The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) today requested prime contractors and prefectural associations for the promotion of subcontracting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to give special consideration to subcontracting SMEs affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake. These companies and associations are asked to maintain business relations with affected SMEs to the greatest extent possible or to place higher priority on them in providing business matching services.

(1) Business retention and resumption

As disaster-affected subcontracting SMEs continue or resume business operations, prime contractors should maintain business relations with them to the greatest extent possible or give them higher priority in sourcing.

(2) Prevention of damage from harmful rumors

With respect to the incident at the nuclear power station, prime contractors should act appropriately in business dealings, based on scientific and objective evidence.

(1) Higher priority in providing business matching services

The associations should place higher priority on affected SMEs in providing business matching services and enhance assistance for SMEs in disaster-stricken areas.

(2) Support for business retention and resumption

As affected SMEs resume operations, the associations should help them smoothly resume business with the traditional prime contractors with which dealings have been temporarily suspended for inevitable reasons after the disaster.

* Prefectural associations for the promotion of subcontracting SMEs
These generally refer to organizations (such as incorporated foundations) founded by prefectural governments pursuant to Article 11 of the Act on the Promotion of Subcontracting Small and Medium-sized Enterprises. They are responsible for assisting SMEs in finding subcontracting opportunities and providing advice on subcontracting issues.

April 22, 2011

Fair Trade Division, Business Environment Department, Small and Medium Enterprise Agency

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