Research on Cluster of Japanese Local Food Industry.

―A Case Study on Olive Industry in Shodoshima Island―

Abstract

　The food industry in Japan has many community-based which has deep relationship in a region as a local industry. In recent years, it is active for regional revitalization using agricultural products to create new local industries, tourism resources and employment. Along with the expansion of demand for olive oil in Japan, the entry of new entrants into the country has occurred, and the production of olives is increasing. Objectives of the study is to classify developmental promotion process by phase in the case of domestic olive industry which is developing in recent years, case of Shodoshima in Kagawa prefecture, and the elements of the development of Shodoshima's olive industry cluster based on the area. This paper’s methodology, on conducting this research, statistics and literature surveys were used for data collection. Interviews and filed investigation were distributed among companies and institution. The results of the analysis show that, there are four development factors sharing common problem of regional problems with other industries and related organizations, that there are material characteristics suitable for climate, external demand and basic research support, problem sharing among industries has played an important role. It is transforming into an industry with gradual flexibility under a culture based on "co-existence". The community consciousness that is fostered expands the field and sharing purpose with the change of the phase, and the independent collaborative activities lead to organic intersections. Also, based on the knowledge cultivated in existing local industries, value chain such as pursuing advanced expertise has occurred, leading to the development of the area by the development of industry.