Tosa Shimizu City and Agent Begin Collaborative Local DX Initiative

Introduction

On May 19, 2025, Tosa Shimizu City, led by Mayor Tadayoshi Haraoka, signed a comprehensive collaboration agreement with Agent Co., Ltd., headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo. This agreement marked the beginning of a collaborative effort aimed at addressing local challenges and promoting digital transformation. Agent’s mission revolves around solving societal issues, aiming for a community where everyone can smile, aptly named “All-Smile.”

Agreement Signing Ceremony

Partnership Overview

The collaboration signifies a strategic alliance between governmental bodies and the private sector, intending to develop a “community-based DX model.” This initiative targets various complex local challenges such as population decline, an aging population, and workforce shortages in local industries. By combining technological advancements with human resources, the partnerships seek to create effective solutions for these pressing issues.

Ceremony Highlights

The ceremony took place at Tosa Shimizu City Hall, attended by key figures including Mayor Tadayoshi Haraoka, the Deputy Mayor, and other city officials along with Agent's CEO, Koji Shimiya, and the head of their Digital Shift Division. After the signing of the agreement, both parties shared their aspirations for future collaboration, emphasizing the importance of their partnership.

Ceremony Participants

Comments from Leaders

Mayor Tadayoshi Haraoka:
The “comprehensive collaboration agreement for promoting local DX” with Agent will significantly support our city’s digital transformation endeavors. As Japan faces challenges from population decline and an increasing elderly demographic, many seniors lack smartphones. With the discontinuation of FOMA services in March 2026, it’s crucial that we provide inclusive support to ensure that no one is left behind. We have previously initiated community currency programs and implemented tablet usage in city council meetings. Now, we aim to advance smartphone support and digital empowerment tailored to our community with the assistance of Agent.

Koji Shimiya, CEO of Agent:
We are honored to sign this comprehensive collaboration agreement with Tosa Shimizu City. Our company aims to address societal issues like the digital divide, workforce shortages, and educational disparities by partnering with local governments nationwide. We strive to support Tosa Shimizu City in promoting a “DX for all” approach, alleviating concerns and complications surrounding smartphone usage before and after purchase.

Future Initiatives

The agreement outlines a phased approach to enhance the lives of local residents through DX, which includes:

1. Establishment of a Consultation Counter at City Hall:
A welcoming venue within the city hall for residents to seek help regarding smartphone operations and digital administrative services. Neutral guidance will be provided to assist residents.

2. Visiting Smartphone Classes and Digital Consultation Sessions:
Regularly scheduled smartphone classes and consultation meetings in various local areas aimed at beginners and seniors. Our goal is to offer supportive services that address residents' uncertainties.

3. Optimization of Smartphone Charges via ‘Pita-Suma’:
Using Agent's online consultation service ‘Pita-Suma,’ we will provide tailored suggestions for the best mobile plans based on users' needs. This initiative not only aims to reduce communication expenses through plan transitions but also addresses concerns about excessive usage. Confused users will receive clear, unbiased support from our experts to help them make informed choices.

Note: Online consultations are completely free and accessible to anyone via smartphone or PC.

Conclusion

Tosa Shimizu City and Agent’s partnership marks a progressive step towards addressing local issues through innovative digital transformations. As they embark on this journey, the cities and companies involved hope that their efforts will foster a spirit of collaboration and success, ensuring that all residents thrive in an increasingly digital world.