A new Japanese statute has officially come into force, enabling the government to designate secondary capital cities to ensure administrative continuity during major disasters. This legislative move aims to decentralize economic activity and reduce reliance on Tokyo. Prefectures seeking this status must meet specific criteria, including contributing at least 2.1% to the national GDP and hosting a city with a population representing 1.2% of the country's total. Regions such as Hokkaido, Aichi, Osaka, and Fukuoka are anticipated to submit applications. The government plans to release a formal framework and timeline for these designations in November. Successful applicants will receive tax incentives to encourage regional investment. The law permits the designation of multiple backup capitals, reflecting a strategic effort to enhance national resilience and distribute economic power more broadly across the country.
Source : Anadolu Agency
