Okinawa Prefecture is implementing a project to support local construction companies which hope to expand their business abroad. Advises of experts as well as subsidies for administrative expenses are offered to selected private sectors. This is one of the first approaches by local municipalities to give assistance in overseas construction business. Seven companies appointed in fiscal 2013 have conducted research abroad with the prefecture’s assistance. Okinawa expects the project to be a foothold for local builders to gain shares in foreign markets.

The approach is a part of the administration’s long term plan for future construction industry. On the assumption that domestic construction economy is on the down trend, the industry is eying on increasing demand in foreign markets. Enhancement of the industry’s durable strength is aimed through the project.

The first seven groups of recipients, all of which are based in Okinawa, were selected in October 2013 based on submitted proposals. After given advises and supervisions by the expert committee, the groups practiced research and on site fact findings such as local unit price of materials and labor cost. Their further activities are to be continued in 2014. The final targeted year is fiscal 2016, when the recipient companies will prepare final reports and possibly share the outcomes with public.

Since Okinawa is located in the southernmost part of Japan and shares the tropic climate with Southeast Asian countries, the companies aim to introduce their technologies suitable for tropic climate in those countries. Some examples of the advantages are housing design and construction for hot and humid regions; anti-storm infrastructure. (2014/03/26)