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Invitation to Join Fisheries Processing Collaboration Support Program

The Japanese Fisheries Agency is now inviting participation from private enterprises for its Fisheries Processing Collaboration Support Program (FY2028). This initiative aims to tackle critical issues such as the shortage of raw materials, labor, and transport capacity in the fisheries processing industry. By bringing stakeholders across the supply chain—covering production, processing, distribution, and sales—together, the program intends to provide comprehensive support for enhanced collaboration.

Background to the Program

As we navigate through significant changes in our marine environment, the need for this support program has become increasingly essential. With challenges including raw material shortages and improved management capabilities, the Fisheries Agency is focused on fostering solid partnerships among various players in the sector. The call for applications is now open until June 26, 2028, at 5 PM.

Interested enterprises are encouraged to review the detailed application procedures and additional information available on the website of the National Fisheries Distribution Promotion Center.

Program Details

1. Who Can Apply?

The Fisheries Processing Collaboration Support Program is designed for stakeholders, such as fishermen, aquaculture operators, distributors, processors, and their associations. Applicants must form a collaborative council with at least two members, including other processing industry players, financial institutions, local governments, research institutions, and private enterprises. Supported activities under this initiative include:

• - Efforts to address raw material shortages caused by rapid environmental changes; for instance, transitioning to more sustainable fish species.
• - Initiatives employing advanced technologies such as ICT and digital transformation, aiming to enhance productivity and the quality of goods.
• - Strategies for streamlining the distribution process, integrating freshness-preservation technologies, and automating tasks to combat labor shortages and create sustainable supply systems.
• - Other efforts that contribute to achieving sustainability in the fisheries processing and distribution sectors.

2. Eligible Expenses

i. Council Operational Expenses

Assistance will cover expenses related to establishing a collaborative framework within the council. This includes the costs for assessing and researching business plans and obtaining high-level consulting services for management guidance (with an upper limit of 4 million yen).

ii. Startup and Collaboration Plan Expenses

These funds will cover necessary costs for executing the collaborative plans initiated by the councils. Eligible expenditures include:

• - Market research and business meeting costs
• - Creation of promotional materials
• - Expenses for acquiring knowledge and skills via training
• - Storage costs, warehouse handling fees, and product development expenses
• - Purchasing costs for equipment and materials crucial for the processing and sale of seafood products
• - Logistic improvements within supply structures, etc.

Supported expenses will not exceed 50% of the total project cost.

3. How to Apply

Applications must follow the guidelines provided on the aforementioned website. Interested parties should fill out the required forms accurately for submission.

4. Deadline for Submission

The deadline for submitting applications is set for June 26, 2028, at 5 PM.

5. Submission Address and Inquiries

For direct inquiries (excluding weekends and holidays), contact:
National Fisheries Distribution Promotion Center Members
Public Interest Incorporated Foundation for Sustainable Supply of Sea Products
Mukai and Hashimoto
6th Floor, Yoshimoto Building, 28-5 Kanda Higashimatsushita-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0042
Phone: 03-3254-7044
Email: m-project★fishfund.or.jp (replace ★ with @)

Take the opportunity to contribute to a sustainable future for Japan’s fisheries industry through collaboration and innovation!