A Message from the Governor

Located in the very center of the nation, Gifu Prefecture has always been a place for vigorous interaction between people and goods, as the ancient meeting point between the cultures of Japan's east and west.

Today, with a developing transport infrastructure that includes the Tokai Kanjo Expressway, Chubu Centrair International Airport and the completion of the Tokai−Hokuriku Expressway in July 2008, Gifu has access to international transport infrastructures on both the Japan Sea and Pacific coasts.Its domestic and international accessibility is soaring to new levels.The western section of the Tokai Kanjo Expressway, whose Seki Hiromi Interchange will be opened in Spring 2009, is being developed speedily.Alongside the Tomei and Meishin Expressways, which traverse the prefecture, a large scale trunk road network will be completed in the near future. This Marks the beginning of a period of great exchange, and we are developing Gifu's resources in every area.

In addition to the superior standard of our transport network, Gifu has a top quality workforce, a stable landmass, and plentiful water resources.Since 2005, we have welcomed a large number of businesses, centering in the industrial complexes along the expressways.

Especially for manufacturing companies seeking to establish themselves in Gifu Prefecture, we have set up the,"Gifu Prefectural Subsidy System for the Promotion of Business Establishment", aimed at assisting with initial investments.In accordance with the national, "Business Location Promotion Act", we have set up incentive programs across the Prefecture, including tax incentives and special provisions under factory placement laws.

Through the development of an attractive business environment that includes cooperation with the wider Chubu- Hokuriku economic region; through cultivating excellent human resources; and through supporting links between local businesses, we will support the development of all businesses, actively and continuously.

Thank you for your interest in these policies and in Gifu's business environment.In this era of new business development, we hope you will consider expansion into Gifu, a place with untapped potential for infinite growth and success.

We look forward to seeing you in Gifu Prefecture.