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Industrial Districts and Economic Development in Japan: The Case of Tokyo and Osaka

Author

Listed:
  • Kuniko Fujita

    (Hiroshima University)

  • Richard Child Hill

    (Michigan State University)

Abstract

Dynamics in the world economy since the 1970s have provoked a debate between proponents of industrial district and corporate dualism theories of economic change. This article investigates how well the two theories fit economic development trajectories in Tokyo and Osaka and draws lessons for North American economic revitalization efforts. District and dualism analysts both claim Japanese industrial organization fits their thesis. Findings by Japanese researchers and results from our own field work suggest that Japan's development pattern (a) combines elements emphasized in both theories, but (b) district theory fits contemporary Tokyo and Osaka much better than dualism. Place-based, small-firm networks, supported by local institutions and strategic government policies, have been a vital ingredient in Japan's manufacturing success. The range of internationally effective competitive strategies is thus wider and more fluid than what the new dualism theorists allow.

Suggested Citation

  • Kuniko Fujita & Richard Child Hill, 1998. "Industrial Districts and Economic Development in Japan: The Case of Tokyo and Osaka," Economic Development Quarterly, , vol. 12(2), pages 181-198, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ecdequ:v:12:y:1998:i:2:p:181-198
    DOI: 10.1177/089124249801200206
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    Cited by:

    1. Kuniko Fujita, 2003. "Neo-industrial Tokyo: Urban Development and Globalisation in Japan's State-centred Developmental Capitalism," Urban Studies, Urban Studies Journal Limited, vol. 40(2), pages 249-281, February.
    2. Kuniko Fujita, 2000. "Asian Crisis, Financial Systems and Urban Development," Urban Studies, Urban Studies Journal Limited, vol. 37(12), pages 2197-2216, November.
    3. Nagao, Kenkichi & Edgington, David W., 2023. "Local industrial displacement, zoning conflicts and monozukuri planning in Higashi Osaka, Japan," Land Use Policy, Elsevier, vol. 134(C).

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