Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI)
Cool Japan initiative: Stimulation of industries related to attracting visitors and promoting cultural exchange in local areas
This program contributes to building globally-competitive industries to welcome visitors and promote cultural exchange in disaster-affected areas. It will be carried out by encouraging cooperation from personnel in various areas of expertise; promoting comprehensive efforts that bridge various areas and industries; generating new, value-added visitor and cultural exchange services; and developing the infrastructure for the new market for the services.
Period
From the day of issue to March 31 2012
note:Can be continued in FY2012 by applying for an extension.
Support the expansion of the Cool Japan initiative overseas by utilizing traditional crafts, etc. from the disaster-affected areas
Following the Great East Japan Earthquake, there have been concerns over a worsening image of Tohoku and a decline in its capacity to transmit information to the global community. However, it has many special regional characteristics, including cultural ones such as traditional crafts and a unique food culture, that combine regional food with local tableware from disaster-affected areas. These special characteristics and food culture have received remarkable attention from consumers overseas.
With this program, METI supports the development of a new market for traditional crafts from disaster-affected areas through test marketing and business matching. The program will prevent damaging rumors from spreading, lead to the development of new markets abroad, result in sustained recovery and reconstruction, and stimulate the local economy.
Period
From the day of issue to March 31 2012 .
note:Can be continued in FY2012 by applying for an extension.
Support the recovery of traditional crafts industries
To support the efforts of Japanese brands in restoring their images by preventing harmful rumors stemming from the nuclear power plant accident. At the same time, to establish and strengthen an appropriate production environment for each brand, especially in disaster-affected areas, through the reconstruction of production facilities, secured procurement of materials, and assistance of prototype production. This project also supports demand stimulation for traditional crafts by organizing trade shows, etc. and through new product development.
Period
From the day of issue to March 31 2013