The Kyushu Economic Federation has issued its first-ever policy aimed at revitalizing Kyushu’s fading fisheries industry. Kyushu is rich in marine resources, accounting for 30% of Japan’s fisheries production by value and more than 40% of its aquaculture by value. The new policy calls for the establishment of new export-only fish farms, with the aim of turning Kyushu into an export hub for marine goods, but this will require some regulations to be loosened. Taking a page from Norway’s national strategy, the policy proposes the establishment of a national body to promote exports and overseas marketing. It also suggests designating Fukuoka’s fish markets as a Special Zone and opening them to tourists and the general public. Another idea is to work with local fisheries associations to set up a Kyushu-wide federation to ensure that the catches of mackerel, amberjack, bluefin tuna and other marine products landed in Kyushu can be sold to major retailers more strategically. Source: Nishinippon Shimbun 3/25
