Nagasaki’s October Agenda: Thailand, China, Tour de Kyushu, and Staff Protection

On October 9, Nagasaki Prefecture held a press conference to announce four major regional initiatives: a promotional visit to Thailand, a diplomatic visit to China, the launch of Tour de Kyushu 2025, and the formulation of a basic policy to address customer harassment toward public employees.

Promoting Nagasaki in Thailand

The governor will visit Thailand from October 18 to 21 to promote Nagasaki’s local products and tourism. During the visit, he plans to meet with import trading companies to discuss expanding exports of regional specialties such as Nagasaki Wagyu beef and marine products.

In addition, the prefecture will host a promotional fair at the JW Marriott Hotel in Bangkok to showcase Nagasaki’s offerings. The governor expressed his strong commitment to raising international awareness of Nagasaki and boosting its export potential.

Strengthening Ties with China

The governor will also travel to China to participate in the 40th anniversary celebration of the founding of the Chinese Consulate General in Nagasaki. He will be joined by members of the prefectural assembly and other officials. The delegation plans to visit the Chinese government, the Japan-China Amity Association, and the Japanese Embassy in China.

The governor stated his hope that the visit will further strengthen diplomatic and economic ties between Nagasaki and China.

Tour de Kyushu 2025 Launches in Sasebo

The governor introduced the opening events of Tour de Kyushu 2025, an international cycling race that will begin in Sasebo City. Approximately 100 cyclists from Japan and abroad—including former Tour de France participants—are expected to compete.

The race will kick off with a criterium event in Sasebo on October 10, followed by stages in Fukuoka, Kumamoto, Miyazaki, and Oita prefectures. The Sasebo event will also feature related activities such as a talk show with prominent guests and a BMX performance.

Policy Against Customer Harassment

In response to growing concerns about customer harassment in both private and public sectors, Nagasaki Prefecture has formulated a basic policy to protect its civil servants. The policy aims to shield employees from behavior that deviates from social norms and to ensure a safe working environment.

Based on this policy, the prefectural government will develop a manual to guide staff on how to respond when facing harassment from citizens.

Q&A Highlights

Following the announcements, The governor addressed several questions from the press:

On the Nishi-Kyushu Shinkansen

The governor commented on the October 8 meeting between Saga Prefecture and the national government, calling it meaningful. He acknowledged that while the issue involves national infrastructure and is outside Nagasaki'ss direct jurisdiction, it remains a matter of public debate.

On the New LDP Leader

Regarding the appointment of Sanae Takaichi as the new leader of the Liberal Democratic Party, the governor expressed hope that she would prioritize regional issues, referring to geographical difficulties of Nagasaki and its strategic role in national defense. He also urged her to take active steps toward completing the Nishi-Kyushu Shinkansen project.

On Minimum Wage Increases

The governor welcomed the upward trend in minimum wages from an economic perspective but noted that rapid increases pose challenges for business owners. He emphasized the need for swift and targeted support measures based on a clear understanding of their needs.