Economic Policy for Post Covid-19 Japanese Regional Economies

The impact of the spread of the novel coronavirus infection has highlighted the challenges facing the local economy. First, the global movement to improve corporate productivity and solve social issues through so-called digital transformation, which transforms business models and governments using IT technology, has been slow in Japan, especially in rural areas. Second, the overconcentration of population in Tokyo made it difficult to control the spread of infection. Thirdly, the capacity to create cutting-edge start-up companies is weak in rural areas. Fourth, inbound tourism has increased the number of tourists in rural areas, but this has not formed a significant boon to local incomes. This research will analyze the current situation and conduct policy research on digitization, demographic distribution changes following the expansion of telework, formation of a startup ecosystem, and higher value-added in the tourism industry.

January 4, 2021 - June 30, 2023

(During the research project period, the research activity period is set from January 4, 2021 to December 31, 2022, and the data usage reporting period is set from January 1, 2023 to June 30, 2023.)