Fitech and Kazakhstan's National Center Join Forces Against Forest Fires
Fitech Inc., a company based in Okazaki, Aichi, has made headlines by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Kazakhstan's National Center for Scientific Research, Training, and Education in the Field of Civil Protection (NCCP). This agreement was part of the Central Asia + Japan Dialogue (CA+JAD) Business Forum held on December 19-20, 2025. The MoU aims to tackle the increasing risks of forest fires caused by climate change through international collaboration.
(Left) Fitech CEO Tomonori Hayashi, (Right) NCCP President Adil Muratovich Katubaev
The world has witnessed a drastic increase in forest fire incidents due to abnormal weather patterns, particularly in regions like Central Asia, where extensive forests and grasslands exist. These fires not only disrupt local ecosystems but also contribute significantly to global greenhouse gas emissions. The MoU establishes a foundational framework for practical and long-term collaboration between Fitech and NCCP, focusing on research, technology exchange, and demonstration activities to mitigate forest fire risks.
The Essence of the MoU
This agreement marks a significant step in advancing the international cooperation aligned with Japan's governmental agenda to enhance infrastructure overseas and foster collaboration with countries in the Global South. Fitech and NCCP have expressed their commitment to maintaining ongoing discussions and mutual visits, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of fire prevention and forest fire management issues. Together, they aim to create a sustainable partnership that extends beyond mere collaboration.
The MoU outlines several key areas for cooperation:
- - Research Collaboration: Joint efforts in studying fire prevention and management strategies.
- - Technical Information Sharing: Exchange of knowledge related to fire suppression technologies and agents.
- - Demonstration Activities: Conducting practical demonstrations of fire-fighting technologies.
- - Expert Exchange and Training: Engaging in educational initiatives to enhance skills in fire management.
- - Pilot Project Development: Exploring Japan's technology applications for effective fire suppression solutions.
Through these efforts, the partnership aspires to reduce the devastation caused by forest fires while simultaneously promoting environmental preservation and safeguarding human lives.
JICA's Role in the Collaboration
Fitech's collaboration can be seen as an extension of its participation in a JICA initiative focused on addressing wildfires in Kazakhstan. Under JICA’s 2024 survey, Fitech gathered information on local needs and challenges related to fire suppression, allowing them to establish a more tailored approach for solutions. Following this groundwork, the MoU was established, laying the foundation for a cooperative framework aimed at commercializing effective fire suppression measures in Kazakhstan.
Moreover, this partnership is anticipated to serve as a model for international cooperation that transcends borders in addressing disaster risks associated with climate change. By leveraging both Japanese technological advancements and local knowledge, the collaboration strives to create a sustainable operation that effectively combats forest fires.
Advanced Fire Suppression Technologies
Fitech has developed an innovative fire suppressor named
FOREST DEFENDER, specifically designed for wildfires. This next-generation agent offers a powerful extinguishing capability, confirmed to be highly effective when diluted with minimal amounts of water. Additionally, it excels in forming firebreaks, which are crucial for quickly containing wildfires. Remarkably,
FOREST DEFENDER is environmentally friendly, composed of ingredients close to fertilizers, ensuring minimal adverse effects on vegetation and soil environments.
Fitech’s firefighting capabilities are further enhanced by their helicopter fire suppression injection system known as
FEI (Fitech Easy Injection). This system allows precise and rapid injection of fire suppressants during aerial operations, effectively covering vast areas in a short period. It's designed to be compatible with various helicopter models and has been successfully adopted by Japan's Self-Defense Forces.
Looking Ahead
As Fitech moves forward, the company is dedicated to further enhancing fire prevention and suppression methods while collaborating closely with Kazakhstan. They remain steadfast in their mission to mitigate environmental damage caused by forest fires and greenhouse gas emissions, reflecting a global commitment to addressing climate change.
Fitech believes that their effective technology-driven solutions can play a vital role in realizing a sustainable society. By integrating international cooperation and local needs, Fitech aims to make a significant contribution to the global fight against climate change and its associated challenges.
In conclusion, as environmental issues continue to rise globally, partnerships like the one between Fitech and NCCP will be crucial in creating innovative, sustainable, and effective strategies to address the pressing challenges of forest fires and climate resilience.