To prevent the loss of ships to registration with other flag states-"flagouts"-measures are being taken to strengthen marine transportation. In Europe, for example, a new ship registry is being introduced. In Japan, the Cabinet has suggested the concept of Special Structural Reform Zones. I believe that Kobe, with its high concentration of maritime industries, maritime administration, marine education and research, marine lawyer & inspector, crewing and marine supplier functions, is an ideal location for a Special Marine Transport Zone that would serve as the hub for a second Japanese ship registry system.

The total catch of Japan's fishing industry is almost caught by fishing vessels and small vessels of 20ton or less is fully 98%. It is time to open our eyes to the fact that most shipwrecks of fishing vessels occur with these vessels. Activities in Hokkaido to prevent shipwreck of fishing vessels have slashed the number of shipwrecks in half, but the problem remains far from eradicated. It is hoped that systematic changes can be introduced to eliminate the risk of shipwreck.

This presentation summarizes the proposals of Integrated Coastal Zone Management Research Study Group, which recently completed a comprehensive study of the various problems confronting coastal regions and of the desired forms of management for these regions. The acceptance or refusal of policies based on these proposals will be a vital test case for the achievement of comprehensive management of coastal regions.