Overview of the Fisheries Public Opinion Survey Preliminary Report
Overview
The Fisheries Agency conducted the first Cabinet Office public opinion survey focused specifically on fisheries to understand public sentiment ahead of the 2027 revision of the Basic Plan for Fisheries. The survey targeted Japanese nationals aged 18 and over nationwide and examined expectations for the functions of fisheries, fisheries policy, and engagement with fishing village communities. Related measures introduced include the next Basic Plan for Fisheries, “Umigyo,” “Fish Day,” and the “Miryougyo Project.”
Key points
- The first Cabinet Office public opinion survey focused specifically on fisheries was conducted.
- The survey targeted 3,000 Japanese nationals aged 18 and over nationwide and collected responses from 1,522 people.
- The survey consisted of questions on the functions of fisheries, fisheries policy, and engagement with fishing village communities.
- The next Basic Plan for Fisheries is being considered with the goal of Cabinet approval in March 2027.
Overview
The Fisheries Agency revises the Basic Plan for Fisheries, which establishes basic policies and other matters concerning fisheries measures, approximately every five years, and is considering its revision in 2027. This survey was conducted to reflect public attitudes toward fisheries in the next plan.
The survey was conducted by mail from July 16 to August 23, 2026, and the response rate was 50.7%. The preliminary figures were compiled from survey forms received by August 14.
Impact
The survey results will be used to consider the next Basic Plan for Fisheries based on public sentiment.
“Umigyo” is expected to create local vitality, income, and employment, while “Fish Day” promotes efforts to expand consumption of fishery products and communicates the appeal of fishery products and the importance of their sustainable use.
Details
The main survey topics were changes in the marine environment and the functions of fisheries, fisheries policies capable of responding to changes in the marine environment, and efforts to promote public understanding for revitalizing fishing villages. The main questions asked respondents to select multiple answers concerning the roles expected of fisheries, expectations for fisheries measures, and engagement with fishing village communities whose vitality had declined.
Among the related measures, the Planning Subcommittee of the Fisheries Policy Council has been considering the next Basic Plan for Fisheries since April 2026. “Umigyo” refers to businesses that use the regional resources of the sea and fishing villages to meet needs in Japan and abroad and create local vitality, income, and employment.
Since October 2022, the Fisheries Agency has designated the 3rd to 7th of every month as “Fish Day.” In July 2026, it launched the “Miryougyo Project,” which aims to expand the use of fish, including underutilized and unused fish, and increase their added value.