Ranking

City Name

Overall rating

Stability

Healthcare

Culture &Environment

Education

Infrastructure

1

Auckland

96.0

95

95.8

97.9

100.0

92.9

2

Osaka

94.2

100

100

83.1

91.7

96.4

3

Adelaide

94.0

95

100

83.8

100.0

96.4

4

Wellington

93.7

95

91.7

95.1

100.0

89.3

4

Tokyo

93.7

100

100

84.0

91.7

92.9

（Source） “The Global Liveability Index 2021”, The Economist＊Note: Maximum index of 100

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

1７

7 Attractive Travel Area

7-1

Kansai, Satisfying All Kinds of Tourists' Interests⚫ As the birthplace of a wide variety of performing arts and cultural attractions, Kansai boasts a high concentration of all
kinds of tourist attractions, including many World Heritage sites, varied food cultures, seasonal natural beauty, anddiverse hands-on activities.

Kansai at the top of the world rankings

The best major cities in the world

Ranked 2nd: Osaka
Ranked 3rd: Kyoto（Source）“The Best Cities in the World_ 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards”,
Condé Nast Traveler

A wealth of World Cultural Heritage
Kansai is home to intangible cultural assets such as kabuki, Noh, and ningyo joruri (puppet theater).
(Source) “Statistical Abstract 2021 edition” MEXT

Himeji Castle
Unique Japanese castle withwooden structure surrounded bystone castle walls and white
earthen walls

Historic Monuments ofAncient Kyoto（Kyoto City, Uji City, Otsu City）
Grand temples, mountain villas, and gardens
taking advantage of the undulating naturallandscapeMozu-Furuichi Kofun Group(Sakai City, Habikino City,
Fujiidera City)
Diversity in size and forms

Japan

Travel and tourism development index 2021

Ranked 1st: Japan（Source）“Travel&Tourism Development Index 2021”, World Economic
Forum
Provided by Himeji City

Kyoto

World's most satisfying tourist city
(Best City category)

Ranked 1st: Kyoto City
（Source）“Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards 2020 :Top city”, Wanderlust

Provided by Sakai City

Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage
Routes in the Kii Mountain
Range

Historic Monuments ofAncient Nara

Areas cultivating the spirit of nature
worship since ancient times

Nara Era palace remains, temples, andshrines

Japan

Countries/regions people want to visit forsightseeing

Ranked 1st: Japan
Provided by KANSAI Tourism Bureau

Buddhist Monumentsin the Horyu-ji Area
The world’s oldest wooden structure

Provided by Nara Visitors Bureau

Tourist destinations in Japan people want to visit

Ranked 4th: Osaka
Ranked 5th: Kyoto
Ranked 9th: Kobe
Ranked 10th: Nara

IC card type ticket with special benefits"KANSAI ONE PASS"This pass is exclusively for foreign visitors to Japan, allowing access to all major public
transportation services in Kansai without the need to purchase a new ticket.
Access the KANSAI ONE PASS,
and receive discount services by presenting your pass!

(Source) “DBJ/JTBF Survey of Tourist Travel to Japan from Asia, Europe, the UnitedStates, and Australia” Development Bank of Japan Inc.

https://kansaionepass.com/en/©Tezuka Productions

Provided by KANSAI Tourism Bureau

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

1８

7 Attractive Travel Area

7-2

Kansai’s world-class tourist attractions
Tourist routes～8Areas, 8Stories～

Impressive trips to Kansai

Beyond the main tourist venues in Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, there are other attractive areas
throughout the Kansai region.

Kansai has many refreshing and unique places to visit.

Tea plantations in Ujitawara (Kyoto)

Takeda Castle Ruins (Hyogo)

Omihachiman Riverboat Tour(Shiga)

HARIMA

WEST LAKE BIWA
& FUKUIFUKUI • EAST LAKE BIWA
& MIE

Avenue of Metasequoias(shiga)

The 48 Waterfalls of Takihata(Osaka)

Daimon-zaka Slope on Kumano Kodo(Wakayama)

KII PENINSULA

Hashigui-iwa Rocks(Wakayama)

Nara Park(Nara)

KOBE • AWAJI ISLAND& TOKUSHIMA

SAN'IN COAST

ISE & NARA

TAMBA

Kaiun Bungy (Nara)
Provided by KANSAI Tourism Bureau“IMPRESSIVE KANSAI”■

KANSAI Videos

Kansai Regional Tourism Website
The KANSAI Guide
The KANSAI Guide - The Origin of Japan, KANSAI https://www.the-kansai-guide.com

For more information on the video, please visit this website

https://www.the-kansaiguide.com/en/
videos/item/dr
eam_online/

Tourist routes～8Areas,8Stories～
https://www.the-kansai-guide.com/en/exciting/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DF7i8jXC4rw

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

1９

7 Attractive Travel Area

7-3

Kansai’s world-class regional brands

Kansai offers a variety of regional brands that attract the world

体験

In Kansai, many attractive local assets such as local industries, traditional
crafts, and agricultural products that make use of regional specialties, areextending their brand presence.

Sabae Megane(Sabae City, Fukui)
Tango textiles(Kyotango City, Kyoto)
Provided by Tango Textile
Industrial Association

Wazuka Tea(Wazuka Town, Kyoto)

Provided by the Fukui Optical Association

Provided by Wazuka Town

“Teatopia Wazuka,”
where tea is a part of people’s lives

Black soybeans of Tamba Sasayama, etc.
(Tamba Sasayama City, Hyogo)
Provided by Tamba Sasayama City

Shigaraki ware
(Koka City, Shiga)
Provided by Koka City

Banshu-ori textiles(Nishiwaki City/Taka Town, Hyogo)
Provided by Public Interest Incorporated Foundation
Kita-Harima Industrial Development Organization

Nara Sake(Nara)
Provided by Nara Prefecture
Sake Brewery Association

Wazuka Town is listed in the “Most Beautiful Villages
in Japan” and is recognized as a Japanese Heritagesite because of the landscape of tea plantations thatcover all the mountains extending throughout thetown.
In addition, the fog caused by the temperaturefluctuation between day and night envelops the tea
leaves and brings out the flavor of the tea. This is
the key to the taste of Uji tea, which has long been
traded at a high price.

Kyoto Obubu Tea Farms, LLC（Recipients of the “Hanayaka Increasing the Appeal of KANSAI Award”）

Sake rice of Miki, etc.
(Miki City, Hyogo)
Provided by Miki City

Koryo socks(Koryo Town, Nara)
Provided by Koryo Town

Cuisine and fragrance of Awaji(Awaji Island, Hyogo)

Senshu towel(the Senshu region, Osaka)
Provided by Osaka Towel Industry Association

With the mission of “bringing Japanese tea to the world”, the company is engaged in tea
cultivation and production from its tea plantations, the manufacture and sale of tea
products, tea plantation tourism, and the operation of the tea plantation owner program,
thereby promoting Japanese tea, including Wazuka tea.
It is also actively attracting inbound tourists by creating contents that mainly target
Westerners and wealthy people. Business development for inbound tourists is conducted
through the distribution of videos of tea plantation scenery and the operation of a
French-language website.

Wakayama knit
(Wakayama City, Wakayama)
Provided by the Wakayama Knits
industrial Association

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

２０

7 Attractive Travel Area

7-4

Facilities to experience the culture and technology of Kansai
Kansai Open Factory Tours

A Guide to industrial facilities you can visit in Kansai

Throughout the Kansai area, numerous initiatives enable visitors from overseas toexperience the advanced craftsmanship, techniques, and technologies ofJapanese “monodzukuri” manufacturing companies and interact with craftsmen
and manufacturers through factory tours and community-based exchange events.

You can tour about 500 industrial facilities in the Kansai region.
（factories, corporate museums, hands-on craft workshops, and other suchinstitutions and experiences）
Listed in Japanese and English by industry.

https://designweek-kyoto.com/
This is an initiative to open up local manufacturing and crafts sites
rooted in the community in Kyoto Prefecture to the public and promote
diverse interactions.
Tours and other events are held throughout the year, in addition to
public events several days a year.

https://www.kansai.meti.go.jp/english/tvlist/tvtopeng.html

The photos show scenes from DESIGN WEEK TANGO 2021.

Facilities to experience the culture of Kansai

Udatsu Paper &Craft Museum in
Echizen Washi
Village

Inoue Butsudan
Ten

Kyoto Unrakugama kiln

Sakai Traditional
Crafts Museum(Hikone City, Shiga)（Kyoto City, Kyoto）（Sakai City, Osaka）（Echizen City, Fukui）

Japanese drums

Samurai and ninja

Confetti Candy-Making
Workshop

Provided by Taiko-Center Co., Ltd.

Provided by Japan Tatedo Assosiation

Provided by Osaka-Toka Co., Ltd. (TheKingdom of Compeito)

Stay and sight-see in
Kayabuki-no-Sato

Green tourism hands-on
experience programs

Accommodations that let
you experience local
everyday life

Provided by the Kyoto Miyama Tourism
Association

Provided by the Akitsuno Agricultural
Corporation

Provided by Sekai Hotel Co., Ltd.

Recipients of the “Hanayaka
Increasing the Appeal of
KANSAI Award”

Sawanotsuru Sake
Museum（Old Japanese
Sake Brewery)

Kinkoen(Nara City, Nara)

Yuasa Soy Sauce,Ltd. Kuyo-gura（Yuasa Town,
Wakayama）(Kobe City, Hyogo)(Source) Excerpt from recipients of the “Hanayaka Increasing the Appeal of KANSAI Award”
https://www.kansai.meti.go.jp/3-1toukou/toukou_award_outline.html

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

２１

8 Diversity of Foreign-Affiliated Companies in Kansai

8-1Foreign-Affiliated Companies in Kansai⚫ U.S. and European companies comprise the largest portion of foreign-affiliated companies in Kansai. Asian companies also
comprise 30% which is larger than the national average of 20.3%.
⚫ By type of industry, foreign-affiliated companies in the manufacturing sector （machinery, chemicals, pharmaceuticals,
precision machinery, etc.） comprise approximately 33% of the industry, a significantly larger percentage compared to thenational average of 20.5%.

Companies by region (2022)

Companies by industry（2022）

Other areas
4%

Others28%

Other wholesale
13%

North America
22%

Total 229

Europe44%

Machinerywholesale
13%
Steel and metal
wholesale3%

Total 229
Chemicals
7%

Precision machinerywholesale
3%

Asia
30%

Machinery
7%

Electrical machinery
4%

Other manufacturing
5%

Other services
4%
Chemicals wholesale
Electrical machinery4%
wholesale

Information, systems, software
5%

4%（Source）”Foreign Companies Database 2022” ,Toyo Keizai Inc*Foreign-affiliated: Foreign capital of 20% or more (including branch offices, etc.)

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

２２

8 Diversity of Foreign-Affiliated Companies in Kansai

8-2

Examples of Foreign-Affiliated Companies in KansaiLife science

Accelerators and Innovation Consulting

Bayer Yakuhin, Ltd

Shiga, Osaka

Germany

Rainmaking Innovation Japan LLC.

Osaka

UK

AstraZeneca K.K.

Shiga, Osaka

UK

Plug and Play Japan

Kyoto, Osaka

USA

Abbott Japan LLC

Kyoto, Osaka, Hyogo

USA

Rising Startups

Osaka

USA

ELI LILLY JAPAN K.K.

Hyogo

USA

Osteon Digital Japan

Osaka

Australia

CRUST JAPAN K.K.

Osaka

Singapore

ICON plc

Osaka

IrelandTÜV Rheinland Japan Ltd.

Osaka

Germany

IKEA Japan K.K.

Osaka, Hyogo

Netherlands

Procurement bases

Distribution and services

B&M Japan Co., Ltd

Osaka

Hong Kong

Gripple Japan K.K.

Hyogo

UK

SHOBIDO CO.,LTD

Osaka

Macao

Haier Japan Sales Co., Ltd.

Osaka

China

Chitose Trading Co., Ltd.

Osaka

China

Tata Consultancy Services Japan

Osaka

India

DAIKO TRADING CO. , LTD

Osaka

China

SIA Engineering Japan Corporation(SIAEJ)

Osaka

Singapore

Ruten, Inc.

Osaka

TaiwanAIG Japan Holdings Kabushiki Kaisha

Osaka

USA

Salesforce Japan Co.,Ltd.

Osaka, Wakayama

USA

R&D and production bases
BASF Japan Ltd.

Osaka, Hyogo

Germany

RECARO Japan Co., Ltd.

Shiga

Germany

Evergrande Group

Osaka

China

Nestlé Japan Ltd.

Osaka, Hyogo

Switzerland

Caterpillar Japan LLC

Fukui, Shiga, Kyoto,
Osaka, Hyogo, Nara,
Wakayama（Source）”Foreign Companies Database 2022”
Toyo Keizai Inc. and the company data obtained from JETRO and O-BIC＊The companies listed here have their HQ, a sales base or a research institute in Kansai.
Prefecture names in the table indicate the location of bases in the Kansai area.
(Underlined: the prefecture where the head office in Japan is located)
Country/region names in the table indicate the location of the parent company.

○The website of the Kansai Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry features interviews
with foreign-affiliated companies operating in Kansai.

USA
Examples of foreign-affiliated companies in Kansai
https://www.kansai.meti.go.jp/3-1toukou/invest_kansai/en/e_companies.html

P&G Japan Limited

Shiga, Osaka, Hyogo

USA

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

２3

8 Diversity of Foreign-Affiliated Companies in Kansai

8-3Interviews with Foreign-Affiliated Companies (CRUST JAPAN K.K.)
Rescuing food loss and waste and upcycling them into delicious products
Background of expansion into Kansai
While Singapore, where the company was founded, is a leading country in the fields of finance andtechnology, the country itself is not so large. In order to reduce food loss and waste, it is necessary to
conduct business in countries where food waste is more prevalent, so we considered overseas locations.
Japanese people are sensitive to mottainai, and a high percentage of them engage in recycling, so we thoughtthat our business of adding value to items to be discarded would match the spirit of the Japanese people.
Another major reason was that the founding executives originally lived in Osaka and had a goodunderstanding of the city’s characteristics.

Attractiveness of Kansai
Kansai is home to many small and medium-sized companies that make decisions quickly, and there is a cultureof openness and acceptance of new cultures. These factors support us in planning and launching new
projects.
In addition, with the World Expo scheduled to be held in 2025, this is an attractive area where many inboundtourists will gather, and is an ideal area to start something new. The energy in Kansai is rising toward the Expoand we hope to link it to our own growth.

KIN-IND 4.0 & Agri

Effect of expansion
We were introduced to many companies through support organizations in Osaka. As a startup running anenvironmental impact-conscious business, we sometimes attract preconceived notions. However, we were
happy that we were able to meet with various companies smoothly through referrals from the local
government. Winning an award for our business plan at Hack Osaka, a global business plan competition, wasalso an opportunity to expand our network. We are planning a new project to produce non-alcoholic
beverages from fruits and vegetables in addition to bread and rice, and would like to work with more people in
the future.

Outline of company
Business overview

•
•
•
•

Production and sales of alcoholic/non-alcoholic beverages using surplus
ingredients
A food tech company established in Singapore in 2019
In order to reduce the annual 1.3 billion tons of wasted food worldwide, we
rescue food loss and waste (*surplus *food that can be eaten but will bediscarded)
and add value to it by transforming it into other products, aiming to realize acircular economy and a more sustainable society.

Company
name

CRUST JAPAN K.K.

Type ofpresence

Secondary investment

Address

Hankyu Five Annex Building GVH#5,
1-12 Kakuda-cho, Kita-ku, Osaka
City, Osaka

Websitehttps://www.crust-group.com/

KIN-TechBrewing beer from bread that would
otherwise be discarded to reduce foodloss and waste* Pictures provided by the company

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

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8 Diversity of Foreign-Affiliated Companies in Kansai

8-3Interviews with Foreign-Affiliated Companies (MB Japan Co., Ltd.)
Providing added value through appropriate and prompt after-sales service
Background of expansion into Kansai
Before investing in Japan, we had an opportunity to meet with Japanese customers at an overseas exhibition,and that was when we saw the potential for needs in Japan. Therefore, we concluded that the best way tooffer our products and customer-oriented services was to have a base in Japan, and we decided to expand
our business there.
In the process of setting up operations in Kobe, we were supported by Kobe City and JETRO Kobe, which
provided us with a variety of information and a subsidy for office rent. The generous support provided by
Kobe City and JETRO Kobe in establishing our office was the catalyst for our decision to locate in Kobe.

Attractiveness of Kansai

KIN-IND 4.0 & Agri

Kansai is not as urban as Tokyo, but has a large population and convenient transportation. In addition, Kobe
has the sea and mountains, which are similar to Italy. This is another attractive point. When we searched for
JETRO Kobe on the Internet and consulted with them about setting up an office, they responded promptly.
After we first established in Tokyo, we decided to look at Kansai as our second base because of the prompt
assistance from support organizations for foreign-affiliated companies. Kansai’s attractiveness also lies in
the fact that it has a solid system for accepting foreign companies.

Effect of expansion
With being well established in the territory, we could obtain many advantages such as the increase oftransactions with the construction industry in Japan. In addition, our expansion into Japan has enabled us toprovide our own product manuals and after-sales service all in Japanese. Although the products we handle
are the same worldwide, we are now able to strategically market our products in Japan by focusing on aftersales service in Japanese.
Looking to the future, we plan not only to consolidate our market leading position and expand theaddressable market in the mobile crushing space, but also to look at expanding with our other productcategories.

Outline of company
Business overview•••

The parent company, MB S.p.A., was established in Italy in 2001.
The company established its Japanese corporation in 2010 and opened its
Kobe office in 2018.
MB Japan is engaged in the import and sale in Japan of attachments and partsfor construction machinery that enable the use and reuse of materials
generated on site, such as rocks and concrete, by crushing, grinding, sortingand separating them.

Company
name

MB Japan Co., Ltd. (Kobe Office)Type ofpresence

Secondary investment

Address

Shosen Mitsui Building 617,
5 Kaigan-dori, Chuo-ku, Kobe City,
Hyogo

Websitehttps://mbcrusher.jp/

KIN-TechPadding Bucketthat meets the three requirements ofcompactness, work efficiency, and versatility* Pictures provided by the company

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

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8 Diversity of Foreign-Affiliated Companies in Kansai

8-3Interviews with Foreign-Affiliated Companies (Svanehøj Japan LLC)
Global manufacturer of pumps and other products for marineand offshore applications
Background of expansion into Kansai
We originally had customers in Japan and established a Japanese corporation in Kobe to further enhancesales of our products for the Japanese market. One of the reasons we chose Kobe is that shipbuilding-relatedcompanies are concentrated in western Japan, and we hoped to do business in a place close to ourcustomers. In addition, when setting up operations in a new country for the first time, it is sometimes difficult
to find an office if the company is not well known in Japan. However, when expanding to Kobe, we received
various information and support from Kobe City and JETRO Kobe for the office rent subsidy program, which
helped us to smoothly establish an office.

Attractiveness of Kansai
Kobe has a good business environment, including convenient access to a Shinkansen station and airports,
which makes it easy to travel to all parts of Japan. It is a good place to start a business. Being a compact citywhere people can live within walking distance, it is also an easy place to live.
Another attractive point is that governmental agencies are ready to provide support and incentives forcompanies expanding into the area.

KIN-IND 4.0 & Agri

Effect of expansion
Carbon neutrality is also required in marine transportation, and there is a movement to convert fuel fromheavy oil to gas. We are receiving an increasing number of inquiries due to our strength in gas-fueled vessels.
We will continue to offer products in Japan that meet the growing demand for new marine equipment, such as
CCS.*
While our manuals and instruction guides are in English, we provide after-sales service in Japanese to ourcustomers in Japan. We have created Japanese versions of product pamphlets and other materials. With abase in Japan, we are able to carefully follow up with our customers regarding our products.
* CCS: Abbreviation for Carbon Capture and Storage.
It refers to capturing and storing the generated CO2 before it is released into the atmosphere. Our
company’s pumps are used to liquefy CO2 and transport it by sea.

Outline of company
Business overview
•

•

•

•

The parent company, the Svanehøj Group, was established in Denmark in 1928,
and is a global manufacturer of pumps and other products for marine andoffshore applications.
We are a company with nearly 100 years in business and a global brand, and
90% of the LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) vessels are equipped with our
products.
In 2019, we expanded our business to Kobe, and are engaged in the sales andafter-sales service of cargo pumps and gas fuel pumps for marine and offshore
applications.
We manufacture eco-friendly, low energy-consuming electric motor-driven
pumps, which are excellent products in terms of life-cycle costs.

Energy-efficient gas fuelpumps
that can be used not only with
LNG but also with all types ofgas fuels

TechCompany
nameSvanehøj Japan LLC

Type ofpresence

Primary investment

Address

Sanko Building 2F, 5-1-24 Isogamidori, Chuo-ku, Kobe City, Hyogo

Websitehttps://www.svanehoj.com/* Pictures provided by the company

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

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9 Creation of innovation

9-1

Creation of innovation⚫

Efforts are also underway to promote open innovation between overseas startups and Japanese companies, including"Japan Innovation Bridge (J-Bridge）" and “International Innovation Conference Hack Osaka”.

⚫

Kansai is home to 1,346 companies that lead innovation (as of June 2022; “Kansai Venture Company List” by Kansai
Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry). Industry-academia-government efforts to build a startup ecosystem are alsoin progress.

Japan Innovation Bridge “J-Bridge”

Support Scheme

Focus Countries/Regions

https://www.jetro.go.jp/en/j-bridge.html
The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and JETRO launched JBridge, a matching platform to create open innovation through collaboration
between Japanese and overseas companies, in 2021.
It encourages collaboration in both the digital and green fields by providing
support for matching, such as finding business partners and arranging
interviews, and by holding events and other activities.

•
•
•
•

Southeast
Asia
India
UnitedStatesEurope••••Australia
IsraelAfrica
Japan

•
•
•

Company Introductions
Participation in events
Requests for one-on-one businessmeetings

Focus Fields
Support Programs

For Japanese Firms

Bridging
info gap

Bridging
encounter

Deepeningbusiness
process

For Overseas Firms

Digital

Relevant business information through Website/Online Seminars

•
•
•
•

•
•
•
•
•

Mobility
Health Tech
Life Sciences
Agri Tech
Retail Tech•

Renewable Energy •(offshore wind•
power, biomass,etc.)•
Energyconservation
Storage batteries

Smart Cities
FinTechRobotics
Information
security
etc.

Japanesecompanies••

HydrogenSmartinfrastructure

Overseascompanies/startups

Offering business meetings
Explaining business needs andchallenges(at pitch events andon-demand programs)

Exclusive for J-Bridge
Members

J-Bridge and Invest
Japan Programs⚫ Potential partner/Market information⚫ Potential partner/Market information⚫ Meeting Arrangement⚫ Meeting Arrangement

Startup ecosystem base city
“The Osaka, Kyoto, Hyogo–Kobe Consortium”⚫ Private consultation
by various experts⚫ Private consultation
by various experts

Kyoto-Osaka-Kobe area is one of the four locations in Japan selected by the Cabinet
Office as a global hub city, with an emphasis on healthcare, manufacturing, and theinformation and communications fields, centered on Osaka University, Kyoto University,and Kobe University, as an area for collaboration between universities, research
institutes, and companies. This area is aiming to create opportunities for startups in newtechnologies and services by building a support system that encompasses Kyoto-Osaka-

Green
•
•

Greening andenvironmental
conservation
technologies
etc.

*J-Bridge provides services mainly in Singapore, Indonesia, and Vietnam in Southeast Asia, the U.K. and Germany in Europe, and Nigeria and Kenyain Africa.

Kobe area, including the business community, for the "Osaka / Kansai Expo ."INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

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9 Creation of innovation

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Examples of support for overseas startups

Foreign investor accelerators appear.

Business matching pitch event (example)

In recent years, foreign-owned accelerators have entered the Kansai region one after
another, developing various acceleration programs from the seed and early stages to the
middle stage.

(example)■

Organizer

Plug and Play Kyoto
Under the theme of "hard tech /healthcare" based on Kyoto's strengths in
manufacturing and life science, Kyoto isdeveloping a consortium-type acceleration
program in the fields of data health, AIutilization for medical care, and medical
equipment.

■

Global Innovation Forum Osaka (GIF)

This event is to realize “Osaka, a meeting place to create business”
by matching Japanese companies with overseas startups with
cutting-edge technologies and products in fields such as carbon
neutrality, health tech, XR, and new materials.
OutlineGIF2022 features four sessions: North/Latin America, Middle
East/SW Asia, Europe, and East/SE Asia.
Three main programs (startup online exhibition, live pitch sessions,and one-on-one meetings) provide new business opportunities.

Startupbootcamp Scale Osaka
The Rainmaking group (headquarters),
headquartered in the United Kingdom,
oversees the program. Targeting after the
middle stage, they support growth bypromoting feasibility experiments andcollaboration with partner companies andput focus on business development and pilot
program execution with major Japanesecompanies.

Large companies in Kansai welcome collaboration with startups

International Innovation Conference "Hack Osaka"

Organizer

Hack Osaka Executive Committee (Osaka City, Urban Innovation
Institute, Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) Osaka, andOsaka Business Development Agency)

OutlineHack Osaka is one of the largest innovation festivals in Kansai. In
order to make Osaka a city of co-creation connected to the world,
Hack Osaka is working to provide a place and opportunities forentrepreneurs, investors, large companies, students, and various
other players to interact across organizations, regions, nationalities
and generations, through talk sessions, pitch contests, meetups withJapanese companies, and other programs. (Held once a year)

The Kansai Association of Corporate Executives is committed to promoting the ecosystem.
In cooperation with the Kyoto and Kobe Associations of Corporate Executives, it invitedcompanies and organizations that would sincerely respond to consultations from wouldbe founders and startups, without stating that they would be turned away if they did nothave a proven track record of success.
The names and contact information of companies that have endorsed the Declaration ofStartup Friendly Kansai are published on the website.

KGAP+ (Keihanna Global Acceleration Program Plus)

Organizer

International Telecommunications Research Institute Co., Ltd. (ATR)
Keihanna Research Complex Promotion Council

OutlineA three-month support program for start-up companies in Japan andoverseas.
In addition to domestic companies, participating companies selectedfrom global innovation bases that cooperate with ATR will work on
proof of products, services and concepts in collaboration with major
Japanese companies, aiming to expand into the Japanese market.

“The Declaration of Startup Friendly Kansai”
https://www.kansaidoyukai.or.jp/wpcontent/uploads/2022/10/ec2075066b1d7b2d7ed90
1e45d9c8313.pdf

The list includes 107 companies!
(As of July 12, 2022)

Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Osaka Foreign Business
Attraction Center (O-BIC)

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

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10 Support for Foreign Investment

10-1

Support Systems for Foreign Investment in Kansai⚫ The JETRO Invest Japan Business Support Center offers a variety of support services, including providing informationand individual consultations, to foreign companies planning to expand their business in Kansai.
⚫ The Council for INVEST KANSAI, made up of the Kansai Economic Federation, JETRO Osaka, the Federation of Chambersof Commerce and Industry in the Kansai Area (Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry), and Kansai Bureau of
Economy, Trade and Industry, is working in tandem to support foreign investment in Kansai.

First points of contact for Kansai

Invest Japan Business Support Center (IBSC)JETRO, an organization for attracting foreign direct investment in Japan, provides acomprehensive support service to help foreign companies to locate in Japan and expand
their business in the Japanese market by providing information on the Japanese businessenvironment, identifying companies interested in direct investment in Japan, and assistingthem in establishing a base of operations and expanding their business in Japan.

Contact points to support investment in Japan are available in eachprefecture around Kansai.

Osaka

JETRO Invest Japan Business Support Center, Osaka （JETRO IBSC Osaka） Address:
Osaka-Kokusai Bldg. 29F, 2-3-13, Azuchi-machi, Chuo-ku, Osaka, Osaka 541-0052
TEL: +81-6-4705-8660 URL： https://www.jetro.go.jp/osaka

Kobe

JETRO Invest Japan Business Support Center, Kobe（ JETRO IBSC Kobe）
Address: Kobe C.I.T. Center Bldg. 4F, 5-1-14 Hamabedori, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 6516591
TEL：+81-78-252-7505 URL： https://www.jetro.go.jp/kobe

Fukui

JETRO Fukui
Address: Fukui CCI Bldg.6F, 2-8-1, Nishikida, Fukui 918-8004
TEL：+81-776-33-1661 URL： https://www.jetro.go.jp/fukui

Shiga

JETRO Shiga
Address: Hikone CCI 1F, 3-8 Chuo-cho, Hikone, Shiga 522-0063
TEL：+81-749-21-2450 URL： https://www.jetro.go.jp/shiga

Kyoto

JETRO Kyoto
Address: Kyoto Keizai Center Bld.3F,78,Kankoboko-cho, Shijo-dori, Muromachihigashi-iru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto 600-8009
TEL：+81-75-341-1021 URL： https://www.jetro.go.jp/kyoto

Nara

JETRO Nara
Address: 2F Small and Medium Enterprises Hall of Nara Prefecture 38-1 Noboriojicho,Nara 630-8213
TEL：+81-742-23-7550 URL： https://www.jetro.go.jp/nara

Wakayama

JETRO Wakayama
Address: Wakayama Prefectural Office Higashi-Bekkan 2F, 1-1, Komatsubaradori,
Wakayama City, Wakayama 640-8269
TEL：+81-73-425-7300 URL：https://www.jetro.go.jp/wakayama

IBSC provides support for foreign/foreign-affiliated companies toenter the Japanese market and establish a base of operations after theirarrival in Japan. It also offers services to foreign-affiliated companies
that have already established a presence in Japan for business expansion,
such as increasing headcount, expanding operations to regional areas,and establishing new offices.

The Council for INVEST KANSAIThe Council for INVEST KANSAI provides support such asproviding information on investment incentives, factory
locations etc., as well as finding business partners with local
governments, regional business communities and specialists.
Foreign-affiliatedcompanies

Kansai Economic
Federation

ＩＢＳＣ
JETRO Osaka

Ｃｏｕｎｃｉｌ for INVEST KANSAI
Federation of Chambersof Commerce andIndustry in the Kansai
Area (secretariat is
Osaka Chamber ofCommerce and Industry)

METI-KANSAIThe Kansai Bureau of
Economy, Trade andIndustry (METIKANSAI)

HP“INVEST KANSAI WEB”
https://www.kansai.meti.go.jp/31toukou/invest_kansai/en/e_index.html

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

２９10 Support for Foreign Investment

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Support Programs for Foreign Investment by Local Governments
In Kansai, foreign investment support organizations belonging to local governments offer various kinds of one-stop
services.

Osaka Business and Investment
Center

https://o-bic.net/

Osaka
Prefecture

The Osaka Business and Investment Center (O-BIC) was jointly established by Osaka Prefecture, Osaka City, and the

Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry in April 2001.
We act as a one-stop service center with a meticulous support system that provides necessary information and accurate
advice to foreign companies wishing to set up operations in Osaka, foreign diplomatic missions and economic
organizations, and foreign companies in Japan wishing to set up secondary operations in Osaka.

Support content
・
・

・

・
・

Introduction to specialists for corporate registration and acquisitionof status of residence
Providing information on incorporation, accounting/taxation, and realestateReduction of initial costs for foreign companies starting business
Costs related to incorporation registration: Up to 100,000 yen
Costs related to acquisition of status of residence: Up to 50,000 yen
Providing information on incentives offered by Osaka Prefecture andOsaka City
Introduction of free temporary offices, etc.

<Main project>・Global Innovation Forum Osaka 2022
Supporting startups from overseas operating in the innovation field
to expand their business in Osaka
Content: Pitches by overseas startups,
matching with Japanese companies, online exhibition, etc.

Message from the manager in charge
The Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan will be held for six months
starting in April 2025.
Under the theme of “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” the event
will promote advanced medical care, health and wellness through theuse of artificial intelligence and robotics.
The estimated number of visitors is 28 million and the economic effectis said to be two trillion yen. O-BIC will provide all-out support for thebusiness expansion of overseas companies to Osaka, a city where
future growth is expected.

Osaka
City

Osaka Chamberof Commerce andIndustry

Examples of support for foreign-affiliated companies
Company name: CRUST JAPAN K.K.
Representative: Mr. Travinder Singh, Founder and CEO
Business description: Development and provision of upcycling
technology for food loss and waste
Website: https://www.crust-group.com/
Established: 2021
CRUST Group is a food tech company founded in Singapore in2019 to upcycle food loss and waste into higher value
products.
With a mission to reduce wasted food by 1% worldwide by2030, the company aims to increase the sustainability of thebeverage industry by developing and providing technology toconvert food loss and waste (ingredients that can be eaten
but will be discarded) into products such as beer and nonalcoholic beverages.
Company name: TST Japan Co., Ltd.
Representative: Mr. Kenzo Furuta, Representative Director
Business description: Development and sales of IoT devices
Website: https://tst-sistemas.com/en/tst/
Established: 2019Japanese corporation of TST (Technologias, Servicios,
Telematicos y Sistemas, S.A), a Spanish company with various
proven track records in IoT development in the United States andEurope.
The company designs, develops, manufactures and markets
electronic and telecommunications equipment using IoTtechnology, such as greenhouse agriculture with remotetemperature control and smart sensors for more efficient waste
collection.

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

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10 Support for Foreign Investment

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Support Programs for Foreign Investment by Local Governments
IBPC Osaka(Organization commissioned by Osaka City with business attraction andother services)

https://www.investosaka.jp/eng/

Dedicated multilingual staff provide one-stop support for domestic and foreign companies expanding into Osaka City.
For domestic and foreign companies and organizations interested in expanding or reinvesting in Osaka City and that haveconcrete business plans, we support their entry into Osaka with detailed services tailored to their needs, including introducing
business partners, providing information on investment incentives, and offering preparation offices until they establish a base ofoperations.

IBPC Osaka, as an organization commissioned by Osaka City withbusiness attraction and other services, provides multilingual support
tailored to the individual needs of companies by staff with many yearsof experience.

Introduction ofbusiness properties

Consultation on businessexpansion and referral of
specialists

Providing information
related to expansion

Assistance in securing
human resources

Interpretation service

Arranging business meetings
with Osaka-based companies

Business Support Office (BSO)
Preparation office space is provided
free of charge for up to six months
until the establishment of a base in
Osaka City.
* Corporate registration available

Example of support[Japanese market representative from Singaporean Company C]
After participating in a private acceleration program in Osaka, we
became interested in expanding into Osaka and contacted IBPC Osaka.

[IBPC Osaka]
We explained the necessary process for incorporation and businessadvancement and subsidy programs in an online interview. We also
introduced judicial scriveners, tax accountants, labor and social security
attorneys, banks, etc.
In addition, we provided a list of Kansai-based companies that would
become sales destinations and arranged business meetings with severalof them.
Even after the company’s establishment, we continue to provide PR
support by producing video interviews and introducing them on our
website and social media.

Message from the person in charge
Osaka is located in the center of the Japanese archipelago and has a 24hour international airport. The Kansai region, with its extensive
transportation infrastructure and neighboring cities such as Kyoto andKobe, is one of Japan’s largest markets, yet business costs are low whencompared to the Tokyo metropolitan area.
Osaka’s livability is also a major attraction, as it is one of the top cities in
The Economist’s “World’s Most Livable Cities” ranking every year.
If you are interested in doing business in Osaka, please feel free tocontact us!

[Inquiries] info@investosaka.jp

Find us in LinkedIn! →INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

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Support Programs for Foreign Investment by Local Governments
Kyoto Overseas Business Center(Kyo-OBC)

https://www.kyoto-obc.jp/en/

We provide total support for foreign companies setting up operations in Kyoto, including visa acquisition, subsidies foroffice and corporate registration costs, and acquisition of factory sites.

Kyoto Keizai Center・ Assistance in obtaining startup visas and business management visas
・ Providing information on incentive programs(subsidies, real estate acquisition tax reduction/exemption, etc.)
・ Subsidies for office rent and professional consultation
・ Providing a list of unique and premium spaces (Unique Venues), suchas historic buildings

Jointly organized by JETRO, local governments,
and industrial support organizations
JETRO
Kyoto
ジェトロ京都

Kyoto
京都府
Prefecture

Kyoto
京都市
City

Kyo-OBCKYOTO Industrial(公財)京都産業21
SupportOrganization 21
Kyoto Chamber ofCommerce and京都商工会議所
Industry

Advanced Science,(公財) &
Technology
Management
京都高度技術研究所
Research Institute of
KYOTO(ASTEM)(ASTEM)

Plug and Play Kyoto (U.S.)
Innovation platform for “large companies x startups”
from Silicon Valley○ Opened the second Japanese base in Kyoto in July
2019 under the theme of Hardtech/Healthcare.

[Why Kyoto?]◆ A city with the highest concentration of traditional industries in Japan andwith attractive manufacturing◆ Easy to secure high-level human resources due to the large number ofuniversities◆ Advanced governmental initiatives to support startups◆ The groundwork for talented entrepreneurs and quality startups is in place,etc.

Message from the person in charge
In addition to promoting traditional industries that utilize the skills ofcraftspeople passed down over generations, Kyoto has developed
traditional technologies into advanced technologies to create global
companies that are thriving on the world stage.
The air of culture, academia, and history in your daily life will definitely
have a positive impact on your business . We hope you will consider
starting a business in Kyoto! We will support you with our unique programs
that are ahead of the rest of the country, such as exchange of cutting-edge
technologies and support for employee recruitment.

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

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Support Programs for Foreign Investment by Local Governments
Hyogo-Kobe Investment Support
Center (HKIS)

https://www.hyogo-kobe.jp/best/en/

HKIS is an organization established by Hyogo Prefecture within the Hyogo Economic Development Center as a comprehensive
desk for providing business location information and consultation services.
As a one-stop service provider for business expansion, we help you to establish a business presence in Hyogo.

●The center’s greatest attraction
We help domestic and foreign companies expand their business with
our one-stop service!

Kobe City &Municipalities
in Hyogo

Hyogo
Prefecture

Hyogo Economic Development Center
Hyogo-Kobe Investment Support Center

One-stop service
JETRO
Kobe

Commercial
real estate

Related localorganizations

Kobe Chamberof Commerceand Industry

HYOGO

6 Bests, the pride of Hyogo
1. AccessExcellent access by land, sea and air todomestic and overseas destinations

2. Living standards

A place where about 110 thousand foreigners
live in comfort

3. Safety

Creating a disaster-resilient, safe and securecommunity

4. Incentives

Extensive support programs forforeign/foreign-affiliated companies

5. Startup services“One-stop service” to help domestic andforeign companies expanding their business6. Facilities

Diverse research institutes and facilities (e.g.,
the supercomputer “Fugaku” for shared use)

Promoting companies’ advancement in Hyogo and Kobe

Message from the person in charge

Support for domestic and foreigncompanies’ advancement in the prefectureby professional staff

In addition to industrial parks in the prefecture, we provide information on
potential factory sites, vacant land, offices for rent, etc., as well as detailed
support tailored to your needs, including administrative procedures needed
when establishing a business, employment, housing, and living arrangements.
Please feel free to contact us!

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

３３

10 Support for Foreign Investment

10-3⚫

Support Programs for Foreign Investment by the Japanese Government

Promotion of priority issues for facilitating foreign direct investment in Japan

Outline

Details and latest
information⚫

The Government of Japan has decided to organize the working group for promoting priority issues in the “Strategy for Promoting Foreign
Direct Investment in Japan” at the Council for Promotion of Foreign Direct Investment in Japan. The purpose is to discuss the items listed
in the Strategy and priority issues for facilitating foreign direct investment in Japan, and to promote them together with relevant
government ministries and agencies. Coordination with those bodies is currently underway.
<Main Policy Agenda for Promoting Foreign Direct Investment in Japan>[Pillar 1] Strengthening “investment in human capital” through inward FDI[Pillar 2] Promotion of DX, GX, and start-ups through inward FDI[Pillar 3] Improving living environment of foreign nationals to promote FDI in Japan

Cabinet Office Invest Japan Council for Promotion of Foreign Direct Investment in Japan,
http://www.invest-japan.go.jp/committee/en_index.html

Incentives for foreign/foreign-affiliated companies
Act for Promotion of Japan as an Asian Business Center (Act on Special Measures for the Promotion of Research and Development Business, etc. by Specified Multinational
Enterprises )OutlinePreferential measures, including shortened investment procedures, are available for global businesses planning to set up a company inJapan to conduct new R&D projects and business operations. <Application can be filed in English>

Assistance for fund raisingSpecific efforts

Details and latest
information
For Inquiries

Fundraising assistance offered by Small and Medium Business Investment & Consultation Co., Ltd. （Also applicable toincorporated companies with capital of 300 million yen or more） ＊Applicable only to SMEs

Acceleration of patentexaminations

Accelerating patent application screening and proceedings[3-4 months or less on average]

Shortened investment
procedures

Shortened screening period of advance notifications of direct inward investment, etc. in industries subject to regulations[30 days in ordinary cases → 2 weeks]

Acceleration of status ofresidency examinations

Accelerating screening for the Certificate of Eligibility for Status of Residence applied by foreign nationals who intend towork in Japan [Ordinarily 1 month → shortened to about 10 days]

Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry: Promotion of foreign direct investment in Japan, Act for Promotion of Japan as an Asian Business Center

https://www.meti.go.jp/english/policy/external_economy/investment/act_information.html
Investment Facilitation Division, Trade and Economic Cooperation Bureau,
Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry
TEL：03-3501-1662* For information on other incentives, etc., see JETRO’s website.
JETRO https://www.jetro.go.jp/en/invest/support_programs.html
JETRO

INVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

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10 Support for Foreign Investment

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Examples of incentives offered by local governments

Fukui

Financingprogram＊Please contact the local government for details on various support systems.
Contents

Financing to promote establishment ofcorporate sites

Low interest loan for the companies located in the prefecture and hiring citizensof the prefecture（interest rate: 1.2% or less per year）

Corporate attraction subsidy（facility maintenance subsidy）
Subsidy
programTax cuts

Period ofapplication

Name of support systems

Within 15
years

limit amount
JPY ¥500 million（JPY ¥1 billion
if specially approved）

Assistance for equipment acquisition of companies that can cooperate withprefectural projects.
（Subsidy amount: 25% investment /No employment requirements）-

JPY ¥3 billion

Subsidy for equipment acquisition related to general manufacturing industry andadvanced technology industry （subsidy amount 10 to 20% of acquisition）-

JPY ¥3 billion

Subsidy for equipment acquisition and new employment related to head office
functions （including test research） （subsidy rate 25%）-

JPY ¥600 million

Subsidy for attracting companies（subsidy for business activity costs）

Subsidy for product transportation costs for new locations in the advanced
technology industry （subsidy rate 10-50%）

3 years

JPY ¥100 million
per year

Office invitation subsidy＊Support with the municipalities thathave the system

Expenses related to office opening and operation are subsidized. （50% for landand building rent, etc., communication line fee 100%）

3 years

JPY ¥15 million

Regional Future Investment Promotion
Law

Machinery / equipment: 40% special depreciation, 4% tax reduction for building, etc. .: 20% special depreciation, 2% tax reduction
for real estate acquisition tax exemption

Message from the local government
In FY2021, we significantly upgraded the subsidy program and greatly expanded the support system for companies with an environment thatencourages young people and women to work, and for offices that accept “U/I turners.”
We will do our utmost to support companies that are considering investing or expanding into rural areas with generous incentives,
such as expanded subsidies for companies establishing bases in prefectural industrial parks, from 2022!
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office.
〈 Contact desk 〉
Fukui Prefecture Department of Business,
Industry and Labor Business Attraction Division Corporate Location
TEL 0776-20-0375 FAX 0776-20-0678
Mail k-yuchi@pref.fukui.lg.jp“Fukui Prefecture Business Location Guide”
http://www.yuchi.pref.fukui.jp/en/index.html

Fukui
Fukui mascot "Hapilyu"（center） and his brothers＊ For more details of governments’ support systems, visit the website.
Kansai Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry https://www.kansai.meti.go.jp/3-1toukou/invest_in_kansai/e_various_incentives.html
JETRO “Regional Information” https://www.jetro.go.jp/en/invest/region/

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10 Support for Foreign Investment

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Examples of incentives offered by local governments

Shiga＊Please contact the local government for details on various support systems.
Name of support systems

FinancingprogramContents

Period of application

limit amount

Loan system encouraging business launch

Low interest loan for equipment funds for factories,
research institutes, etc. （interest rate: 1.25% per year）

Within 10 years（of which the deferment
period is within 2 years）

JPY ¥200 million（land acquisition: JPY¥100million）

Business start-up subsidy

This incentive subsidizes companies' expenses for efforts
to secure human resources and improve the operating
environment due to new capital investment in theprefecture.

There are regulations foreach initiative （pleasecontact us for details）

Subsidy limit of JPY ¥5
million in a fiscal year （in thecase of a joint project bymultiple businesses: JPY¥7.5 million）

Maximum 8 years

No ruleSubsidy
program
Subsidies for Businesses Establishing New
Facilities Near Nuclear Power Plants

Assistance with electric power bills paid under thecontract for the supply of power to new and added
business facilities（Only applicable to specific areas and projects）

Real estate acquisition tax reduction andexemption

Real estate acquisition tax exemption [Regional Future Investment Promotion Law]

Business tax exemption, real estate acquisition
tax exemption / reduction

Business tax exemption for 3 years, real estate acquisition tax exemption / reduction in the target area / business[Regional base strengthening tax system]

Tax cuts

Message from the local government

Shiga Prefecture, which is located in the center of the Japanese archipelago, is a node of the three economic zones of Kansai, Chubu, andHokuriku, and has well-developed wide-area transportation infrastructure such as highways, making it an excellent prefecture in terms oftransportation convenience.
Due to these advantages, this prefecture is rated as one of the leading "manufacturing prefectures" in Japan by companies in various fields suchas chemistry, automobiles, electric appliances, electronic parts, and pharmaceuticals.
There are many development bases with active industry-academia collaboration occurring against the backdrop of the high concentration ofdiverse university faculties.
In addition, we have set up the "Shiga Prefecture Corporate Location Support Center" in the Corporate Location Promotion Office as acentralized contact point for companies located in the prefecture to quickly respond to issues in the operating environment.
Please consider investing in Shiga Prefecture.
"Shiga Prefecture Business Location Guide"
https://www.pref.shiga.lg.jp/richi/english/index.html＊ For more details of governments’ support systems, visit the website.
Kansai Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry https://www.kansai.meti.go.jp/3-1toukou/invest_in_kansai/e_various_incentives.html
JETRO “Regional Information” https://www.jetro.go.jp/en/invest/region/

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Examples of incentives offered by local governments
Kyoto City

Kyoto①＊Please contact the local government for details on various support systems.

Name of support
systems

Financingprogram

Low interest loan（for businesslocation promotion
loan for employment,
etc.）

Contents

Low interest loan （interest rate （fixed for the first 10 years）: 1.7% per year,
special interest 1.2%） for "Kyoto Industrial Location Strategy 21 Special
Measures Project Cost Subsidy" or "Kyoto Prefecture Traditional and Cultural
Manufacturing Industry Promotion Subsidy"

Period of application

limit amount[Equipment funds] Within 15 to
20 years[Working capital] Within 7 years

JPY ￥300million-￥2billion

Local
government
who carriedoutincentives

Kyoto
Prefecture[Business establishment promotion
subsidy]
JPY ¥0.25 million-￥300 million
Kyoto Industrial
Location Strategy 21
Special Measures
Project Cost Subsidy

When a manufacturing facility, natural science research institute, informationrelated entity, etc. establish a base in the prefecture in response to theinvitation of Kyoto Prefecture or municipalities, or when the existing factories
in the prefecture are expanded, the amount of capital investment and the new,regular permanent employment are subsidized.

5 years including the fiscal year ofstarting operation（* Current system must be
specified by March 31, 202７）[Subsidy to promote regular
employment within the prefecture]
JPY ¥400 million- ￥800million[Subsidy to promote of improvementof working environment]
JPY ¥3 million yen*Increase or decrease depending on the region and thenumber of permanent employees in the prefecture.

Kyoto Prefecture
Traditional andCultural
Manufacturing
Industry Promotion
Subsidy

Subsidized for the amount of capital investment and the number of new regular
employees in the prefecture for the traditional and cultural manufacturingindustry located in the prefectural industrial park "Kyoto Shinkoetsu Village" atthe invitation of Kyoto Prefecture or municipalities

5 years including the fiscal year ofstarting operation[Business establishment promotion
subsidy]
JPY ¥20 million-200 million[Subsidy to promote regular
employment within the prefecture]
JPY ￥3 million-30 million
Increase or decrease depending on
the site area, etc.

Subsidies forsupporting
businesses locatednear nuclear power
plants, etc.

Subsidies based on actual electricity charges, etc. for companies that have
expanded into new locations or facilities that generate increased employment.

Maximum 8 years

Electricity benefit + special benefit

Kyoto-type global
niche top enterprisefostering subsidy

Rank A companies certified by the Kyoto City Venture Company Connoisseur
Committee will receive subsidies equivalent to real estate tax and city planningtax as well as the cost of an excavation survey of buried cultural properties
when they establish new or additional offices.
Subsidy amount: Amount equivalent to real estate tax and city planning tax
1/2 of the amount equivalent to the cost of the excavation survey ofburied cultural properties

Tax equivalent subsidies: 2-3 years
Cost of excavation survey of buried
cultural properties:
Only once at the time of implementation（Subsidies equivalent to tax）
JPY ￥100 million（ buried cultural property excavation survey）
JPY ￥ 25 million

Subsidy
program

Kyoto
Prefecture

Kyoto CityINVEST JAPAN, INVEST KANSAI

3７

Kyoto City

Kyoto②

Subsidy
programTax cuts

Kyoto city
firm
location
promotion
institution
al subsidy＊Please contact the local government for details on various support systems.
Name of support
systems

Contents

Support programfor first-timebusiness
expansion in thecity

Subsidies will be provided to companies from outside the city setting up offices, etc.
in the city for the first time, based on the number of full-time employees living in thecity.
Subsidy amount: Number of regular employees living in the city x up to 200,000 yen

Trial location
support program

Subsidies will be provided to companies from outside the city that are considering
setting up operations in the city for the first time and are using shared offices andcoworking spaces in Kyoto on a trial basis, covering usage and transportation costs.
Subsidy amount: 1/2 of the usage and transportation costs

Support programfor establishingnew/additional
head offices andplants

Subsidies equivalent to property tax and city planning tax on newly acquired fixed
assets for new expansion of head office, factories, research institutes, development
bases, etc. in the city.
（20% increase in specific areas such as Rakunan shinto, etc.）
In addition, the cost of excavating buried cultural properties
Subsidy amount: Amount equivalent to real estate tax and city planning tax(1/2 of the tax equivalent for large companies)
1/2 of the amount equivalent to the cost of the excavation survey of buried
cultural properties
Additional subsidy is available for companies from outside the city that are setting up
operations in the city for the first time.

Real estate acquisition tax
reduction measures

Period of application

limit amountUp to 2 years

Up to JPY ￥2 million per year
2 years total: Up to JPY ￥4
millionMaximum 3 months

Usage cost: Up to JPY￥250,000
Transportation cost: Up to
JPY ￥250,000* There is an upper limit
according to the number ofdays and users.

(Subsidies equivalent totax）Middle/small sizedcompanies: for ２～３years
Large companies: １year(Subsidies equivalent to tax）
JPY ¥１00million
Large companies:
There is a limit based onincrease of regular
employees（ buried cultural property
excavation survey）
Only once at the time ofsale（ buried cultural property
excavation survey）
JPY ¥２５million

Local
government who
carried out
incentives

Kyoto City

When building new factories, etc. in the manufacturing industry agglomeration promotion area, reduced by up to half on condition of new
employment creation, etc.

Kyoto
Prefecture

Company certified by Kyoto Genki-jirushi certification for SMEs, receives subsidies
real estate acquisition tax on acquisition of land and houses （factories, research
institutes, etc.）is reduced by １／１０, when acquiring a house or land for business use
such as research and development.

Kyoto
Prefecture

when acquiring a houseor land for business use

JPY ¥２00million

Message from the local government
Kyoto, which was once the capital of Japan for more than a thousand years, has developed many global companies that are active in the world by evolving traditional
techniques into high-tech techniques in addition to traditional industries that utilize the techniques of craftsmen that have been passed down from generation to
generation.
In recent years, entrepreneurs from Japan and overseas have also opened a series of start-up companies and support organizations focusing on the characteristics of
Kyoto, including its abundant human resources as a university city, its agglomeration of cutting-edge research institutes, and innovation environment.
Kyoto is attracting attention from entrepreneurs from Japan and overseas.
In Kyoto Prefecture, we will support you with our unique support system that is ahead of the other prefectures,
including exchanges of advanced technology and support for hiring employees!
“Kyoto Prefecture Business Location / Land Information Search Site”
https://www.kyotofuyouchibank.com/＊ For more details of governments’ support systems, visit the website.
Kansai Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry https://www.kansai.meti.go.jp/3-1toukou/invest_in_kansai/e_various_incentives.html
JETRO “Regional Information” https://www.jetro.go.jp/en/invest/region/

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Examples of incentives offered by local governments

Osaka＊Please contact the local government for details on various support systems.

Name of support systems

FinancingprogramFinancing program

Contents

Period of application

Financing the funds required to locate （construct） factories, research facilities, etc. in theprefecture（handling differs depending on the financial institution）

depending on loan options

JPY ¥100 million

Subsidize the cost of renting an office to foreign-affiliated companies whose head office islocated in Osaka Prefecture （One-third of the rent, etc）

24 months

JPY ¥100 million

Subsidies for investment in new construction / extension / renovation of factories or R & D
facilities in the designated area－

JPY ¥30 million

Subsidy for corporate business tax（However, only when subsidized for the above investment）－

JPY ¥20 million

Subsidize 5% to 15% of subsidized expenses for investment for renewal of head office functions/ R & D facilities and challenge in the growing fields.
Subsidy of JPY ¥200,000 per new resident employee in the city x 3 years

Investment assistance:
Business start year
Employment assistance:
3 years

Subsidy forinvestment:
JPY ¥100 million
Subsidy for
employment:
JPY ¥50 million

Subsidies for establishing
operational offices

When a foreign-affiliated company opens a new office in urban area, 40 to 60% of the rent is
subsidized.

3 years

JPY ¥5 million

Tax Incentive System forSpecial Zone for Growing
industries

When entering a special growth zone in the prefecture, receiving approval for a business plan, and conducting business related to new energy andlife science, the maximum prefectural tax is zero （coordination with Osaka City, etc.）

Tax Incentive for Industrial
Cluster

Real estate acquisition tax on acquisition of land and houses （factories, research institutes, etc.） in the industrial agglomeration promotion area isreduced by half （up to JPY ¥200 million）

City tax incentives under the
Sakai City Innovation
Investment Promotion
Ordinance

City tax incentives under the Sakai City Innovation Investment Promotion Ordinance

Subsidy for Investment
Promotion

Local government
who carried out
incentives

limit amount－

Sakai City Corporate Growth
Promotion Subsidy

Tax cuts

Sakai City

Subsidize the cost of acquiring an office for foreign-affiliated companies that have their head
office in Osaka Prefecture.
（5% of office / equipment, etc.）

Subsidy for ForeignAffiliated Companies

Subsidy
program

Osaka City

Osaka Prefecture

Osaka Prefecture

Sakai City

Osaka Prefecture

Sakai City

Message from the local government
In Osaka Prefecture, we provide information on business sites and subsidies, such as new locations and business expansion from Japan and overseas, andsupport matching with partner companies such as business alliances and investment.
In the fields of new energy and life science, we support the new location and reinvestment by integrally utilizing the prefecture's unique Tax Incentive
System for Special Zone for Growing industries and other incentives and the national special zone system.
For more information about the attractiveness of Osaka as a business base and support measures, please see the booklet"Osaka Investment Guide”⇒ https://www.pref.osaka.lg.jp/attach/21570/00000000/r3.2_eng.pdf＊ For more details of governments’ support systems, visit the website.
Kansai Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry https://www.kansai.meti.go.jp/3-1toukou/invest_in_kansai/e_various_incentives.html
JETRO “Regional Information” https://www.jetro.go.jp/en/invest/region/

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Examples of incentives offered by local governments
Kobe City

Hyogo＊Please contact the local government for details on various support systems.
Name of support systems

Contents

Period ofapplication

limit amount

Local government
who carried out
incentives

Employment subsidy

Subsidy for new employment of full-time workers living in the prefecture (300,000
yen or 600,000 yen per person)－

JPY ￥300 million

Capital investment subsidy

Subsidy for investment related to the installation of facilities, equipment, etc. (3% or
5%)

－

－

Subsidy for market research cost, etc. (up to 1/2)－

JPY ￥1 million

Subsidy for corporate registration cost, etc. (up to 1/2)－

JPY ￥200,000

Office rent subsidy for foreign-affiliatedcompanies

Subsidy for office rent for foreign-affiliated companies:
Up to 1/2 (1/4 by the prefecture, 1/4 by Kobe City)

3 years

JPY ￥20 million
per year

Hyogo Prefecture,
Kobe City

Subsidy for transfer of headquarters fromoutside Kobe City （excluding the 23 wardsof Tokyo） to the city

Subsidy for acquiring buildings （up to 4% of the acquisition cost）, subsidy for
employment （¥300,000 per person）, etc.
＊The 23 wards of Tokyo are subject to the national preferential treatment system.

－

20% of tax amountthe relevant fiscal
year

Kobe City

Reduction of corporate enterprise tax andreal estate acquisition tax

Reduction of corporate enterprise tax by half for 5 years and reduction of real estate acquisition tax by half （maximum JPY¥200 million） for transfer of headquarters from foreign countries and 3 major metropolitan areas or for establishment ofbusiness within designated areas

Reduction of property tax, business tax, etc.

In the case of strategic industries, property tax, business tax, etc. are reduced by two-thirds for five years （10 years forlarge-scale special cases） （no upper limit） （half for non-strategic industries）

Establishment support subsidy for foreignaffiliated companies
Subsidy program

Hyogo Prefecture

Hyogo Prefecture

Tax cuts
Kobe City

Message from the local government
Hyogo Prefecture, where 8８* foreign-affiliated companies are headquartered, provides the “6 Bests" in conjunction with the relatedorganizations such as Kobe City and other municipalities in the prefecture and Hyogo-Kobe Investment Support Center, while coordinatingwith JETRO Kobe and other national agencies.
The “6 Bests” are the business environment and services that Hyogo Prefecture is proud of, namely “best access," “best living standards,"“best in safety," “best facilities," "best start-up services," and “best incentives.”
Since FY2001, approximately 20 foreign/foreign-affiliated companies have utilized these “6 Bests” to establish businesses in Hyogo annually,
and more companies are expected to do so in the future.
Hyogo Prefecture is ready to help you maximize your profit with its best services and environment.
(＊) Survey by Hyogo Prefecture International Affairs Division
Hyogo Prefecture's pamphlet for foreign-affiliated companies "Best Portal Zone“

http://web.pref.hyogo.lg.jp/sr14/documents/bestportalzoneenglish01.pdf＊ For more details of governments’ support systems, visit the website.
Kansai Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry https://www.kansai.meti.go.jp/3-1toukou/invest_in_kansai/e_various_incentives.html
JETRO “Regional Information” https://www.jetro.go.jp/en/invest/region/

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10 Support for Foreign Investment

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Examples of incentives offered by local governments

Nara

Financingprogram

Subsidy
programTax cuts＊Please contact the local government for details on various support systems.
Name of support systems

Contents

Period of application

Regional future investment promotion fund（system loan）

Based on the Regional Future Investment Promotion Law, small and medium-sizedenterprises can obtain the necessary funds for projects conducted in accordancewith the "Regional Economic Driving Business Plan" approved by the Governor.
（Guarantee fee: 0.00% （prefecture bears the full amount）, interest rate: interest
rate prescribed by financial institutions）[Equipment funds] Within 15
years（Of which, the deferment
period is within 1 year）[Working capital]
Within 7 years（Of which, the deferment
period is within 1 year）

Subsidy for corporate advancementbusiness promotion

Grant subsidies to companies that build factories, research institutes, etc. in theprefecture－[For large-scale facilities]
JPY ¥2 billion[For medium-scale locations]
JPY ¥1 billion

Local base strengthening promotion subsidy

Subsidies will be provided to companies that make investments due to therelocation of head office functions from outside the prefecture and the expansionof head office functions within the prefecture.

－

JPY ¥100 million

Information and communications-relatedcompany advancement promotion subsidy

Subsidies for capital investment, rent, etc. related to the advancement of theinformation and communications industry－

JPY ¥ 1 billion yen

Real estate acquisition tax, corporate
enterprise tax exemption measures

Real estate acquisition tax exemption, corporate enterprise tax reduction measures （three-quarters usual rate, three years）

Message from the local government

3 world Heritage Sites
As of March 2021, 23 culturaland natural heritage sites inJapan have been registered as
UNESCO World Heritage Sites: 3of them are in Nara Prefecture.

What is Nara?
A town surrounded
By history and culture

limit amountMaximum JPY ¥280 million（Secured JPY ¥200 million,
unsecured JPY ¥80 million）* Separate from ordinary
guarantee“INVEST IN NARA”
http://www.pref.nara.jp/59034.htm“Nara Prefecture Business Location Guide”
http://www.pref.nara.jp/53543.htm

Rich nature
Many natural forests are left in the
Nara Basin and the surrounding
mountains, and the Kasugayama
Primeval Forest, which forms part of
the World Heritage Site "Historic
Monuments of Ancient Nara," isclose to the city area. It is a
precious primeval forest.

In ancient times, Fujiwarakyo and Heijo-kyo prospered
as the capital of Japan. Even
now, there are manyarchaeological sites in theprefecture that remind us of
the past.

＊ For more details of governments’ support systems, visit the website.
Kansai Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry https://www.kansai.meti.go.jp/3-1toukou/invest_in_kansai/e_various_incentives.html
JETRO “Regional Information” https://www.jetro.go.jp/en/invest/region/

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Examples of incentives offered by local governments

Wakayama＊Please contact the local government for details on various support systems.
Name of support systems

Financingprogram

Wakayama Prefecture Corporate Advancement
Promotion Fund Loan System

Incentive system （employment incentive）

Subsidy
program

Incentive system （advancement incentive）

Accommodation facility opening promotion incentive
systemTax cuts

Business tax, real estate acquisition tax, property tax,etc.

Period ofapplication

Contents

limit amountLow interest loan to companies advancing in the prefecture and employing
citizens of the prefecture （interest rate: long-term prime rate x 3/4%）

Within 10 years

JPY ¥200 million

Granted to companies that build the designated facilities in the prefectureand employ citizens of the prefecture

3 years

Up to JPY ¥1 billion for 100 or more
employees

Granted up to 10% of the amount of fixed assets invested to designatedcompanies that employ citizens of the prefecture

1 yearUp to JPY ¥9 billion for 1,000 or more
employees

When a luxury accommodation facility that meets certain requirements is
opened in the prefecture, a subsidy will be given to related companies.

1 year

JPY ¥300 million

Reduction of business tax, real estate acquisition tax, property tax, etc. for up to 3 years in the designated area

Message from the local government

With the motto "Take care of the company“
Wakayama Prefecture is now fully supporting the advancement of companies. The citizens of the prefecture who want to revitalize Wakayama areunited in welcoming companies.
The first thing we think that we should provide to companies is an environment where it is easy to do business. Therefore, in this prefecture, we havestaff in charge of corporate contact points who are responsible for handling the requests from companies. If you call us at any time, we will work
togetherwith you to solve a problem as quickly as possible. All employees will do
Wakayama Prefecture
their utmost to "Take care of the company", so we promise that you will be
Corporate Advancement Portal Siteable to develop your business with confidence.

https://ritti.pref.wakayama.jp/＊ For more details of governments’ support systems, visit the website.
Kansai Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry https://www.kansai.meti.go.jp/3-1toukou/invest_in_kansai/e_various_incentives.html
JETRO “Regional Information” https://www.jetro.go.jp/en/invest/region/

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One-window support for investment in Kansai

INVEST KANSAI WEB

Contact information about this brochureInternational Investment Promotion Division,
Kansai Bureau of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry
Address: 1-5-44 Otemae, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 540-8535
TEL： 06-6966-6033
E-mail： invest-japan-kansai@meti.go.jp
URL： https://www.kansai.meti.go.jp/3-1toukou/invest_in_kansai/e_invest_kansai_english.html
You may quote freely from this brochure by indicating the source.
However, you may not reproduce or copy pictures used in this brochure.
Please contact us for more information.

(Printed in November 202２）