In response to the ongoing challenges posed by Japan’s shrinking population and aging rural demographics, the agriculture ministry is introducing a new initiative to dispatch corporate personnel to rural areas.

The initiative, part of a new regional revitalization policy under the administration of Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, aims to promote rural development through corporate-sponsored training programs and employee side jobs that will help connect businesses with farming villages. A task force involving relevant ministries, local governments and businesses will be formed in February to discuss concrete strategies.

The project aims to increase the number of people engaged with rural areas by fostering stronger partnerships between businesses and local farming communities.

The plan includes having corporate employees assist with seasonal harvest work and regional events during peak times.

For businesses, the initiative offers the opportunity for employees to gain valuable experience and insights from rural exchanges, potentially enhancing corporate value. The ministry also plans to create a more supportive environment for employees interested in taking up side jobs or additional roles in agriculture-related work.