#Japan #Tokyo #Water Infrastructure #JPI Seminar #Water PPP

Transforming Water Infrastructure Management

On November 11, 2025, the Japan Planning Institute (JPI) will host a seminar titled "From Expansion to Sustainability: The Latest Trends in Water PPP Projects". Featuring Kenichiro Fukuda, Associate Partner at EY Strategy and Consulting's Infrastructure Advisory division, this seminar will delve into the foundational and contemporary advancements in public-private partnerships (PPPs) concerning water infrastructure management.

Current Status and Challenges

Japan's water and sewerage systems are crucial for the functioning of municipal operations and the well-being of citizens. The industry is witnessing a significant transition from an era of expansion to one focused on sustainability and maintenance. However, various challenges such as staff shortages, aging assets, and declining revenue present significant hurdles.

To navigate these challenges, trends toward regional consolidation and collaboration are emerging. Many local governments are engaging in initiatives aimed at cooperation and joint operations to enhance efficiency.

Evolving Public-Private Partnerships

In recent developments, six concession agreements centered around sewerage operations have been implemented in cities such as Hamamatsu and Miyagi Prefecture. In June of the previous year, the nation introduced the concept of “Water PPP” as a novel approach, aiming for 200 initiatives in water and sewage management over the next decade. This marks a groundbreaking shift in how water services are managed in Japan.

Additionally, various innovative models, including design-build systems and comprehensive outsourcing, are gaining traction across the country. Notably, Akita Prefecture is moving towards a model where a publicly-private funded company will take on significant project responsibilities, demonstrating a new paradigm in water service delivery.

Seminar Overview

During the seminar, participants will gain insights into various critical topics:
1. Current Landscape of Water and Sewerage Services
- An overview of the existing legal framework governing these services.
- Analysis of the operational conditions facing these essential services, including financial forecasts related to water tariffs.

2. Movement Towards Business Transformation and Regional Consolidation
- Insight into ongoing efforts towards business mergers and the establishment of regional support organizations.

3. Understanding PPPs, PFIs, and Concessions
- Key issues surrounding PPPs and concessions will be thoroughly discussed, supplemented by examples from both domestic and international contexts.

4. Introduction of Water PPPs
- Exploration of the critical aspects of the Water PPP framework, with case studies highlighting similar initiatives in Gunma Prefecture and Arao City.
- Current strategies for promoting Water PPP initiatives, including budget considerations.

5. Future Trends in Regionalization and PPP Development
- Predictions and expectations for how these partnerships will evolve in the water sector over the coming years.

6. Q&A session
- An interactive segment where participants can engage directly with the expert lecture.

7. Networking and Exchange
- The seminar will facilitate relationship-building opportunities among attendees and the speaker, fostering connections that can support business growth.

Participation Methods

Participants can choose to attend in person, join the live streaming, or access the recorded sessions for two weeks post-event, allowing flexibility in how they engage with the seminar content.

Registration Fees

• - Individual: ¥37,750 (tax included)
• - For groups (two or more) from the same organization: ¥32,750 per person.
• - Special rate for local government employees: up to 2 individuals for ¥11,000 (tax included) for in-person or live streaming only; both must choose the same participation format.

For further details and to register, please visit the JPI seminar webpage: JPI Seminar Registration.

This seminar not only aims to provide essential insights but also to facilitate an enriching networking environment for participants, with opportunities to ask questions and engage with peers post-event.

Contact Information

Japan Planning Institute Co., Ltd.
106-0047 Tokyo, Minato-ku, Minamiazabu 5-2-32, Kowa Hiroo Building
Phone: 03-5793-9761
Fax: 03-5793-9767
URL: https://www.jpi.co.jp

About JPI
For half a century, JPI has been a bridge between government, academia, and the private sector, fostering the development of national policy and projects. We continue to provide valuable information to leaders and senior executives through focused seminars tailored for participants' needs.