Maritime cluster of Japan: implications for the cluster formation policies

Abstract

This paper makes an analysis of Japan's maritime cluster in terms of how it has been developed and whether it has a sound basis at present; and, further, what kind of institutional framework serves as a catalyst agent for cooperation among the cluster members and their workers. Versatility for applying the same to other countries will also be evaluated. In the former part of this paper, measurement of Japanese maritime cluster is attempted. The latter part gives consideration of its characteristics and the factors that unite the people who are engaged in the cooperation among the cluster members. Methodology mainly relied on individual interviews and direct observations within the industries. The research result shows that Japan's maritime cluster has a substantial size and is competitive with sustainability. The observation of cluster management method has revealed that: (1) at the initial stage of cluster formation, a strong government support for incubating each industry is necessary; (2) business networking, especially long-term relationship between firms and support from financial institutions, is essential; and (3) human resource management based on the long-term co-working spirit is vital. This result gives clues for maritime policy formation for cluster development in the countries to follow.