Japan Sets Out Roadmap to Revitalize Shipbuilding Industry by 2035

• Japan aims to double annual shipbuilding output to 18 million gross tons by 2035.
• The government targets regaining a 20% share of the global shipbuilding market.
• Sector consolidation into one to three groups is planned by 2028.
• Investment priorities include next-generation and specialized vessels.

According to Jiji Press, Japan’s transport ministry and the Cabinet Office announced on December 26 a new roadmap to revive the country’s shipbuilding industry, outlining structural reforms and investment priorities intended to restore competitiveness in the global market.

Output Targets and Market Share Goals

The roadmap sets a goal of doubling Japan’s annual ship output to 18 million gross tons by 2035 through industry realignment. Japan’s share of the global shipbuilding market has declined in recent years amid strong competition from China and South Korea, and the government now aims to recover a market share of around 20%.

Industry Consolidation Plans

A central element of the roadmap is the consolidation of domestic shipbuilding companies into one to three major groups by 2028. As part of this restructuring, it has already been decided that a vessel design firm jointly established by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd. and Imabari Shipbuilding Co. will receive investments from three major shipping companies.

Investment Focus Areas

The roadmap also highlights targeted investments in vessels that transport crude oil and food, as well as ships designed to carry liquefied carbon dioxide. In addition, it emphasizes the development of next-generation vessels powered by ammonia fuel, reflecting Japan’s focus on future-oriented ship technologies.

Policy Context

Shipbuilding has been identified as one of 17 priority investment areas under the administration of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Speaking at a press conference on Friday, transport minister Yasushi Kaneko said that the roadmap features “ambitious but achievable” goals.