Japan to launch disaster agency in November 2026 to coordinate with local governments

TOKYO – Japan’s Cabinet endorsed on Dec 26 a basic policy for the establishment of a disaster management agency in November 2026, stating the agency will oversee the response to disasters in the quake-prone country and prepare damage reduction measures for crises.

As part of steps for dealing with a potential megaquake along the Japan Trench and Chishima Trench as well as

one along the Nankai Trough

, the government will establish regional hubs to enhance coordination with local governments.

While the functions and locations of the hubs are subject to further discussions, the government is considering opening them in fiscal 2027 or later in each of the regions predicted to be hit by megaquakes, according to a government source.

A recent magnitude 7.5 earthquake

that rattled north-eastern and northern Japan highlighted the necessity to provide safety tips and evacuation information to foreign nationals more effectively as well, as the country witnesses an inbound tourism boom and an influx of foreign workers.

The new agency will be under direct Cabinet supervision, with the post of disaster management minister to be created to assist the prime minister.

The agency will have the authority to make recommendations to other ministries and agencies that they will be obliged to respect. KYODO NEWS