The Japanese government has unveiled ambitious plans to significantly boost esports in the country.

According to The Japan Times, the government intends to work with the private sector to use esports to revitalise regional economies and help increase economic participation, especially for people with disabilities.

Plans call for the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry to work with companies and legal experts to develop a framework covering things like intellectual property rights, to help make Japan more attractive for esports. It is estimated that the initiative could generate up to ¥285 billion ($2.6 billion) in economic value per year by 2025.

With Japan already having one of the world’s biggest video games markets, and a highly developed gaming industry, it is hoped the country can now harness the potential of esports, especially in terms of large-scale events.

Esports investment is already increasing in Japan, with companies like Konami and Bandai Namco currently building dedicated state-of-the-art facilities, but the country is still lagging behind the United States, China, and Europe when it comes to esports events.

AYO.NEWS says:

Considering Japan is one of the most important markets for video games, it may seem strange that esports events haven’t found the traction they have elsewhere in the world. Though, it should be noted that single-player titles for smartphones and consoles still dominate the Japanese gaming market.

Even so, its good to see the Japanese government recognise the economic potential of the industry and take concrete action. Its also good to see the accessibility of esports acknowledged, in terms of helping improve economic opportunities for the disabled.  

AYO.NEWS says features the opinion of the author and does not necessarily reflect the views of Pentagon Digital Limited.

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