Could you share your vision for Hokkaido and the city of Sapporo as a global financial hub?
The Japanese government is projecting over 150 trillion yen in public and private Green Transformation (GX) investments over the next decade. To attract a portion of that investment to Hokkaido, we are working to strengthen the concentration of financial functions in the region. By leveraging Sapporo’s excellent business environment to the fullest, we are advancing regulatory reforms through the framework of the Special Zones for Financial and Asset Management Businesses in coordination with local initiatives. This approach aims to enhance the investment climate and attract financial institutions and capital from around the world to Hokkaido and Sapporo. Ultimately, by linking these efforts to the development of GX-related industries across the entire region, we aspire to position Hokkaido as Japan’s hub for renewable energy supply and utilization and to establish Sapporo as a global financial center where capital, talent, and information related to GX converge from across Asia and the world.
What are the main advantages or unique characteristics of your Special Zone that contribute to its appeal?
Hokkaido is a region of exceptional appeal, renowned for its vast natural landscapes, diverse outdoor activities, and rich culinary offerings born from its pristine environment. These qualities attract approximately 50 million visitors from Japan and abroad each year and form part of a "Hokkaido Brand" that represents the region.
Sapporo is a major city with a population of around two million and offers a rare blend of beautiful seasonal scenery and highly convenient urban functions. With well-developed public transportation and key facilities concentrated in the city center, it stands out globally as a uniquely attractive city. Sapporo is also actively promoting a wide range of industries, making it a dynamic and forward-looking urban center.
Could you describe any notable traits or trends among the businesses currently operating in your Special Zone?
In Hokkaido, we are seeing steady progress in the development of GX-related industries that leverage the region’s cool climate and abundant renewable energy. This includes the launch of a pilot line by Rapidus Corporation, aiming for mass production of next-generation semiconductors, as well as the construction of data centers across the region that focus on renewable energy sources.
Sapporo has attracted attention for its strong talent pool. For example, SEGA Corporation has established its second domestic development base here, and AXA Life Insurance Co., Ltd has partially relocated its headquarters functions to Sapporo as part of its business continuity planning, taking advantage of the area's low risk of natural disasters. These cases reflect a growing trend of companies choosing Hokkaido and Sapporo as strategic locations for their operations.
What would you like to say to businesses that are thinking about setting up operations in Japan or your Special Zone?
Hokkaido is currently advancing a variety of GX projects, leveraging its vast renewable energy potential. To attract domestic and international investments in GX industries, Hokkaido and Sapporo have been actively developing support systems and infrastructure. This includes the establishment of the Sapporo Transnational Expansion and Partnership (STEP) office, which provides English-language support for overseas companies considering expansion, covering both business and lifestyle aspects. Additionally, we have launched the GX Promotion Tax Initiative, a special tax incentive program for financial and GX-related businesses. We also offer robust support for startups in areas such as GX, AI, and DX, particularly in terms of fundraising and capital access. Through these initiatives, we are creating an environment that supports corporate expansion and investment.
We sincerely hope that companies engaged in financial asset management and GX-related industries will take a close look at what Hokkaido and Sapporo have to offer and consider choosing our region as a base for their business activities.
