
Miyazaki Prefecture’s Miyakonojo Metropolitan Area Embraces Global Markets with Inaugural Export Seminar
Miyakonojo, Japan – The Miyakonojo Metropolitan Area Council for the Promotion of Regional Self-Reliance and Permanent Settlement (Miyakonojo Kōiki Teijū Jiritsu Ken Kōsō Kyōgikai) recently hosted its first-ever export seminar, marking a significant step towards expanding the region’s economic reach. This initiative, announced by the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) on August 21, 2025, aims to leverage the recently opened Miyakonojo-Shibushi Road to maximize the utilization of Shibushi Port and foster greater international trade opportunities for local businesses.
The seminar, held on August 20, 2025, brought together a diverse group of local enterprises, including manufacturers and agricultural producers, who are keen to explore overseas markets. The primary objective of the event was to equip these businesses with the knowledge and resources necessary to navigate the complexities of international trade, from market research and product adaptation to export procedures and logistics.
A key catalyst for this proactive approach is the official opening of the Miyakonojo-Shibushi Road. This vital infrastructure project significantly enhances connectivity between the inland Miyakonojo region and the strategically important Shibushi Port in Kagoshima Prefecture. The improved transportation network is expected to streamline the movement of goods, reduce logistical costs, and ultimately make exports more competitive.
Shibushi Port, with its modern facilities and advantageous location, offers a gateway to various international markets, particularly in Asia. The seminar emphasized the port’s potential as a crucial hub for the region’s export activities. Participants received insights into the port’s services, shipping routes, and opportunities for collaboration with international logistics providers.
During the seminar, representatives from JETRO provided valuable guidance on global market trends, identifying potential export destinations for products originating from the Miyakonojo area. They also shared practical advice on product labeling, packaging, and compliance with international standards and regulations. Furthermore, the session highlighted the various support systems and programs available to exporters, both from JETRO and other relevant government agencies, to assist businesses in their internationalization efforts.
The Miyakonojo Metropolitan Area Council expressed its strong commitment to supporting local businesses in their pursuit of global growth. By fostering an environment that encourages international trade, the council aims to create new economic opportunities, stimulate regional development, and enhance the competitiveness of the local economy on the world stage.
This inaugural export seminar represents a forward-thinking strategy by the Miyakonojo Metropolitan Area. By capitalizing on the enhanced infrastructure and leveraging the expertise of organizations like JETRO, the region is poised to unlock its full export potential, bringing greater prosperity to its businesses and communities. The council anticipates further initiatives to follow, building upon the momentum generated by this successful event.
都城広域定住自立圏構想協議会が初の輸出セミナー開催、都城―志布志道路の開通契機に志布志港の活用拡大へ
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