Key Facts
• Maniwa City, Okayama, plans to establish an agricultural support corporation by spring 2026.
• The city aims to promote ‘profitable agriculture’ through corporate collaboration.
• A preparation office has been set up in the city’s Agricultural Promotion Division.
• 70% of local farms operate on less than 1 hectare; 60% earn under ¥500,000 annually.
• 80% of the 2,700 farming households are aged 60 or older, highlighting aging challenges.
• The corporation will handle tasks like farmwork matching, subsidy applications, and new farmer outreach.
• Initial capital is estimated at ¥400–500 million, with the city contributing over 50%.
• Six companies, including Pasona Group and Toppan Edge, are key collaborators.
• The initiative uses Japan’s regional revitalization entrepreneur system to attract more partners.
• Mayor Noboru Ota emphasized the potential of agriculture and aims to increase farming income.
Summary
Maniwa City in Okayama Prefecture is advancing plans to establish an agricultural support corporation by spring 2026. The initiative, focused on ‘profitable agriculture,’ seeks to address challenges like aging farmers and small-scale operations. With 70% of farms under 1 hectare and 60% earning less than ¥500,000 annually, the city aims to provide comprehensive support, including farmwork matching, subsidy applications, and new farmer promotion. The corporation’s initial capital is projected at ¥400–500 million, with the city contributing the majority. Six companies, including Pasona Group and Toppan Edge, are collaborating, offering expertise in management, PR, and agricultural services. Mayor Noboru Ota expressed optimism about agriculture’s potential and aims to boost farming income. The project also leverages Japan’s regional revitalization entrepreneur system to attract additional partners.
