Setouchi Becomes the First Japanese City to Release an English-Language Integrated Report

Setouchi City in Okayama Prefecture is breaking new ground as one of Japan's first municipalities to publish an integrated report, according to the Nikkan Kogyo Shimbun. This format, more commonly seen in the corporate world, combines financial data with broader insights on strategy, governance, and sustainability. The city's Setouchi City Integrated Report follows the internationally recognized framework set by the International Integrated Reporting Council (IIRC).

Local Report, Global Message

In a notable move for a Japanese local government, Setouchi began releasing the report in English as of March 2025. The aim is to reach a wider audience and position the city as a forward-thinking model of transparency and global outreach.

City officials describe the report as a tool to communicate "fair and neutral" information, helping both residents and external stakeholders better understand Setouchi's goals, challenges, and achievements. It also serves as a way to highlight the city's broader appeal and strengthen its brand.

Beyond its content, the process of compiling the report has brought together departments across city hall, fostering internal collaboration and promoting what officials call "integrated thinking."
The English edition reinforces Setouchi's role as a unique case study for other municipalities in Japan looking to align governance with international standards and communicate more effectively on the global stage.

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Author: Daniel Manning