April 16, 2025 Public Comments on Cabotage Rules Affecting Offshore Wind Developments
The EBC has submitted public comments to Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT), advocating for reforms to the cabotage rules affecting offshore wind development.
While welcoming proposed procedural improvements, the EBC raises concerns about restrictions on foreign vessels and crew, which continue to limit project feasibility due to a shortage of domestic resources and expertise. The EBC stresses the need for clear, transparent criteria for Special Permits and urges MLIT to provide early and public clarification to ensure predictability for investors and developers.
The EBC also highlights the risks of relying on “unwritten” requirements – such as proving vessel unavailability or unrealistic reflagging expectations—which create uncertainty and discourage international participation.
Without meaningful changes, Japan risks delays in offshore wind progress due to limited access to essential vessels. The EBC calls for a broader review of cabotage regulations to enable a more flexible and globally competitive offshore wind supply chain.