The Shikoku region, located south of Honshu and east of Kyushu, comprises four prefectures: Tokushima, Kagawa, Ehime, and Kochi. While Shikoku is less industrialized compared to some of Japan’s other regions, it has a diverse economic base with key industries and notable companies contributing to its economy. Here’s an overview of key sectors and notable companies in the Shikoku region:

1. Agriculture and Food Processing
   • • Shikoku has a strong agricultural sector, producing citrus fruits, vegetables, and seafood. Food processing companies capitalize on the region’s agricultural products.
2. Paper and Pulp
   • • Ehime Prefecture, in particular, is known for its significant paper and pulp industry, with several major companies operating in this sector.
3. Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals
   • • The region hosts various chemical and pharmaceutical companies, contributing to both local and global markets.
4. Machinery and Manufacturing
   • • Shikoku has a range of manufacturing industries, producing machinery, textiles, and other goods.
5. Tourism
   • • Given its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, Shikoku attracts tourists, contributing to the local economy.

1. Oji Holdings Corporation
   • • Location: Ehime Prefecture
     • Industry: Paper and pulp
     • Overview: Oji Holdings is one of Japan’s leading paper manufacturers, with significant operations in Shikoku, particularly in the production of paper and related products.
2. Daio Paper Corporation
   • • Location: Shikokuchuo, Ehime Prefecture
     • Industry: Paper and pulp
     • Overview: Daio Paper is another major player in the paper industry, known for its production of paper, tissue, and packaging products.
3. Nichia Corporation
   • • Location: Anan, Tokushima Prefecture
     • Industry: Electronics and chemicals
     • Overview: Nichia is a leading manufacturer of LEDs and phosphors, playing a crucial role in the global electronics and lighting industries.
4. Shikoku Chemicals Corporation
   • • Location: Tokushima Prefecture
     • Industry: Chemicals
     • Overview: Shikoku Chemicals produces a wide range of chemical products, including agrochemicals, industrial chemicals, and specialty chemicals.
5. Tosoh Corporation
   • • Location: Various locations in Shikoku
     • Industry: Chemicals and materials
     • Overview: Tosoh is a diversified chemical company involved in the production of petrochemicals, specialty products, and advanced materials.
6. Imabari Shipbuilding Co., Ltd.
   • • Location: Imabari, Ehime Prefecture
     • Industry: Shipbuilding
     • Overview: Imabari Shipbuilding is one of Japan’s largest shipbuilders, known for constructing a wide range of vessels, including bulk carriers, container ships, and tankers.

Shikoku is engaged in several development initiatives to enhance its economic landscape and industrial capabilities. Notable projects include:

• Shikoku Smart Community Projects: These initiatives aim to create sustainable communities through the integration of renewable energy sources, smart grids, and energy-efficient technologies.
• Tourism Development: Efforts to promote Shikoku as a tourist destination focus on leveraging its cultural sites, natural beauty, and traditional festivals to attract both domestic and international visitors.
• Infrastructure Improvement: Ongoing projects to enhance transportation infrastructure, including road, rail, and port facilities, aim to improve connectivity within Shikoku and with other regions of Japan.

The Shikoku region, though smaller and less industrialized than other parts of Japan, plays a crucial role in the country’s economy through its diverse industries. Key sectors such as agriculture, paper and pulp, chemicals, and shipbuilding are well-represented by notable companies like Oji Holdings, Daio Paper, Nichia, and Imabari Shipbuilding. Development initiatives focused on sustainability, tourism, and infrastructure are set to further enhance the region’s economic potential, making Shikoku an important contributor to Japan’s overall economic landscape.