November 2009Expanding Opportunities for Global Water Infrastructure Projects --Japanese Companies Gear Up to Participate in Major Water Infrastructure Projects--

Water has attracted attention as a valuable natural resource, and is sometimes even called "blue oil" or "blue gold." Earth is known as the Blue Planet, and yet only 3% of its water is fresh, and less than 1% of its water can be used. Water, essential for life, is also essential for agriculture and other industries, but many countries suffer from a lack of water. Newly emerging economies have an especially great need for large quantities for their economic growth. On the bright side, unlike resources like oil or coal, water can be reused and is part of the natural water cycle. Some enterprises are "water majors" with impressive experience in water infrastructure development, and a number of Japanese companies have highly advanced technical expertise in water management, seawater desalination, efficient water use, and flood control. JBIC will provide a wide range of financial support measures so that Japanese companies can use this type of expertise while participating in water infrastructure development projects in different parts of the world.