While international maritime transport has becoming increasingly competitive, for the past several decades the number of Japanese registered ships and Japanese seafarers has seen a steady decline. Against this backdrop, other maritime states have taken measures to strengthen their maritime industries, and Japan has also begun concrete discussions towards a legal framework for a Tax Tonnage System.

As maritime transport is crucial to maintaining our economy and standard of living, the "Ocean Policy Guideline" identifies the "Securing of Maritime Transport" as one of the major policies concerning the ocean environment. This article describes current conditions in international maritime transport, the rapid enlargement of container ships, and the future of Japan's port facilities corresponding to the trends of developments among Asian countries.

In January of 2007 all of the world's Regional Tuna Fisheries Management Organizations (RFMO) came together in Kobe for the first time where they adopted the Course of Actions for improved management of all tuna stocks. As Japan has heretofore played a leading role in resolving many issues concerning conservation and management of tuna resource, it should continue to serve as a driving force in the implementation of the Course of Actions.
Selected Papers No.10(p.17)