In June 2001 the Japanese government passed two important laws, the Basic Law on Fisheries and the Law on Upgrading of Fishing Ports and Fishing Grounds. These two laws outline basic philosophy and policy direction for the nation's fisheries and stipulate specific measures to upgrade Japan's aquaculture base. Based on these laws, a conference was held in March 2002 to decide a Basic Fisheries Plan and a Basic Plan for Upgrading Fishing Ports and Fishing Grounds. A new paradigm in management of coastal areas has begun, embracing Japan's fishing ports, fishing grounds and fishing villages. Its success depends on the goodwill and efforts of fisheries operators and the people of the region.