During the chaotic times after the end
of World War II, support measures for small and medium
enterprises served as one of the important measures
aimed toward the reconstruction of the country and stable
improvement of the lives of the people. The Small and
Medium Enterprise Agency, which was established in 1948
against such a historical backdrop, has implemented
various measures for small and medium enterprises, with
the aim of responding to changes in circumstances, such
as the oil shocks and appreciation of the yen, as the
external bureau of the Ministry of International Trade
and Industry.
At present, the issues that the Agency is tackling include
the support of funding, computerization of small and
medium enterprises, inheritance of traditional craftsmanship
and revitalization of shopping districts. Management
support centers have been established throughout Japan
with the intention of further strengthening the support
system.
