Recommendations by the “Study Group on the Comprehensive Physical Distribution Policy in the 2020s” Compiled

The Study Group consisting of academic experts and relevant stakeholders has held seven meetings since July 2020 and members have discussed ideal approaches to future distribution policies, as an effort for formulating the next Comprehensive Physical Distribution Policy.

Recently, the results of the discussions were compiled into recommendations by the Study Group.

The challenges currently faced by the distribution industry in Japan are becoming more and more serious and evident amid drastic social changes caused by the spread of novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). The recommendations present future policy directions from the following three points of view, while suggesting the necessity to intensively take measures to cope with such challenges:

1. Thorough optimization of the supply chain as a whole through promoting digital transformation and standardization of distribution (Achievement of simple and smooth distribution)

2. Promotion of labor shortage countermeasures and distribution structural reform (Achievement of bearer-friendly distribution)

3. Creation of resilient and sustainable distribution networks (Achievement of tough and flexible distribution)

Appendix

• Recommendation by the “Study Group on the Comprehensive Physical Distribution Policy in the 2020s” (in Japanese) (PDF:573KB)

Reference

See the website of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (the following URL) for the outline of the recommendations, the details of the meetings and related materials, etc. of the “Study Group on the Comprehensive Physical Distribution Policy in the 2020s.”

• MLIT web page (in Japanese)

Division in Charge

Logistics Policy Planning Office, Commerce and Service Industry Policy Group