Scotland's Forestry Cluster Experience and Relevance to Japanese Prefectural Forestry-A Case Study of Nagano Prefecture

概要

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Porter's Industrial Cluster Theory has been applied to Scotland's forestry industries since 2000, and this paper analyses the relevance of this experience for prefectural forestry policies in Japan, based on Nagano Prefecture as a case study. First, the paper discusses the key contributions to industry competitiveness resulting from clusters and their networks. Next, the current situation in Nagano is considered together with emerging prefecture policies to increase timber supply and encourage its forestry industry. Strengths and weaknesses in the prefecture's forestry system are identified and the extent to which Nagano's policies already reflect experience in Scotland is summarised. While many of the overall aims are similar to those of Scotland's forestry cluster, Nagano Prefecture has some weaknesses including the fragmented ownership structure and the multiple stages in the distribution chain. Based on Scotland's experience, potential remains to develop and manage effective cluster networks, and to stimulate cooperation across the supply chain between timber producers and users to improve productivity and develop markets, thereby 'co-creating' value.