Reassessing Our Strengths

Since its establishment in December 1966, the Tohoku Economic Federation has worked tirelessly to advance the development of the Tohoku region, guided by its founding principle, “Tohoku as One.” Thanks to the steadfast support of many people, the Federation will celebrate its 60th anniversary in December 2026.

Over the years, the region has endured and overcome numerous challenges, including the Great East Japan Earthquake and other natural disasters, economic crises, and the COVID-19 pandemic. I would like to take this opportunity to express my profound gratitude to all those whose dedicated efforts have laid the foundations for the progress that Tohoku and Niigata enjoy today, as well as to everyone who continues to support the Federation and its activities.

Over the past six decades, our economy and society have achieved remarkable growth and reached a new level of maturity. At the same time, we now find ourselves entering an unprecedented era in which population decline is becoming an increasingly serious reality. Tohoku is experiencing demographic decline at a faster pace than many other parts of Japan, making the transition to a society and economy built on the premise of a shrinking population an urgent priority.

Businesses, too, must confront this challenge by drawing on every available means, including improving productivity, accelerating digital transformation, enabling people from diverse backgrounds, including international talent, to fulfil their potential, and expanding into overseas markets. Meanwhile, growing global instability and rising prices are having a profound impact on both business activity and people’s everyday lives.

There is no question that we are living in an age in which the future is increasingly difficult to foresee. Yet it is precisely at such a time that we must return to a fundamental question: What kind of Tohoku do we wish to pass on to future generations?

Our vision is of a region where businesses can prosper and embrace new challenges, where people can continue to live with security and peace of mind, and where the distinctive natural environment, traditions, culture, and human potential of each community inspire and attract people from near and far. By bringing together rewarding work, a high quality of life, and the unique appeal of the region, we will strive to create a Tohoku of which we can be proud: an outstanding place to work, to live, and to visit.

Each of the seven prefectures of Tohoku and Niigata possesses its own distinctive character and strengths. These include a rich heritage shaped by expansive landscapes and abundant natural resources; agricultural and livestock products with strong brand recognition in global markets; some of Japan’s greatest potential for renewable energy; concentrations of industrial expertise in fields such as semiconductors and automotive manufacturing; and world-class academic and research capabilities, exemplified by Tohoku University, which has been designated a University for International Research Excellence, and NanoTerasu.

Equally important are the natural landscapes, traditions, cultures, and ways of life that have been nurtured in communities throughout the region. I firmly believe that these distinctive strengths of Tohoku and Niigata hold immense potential to open new pathways to the future.

In an era of population decline, it is more important than ever for communities across the region to pool their strengths, stand together, and take on new challenges as one. A more prosperous Tohoku will contribute to a more prosperous Japan.

With this conviction, and with the founding spirit of “Tohoku as One” firmly in our hearts, the Tohoku Economic Federation will continue to foster unity throughout the region and serve as a driving force in supporting the ambitions of its businesses and communities. We look forward to working together with all of you as we shape the future of Tohoku and Niigata.

I sincerely ask for your continued understanding and support for the Federation’s activities.

General Inocorporated Association
Tohoku Economic Federation
Chairman, Kojiro Higuchi