Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held the ninth meeting of the Industrial Competitiveness Council at the Prime Minister's Office.

During the meeting, discussion took place on the points in question concerning the compilation of the growth strategy, the status of the reviews undertaken by relevant councils and others, and the National Strategic Special Zone (provisional title).

Based on the discussion, the Prime Minister said in his address,

"Thank you once again for engaging in intensive discussions.
Through the years, a lot of growth strategies have been created in Japan. People ask, 'how will the new one be any different from the previous growth strategies?' While, yes, it is a fact that the new growth strategy contains many elements that have been discussed a great deal in years past, the difference lies in the ability to take action. I am convinced that 'without action, there will be no growth.'
Already, the Abe Cabinet has set bold targets as part of the third prong of economic revival, including participation in Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations, electric power system reform, and the elimination of childcare waiting lists.
Amid the deflationary economy which has continued up to now, companies and people have lost confidence. This was the biggest problem. In this context, I believe human resources, goods, and money all fell into a slump. It is perhaps entrepreneurs who lost the most confidence under this deflation mindset. Cabinet Office surveys have shown that although consumption has finally started to pick up recently, unfortunately capital investment has not returned to its previous levels.
Wet firewood will not ignite even if lighter fluid is applied. It is only recently that the firewood has dried and lighter fluid has been applied. Therefore, I hope that precisely now, at this very moment, many people will light up the economy. Indeed, the mood can be changed, and I believe the real challenge starts now.
To get Japan back on a strong path to growth, the private sector's investment, determination, and actions are required. We, the Government, too are resolved to mobilize an array of measures to support the actions of the private sector. The results of the vitalization of investment and increased productivity will be returned to the people in the form of increased incomes. This, for the first time, will link to a virtuous cycle of growth. That is our goal.
Today, we also heard from Governor Inose about the National Strategic Special Zone, and very interesting opinions were shared. The National Strategic Special Zone Working Group has the task of coming up with high-impact policies through carrying out extensive discussions. I would like to ask for the cooperation of the members of the Council for compiling the report."