Support Measures for Disaster-Affected Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises and Small Businesses Following Heavy Rainfall from Low Pressure and Frontal Systems
Tokyo, Japan – August 7, 2025 – The Small and Medium Enterprise Agency (SME Agency) announced today, August 7, 2025, the implementation of comprehensive support measures for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and small businesses affected by the heavy rainfall caused by low pressure and frontal systems that commenced on August 6, 2025. The agency is committed to providing prompt and effective assistance to help these businesses recover and rebuild in the wake of the recent natural disaster.
The severe weather has caused widespread damage across various regions, impacting the operational continuity and livelihoods of numerous SMEs and small businesses. Recognizing the critical role these entities play in the Japanese economy and local communities, the SME Agency has mobilized a range of support initiatives designed to address the immediate and ongoing challenges faced by those affected.
Key support measures outlined by the SME Agency include:
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Financial Assistance and Funding:
- Disaster Relief Loans: Interest-free loans will be made available through financial institutions to assist businesses in covering immediate repair costs, inventory replenishment, and operational expenses. These loans aim to alleviate the financial burden and facilitate a swift return to normal business activities.
- Subsidies for Recovery and Reconstruction: Grants and subsidies will be provided to support the cost of repairing damaged facilities, purchasing new equipment, and implementing measures to enhance disaster resilience. This financial support is intended to help businesses rebuild their infrastructure and operations.
- Special Credit Guarantee: Credit guarantee corporations will offer enhanced guarantee services, making it easier for affected businesses to secure loans from private financial institutions for their recovery efforts.
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Consultation and Advisory Services:
- Disaster Response Support Desks: Local SME support centers and chambers of commerce will establish dedicated desks to offer comprehensive consultations on disaster response, including information on available support programs, application procedures, and recovery strategies.
- Expert Advice: Experienced advisors and specialists will be available to provide expert guidance on business continuity planning, financial management, and legal matters related to the disaster.
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Information Dissemination and Coordination:
- Information Hubs: The SME Agency will serve as a central hub for disseminating up-to-date information on disaster impacts, available support, and best practices for recovery. This will include sharing information through official websites, press releases, and local government channels.
- Inter-Agency Collaboration: The agency will work closely with relevant government ministries, local authorities, and private sector organizations to ensure a coordinated and efficient delivery of support services.
The SME Agency expresses its deepest sympathy to all individuals and businesses impacted by this devastating event. The agency is dedicated to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure that affected SMEs and small businesses receive the necessary support to overcome this challenging period and resume their vital contributions to society.
Further details regarding the specific eligibility criteria and application procedures for these support measures will be announced shortly through the SME Agency’s official channels and affiliated organizations. Businesses experiencing damages are encouraged to contact their local SME support centers for immediate assistance and information.
令和7年8月6日からの低気圧と前線による大雨に伴う災害に関する被災中小企業・小規模事業者対策について
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中小企業基盤整備機構 published ‘令和7年8月6日からの低気圧と前線による大雨に伴う災害に関する被災中小企業・小規模事業者対策について’ at 2025-08-07 15:00. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.