Owing to unique historical circumstances, the field of Maritime Law has not received sufficient recognition at Japanese universities. However, in order to deal satisfactorily with maritime problems and compete effectively with Europe and the U.S., it is now essential that industry, academia, and government work together to promote research and education in Comprehensive Maritime Law. The Institute of Maritime Law has begun efforts to ensure that universities fulfill their responsibility as centers for research and education, as befits their role in an ocean and maritime state.