As micromobility gains ground in Japan’s cities, attention has focused on challenges and proposals including stronger domestic production by Japanese companies, standardized components and expanded subsidies. Discussion has also centered on how to broaden the economic benefits for Japan and the current reliance on overseas contractors.
At present, Japanese companies often outsource production to Chinese companies even when they develop their micromobility products in Japan. Expanded subsidy programs to support domestic production and cost reductions through component standardization are needed.
The original purpose of micromobility is to expand and stabilize sales by attracting entrants from other industries, and the view was expressed that increasing domestic production could enhance its economic benefits for Japan. One proposal was to continue designing products in Japan while promoting the use of standardized components.
Standardizing components such as design-oriented brands and wheels under common component specifications could make products easier to use while enabling high-quality components to be supplied at lower prices. The government is expected to expand subsidies supporting domestic production.