2011 Volume 13 Issue 4 Pages 010-021
A committee called “Unification of Two Subway Operator in Tokyo Metropolitan Area” has been setup to facilitate the unification process. However, each of three key stakeholders, namely, the national government, Tokyo local government, and Tokyo Metro Ltd maintain their respective position firmly. Undertaking a historical analysis, this research study examines issues related to unification of two subway operators, complete privatization of Tokyo Metro, and improvement of services to railway users. The study also looks at the meaning of unification in the context of the Land Transport Regulation Act, since the Act is still in force. In addition, the study also examines the possibility that the Antitrust Act is invoked in connection with the unification action.