Title: Perspectives on industrial clusters in the Japanese biotechnology industry

Authors: Nobutaka Odake

Addresses: Nagoya Institute of Technology, Gokisocho, Showaku 466-8555, Nagoya, Japan

Abstract: Recent developments in Japanese biotechnology clusters are examined. The biotechnology industry in Japan is rapidly evolving from its primary stage. As a result of the efforts of national and regional government, the number of bio-ventures is increasing in many regions. Through the industrial cluster plans and regional projects, it is becoming possible to comprehend the clusters, which are being formed in various parts of Japan. Value-added roles of intermediaries in clusters are described as follows: building trust among firms or participants through council, providing workforce development and training programs, facilitating access to shared resources.

Keywords: bioclusters; bio-related company; bioventures; industrial clusters; biotechnology clusters; Japan; recruitment; tissue engineering; legal regulation; venture capital; work force development; cluster planning; knowledge cluster initiative; intermediaries; trust; training; shared resources.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMTM.2009.027771

International Journal of Manufacturing Technology and Management, 2009 Vol.18 No.4, pp.371 - 385

Published online: 10 Aug 2009 *

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