Japan’s shipbuilding and maritime sectors remain critical to the country’s economic security, employment, and trade, according to Keita Arakaki, director-general of the Maritime Bureau at the transport ministry. He notes that shipbuilding is deeply tied to regional economies, particularly around the Seto Inland Sea, where local manufacturers, financial institutions, and service providers form a tightly connected maritime ecosystem.
As an island nation, Japan relies heavily on shipping, which accounts for nearly all of its trade by weight. Beyond commercial transport, shipbuilding also supports national security by supplying vessels for the Self-Defense Forces, the Coast Guard, and other public agencies.
The industry faces mounting challenges, including disaster resilience and rising costs. Arakaki highlighted the need for rapid coordination when ports are disrupted by natural disasters and stressed the importance of maintaining stable supply chains even during emergencies, drawing lessons from past crises.
Despite these pressures, Japan retains strong competitive advantages. Its shipbuilders are recognized not only for craftsmanship and precision but also for leadership in advanced technologies such as autonomous navigation, remote monitoring systems, satellite-based route planning, and low- and zero-emission vessels powered by fuels like ammonia and hydrogen.
Looking ahead, the biggest hurdle is securing skilled workers. Developing next-generation, green-fueled and autonomous ships requires expertise spanning engineering, software, fuel safety, and operations. Addressing labor shortages while advancing multiple new technologies at once will be key to ensuring the long-term sustainability of Japan’s maritime industry.