Press Conference Highlights Regional Achievements and Policy Priorities

On August 22, Kagoshima Prefecture held a press conference to announce a major space business event and respond to media questions regarding green tea production, sports facility development, and rising rice prices.

Kagoshima to Host Space Business Event in October

Ahead of the Q&A session, the prefecture announced a space industry event to be held in October in Kagoshima. The event aims to build momentum for Japan's space business and facilitate business matching opportunities.

Highlights will include booths from space-related companies, networking sessions, an open day at JAXA's rocket launch sites, and a keynote lecture by a Japanese astronaut affiliated with Axiom Space, a U.S.-based space company.

The governor emphasized Kagoshima's central role in Japan's space sector, noting that the prefecture hosts two rocket launch sites. He expressed hopes that more companies and individuals will take interest in the field, despite its technical challenges.

Kagoshima Becomes Japan’s Top Producer of New Green Tea

In 2025, Kagoshima Prefecture became Japan’s leading producer of *shincha*—the earliest harvested green tea buds—for the first time, surpassing Shizuoka Prefecture.

The governor stated that this achievement presents an opportunity to strengthen Kagoshima's tea branding, expand awareness, and open new sales channels. He also announced support measures to boost production and promote exports, citing strong international demand.

Plans for Sports Convention Center and Soccer Stadium

Reporters asked about the prefecture's plans to establish two major sports facilities: a sports convention center and a soccer stadium. The governor provided the following updates:

- Preparations for design proposals for the sports convention center are progressing smoothly. The business operator will be selected by March 2026.

- The center is envisioned as a multi-purpose facility, serving not only sports but also functions such as disaster evacuation. The governor hopes for a design that incorporates universal accessibility and carbon neutrality.

- Regarding the soccer stadium, discussions are ongoing with Kagoshima City. The governor expressed a preference for a central urban location to stimulate downtown activity.

Governor's View on Rising Rice Prices

The governor also shared his thoughts on the recent surge in rice prices:

- Rice cultivation is a vital industry, as rice is Japan's staple food and Kagoshima produces high-quality varieties.

- While the price increase poses challenges for consumers, it is necessary to ensure stable production, given that previous prices were unsustainably low.

- The national government should take responsibility for stabilizing rice prices.

- Kagoshima is currently facing a supply shortage, and the governor stressed the need to increase production to meet local demand.