New Initiative Aims to Establish Sustainable Local Communities Through Advisory Support in Ibaraki Prefecture

Establishing Sustainable Communities in Ibaraki Prefecture

In an innovative move towards fostering sustainable community development, the National Regional Business Association and BIPROGY Inc. have announced the launch of the "Local Public Corporation Advisory Support" in May 2025. This initiative aims to provide systematic strategies based on the successful experiences of Sakai Town in Ibaraki Prefecture, where local public corporations are thriving.

Sakai Town has successfully utilized its hometown tax system to create a financial foundation that promotes the production and management of local products, becoming a notable case study for other municipalities across Japan. With this advisory support, the aim is to replicate this success in regions nationwide, bolstering the local economy through sustainable practices.

Background

Numerous municipalities face significant challenges due to population decline and aging demographics, leading to economic contraction. In contrast, Sakai Town has engaged various stakeholders both within and outside the region to construct a sustainable business model addressing local issues. The initiatives by the Sakai Town Development Public Corporation, which operates production bases for local specialty products funded by hometown tax revenues, have garnered attention as a successful