Launch of the Esports Activation Review Conference

 ■Launch of the Esports Activation Review Conference

The “Review Conference on Measures to Activate Esports” has begun.

It is hosted by the Japan Esports Union (JeSU) through a commission from the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry. I am serving as the chairperson.

While researching the market size and the conditions overseas, we will identify the purpose and issues of esports, and seek action by the industrial world, government, and municipalities.

Committee members include professional esports players, the Computer Entertainment Supplier’s Association, operators of teams, operators of tournaments and events, Intel, Nippon TV, Goldman Sachs, the Japan Association of Travel Agents, attorneys, hospitals, and municipalities. The Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry; the Cabinet Office Intellectual Property Strategy Headquarters; the Ministry of Public Management, Home Affairs, Posts, and Telecommunications; the Consumer Affairs Agency; and the Japan Sports Agency are also participating.

I delivered a greeting.

“Esports are finally becoming serious.

　As JeSU reported at Tokyo Game Show, the environment is being prepared, as regulatory issues are being resolved.

　If last year was the first year for esports in Japan, the next objective is for Japan to become a major force in esports and eventually be the global center.

　5G also attracted attention at Tokyo Game Show, and this is an opportunity for a great leap in development, as esports and 5G started up simultaneously in Japan.

　Japan will be attracting attention from around the world ahead of the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics.

　This conference will also focus on what kind of strategy should be implemented with what timing.

　Numerous parties involved have come to this venue.

　Esports is a growing field that cannot be contained in a single industry.

　It is expressive culture, education, and social participation and contributes to regional revitalization.

　I would like to uncover and transmit its significance and potential.

　There may be negative views on games, but I would like to reverse these views and shine a light.

　I would like to turn this into action by the government and industrial world.”

1. As a sport, how will it incorporate the perspectives of players and fans?

2. As an industry, how will it see events, the media, business opportunities, and investments?

3. As a public service, how will it incorporate education, healthcare, welfare, administration, laws, and systems?

I shared that there are various angles.

I took on a robust and varied task that is difficult to organize.

This is the first serious esports strategic council in Japan after all.

By the way, this conference will be fully open.