From Kitakyushu to the world: AGI, a research institute that studies Asia's economy and society
Research Division
RESEARCH GROUP Ⅰ
Contemporary Issues on Asia－Japan Economic Relations
This group focuses on Japan’s ties with Asia and policy issues accompanying changes in the economic environment such as globalization. The group conducts academic research on the mechanisms and economic impacts of these changes, while also collaborating with domestic and international researchers to conduct policy research that contributes to the mutual development of Asia. The main research topics of this group include: the international flow of people （immigration, international labor migration, tourism, etc.）, international trade and FDI between Asia and Japan, and their relations of interdependence.
| Group Leader | HONMA Masayoshi |
|---|---|
| Member | KO Yi-Chun |
| NGUYEN Phung Thu Hang |
Research Projects for FY2024
Research on Japan’s food security and the role of Kyushu agriculture (ongoing)
Staff:HONMA Masayoshi
Distinguished Professor
Russia-Ukraine war and the Israeli-Palestinian struggle are now more serious and increase geopolitical risks for Japan for whom food supply depends largely on imports. Food security issue is supposed to be discussed in the Diet this year. My research this year will focus on examining the food security index, which could not be fully studied last year due to time and budget constraints, and on food security policies in other countries. In addition to South Korea and Taiwan, the research will focus on Switzerland and Israel, which are poor in food production resources. Furthermore, food security is also a matter of public awareness, and a survey will be conducted to find out the sources of anxiety and security in people’s minds. Based on the research result, I will consider the role that Kyushu agriculture plays in Japan’s food security.
The Impact of Residential Photovoltaic Installation on the Relationship between Electricity Price Shocks and Mortality in Japan
Staff:KO Yi-Chun
Assistant Professor
Recent studies have shown that high electricity prices increase summer and winter mortality rates by suppressing heat- and cold-avoidance behaviors such as air conditioning. However, it is unknown what countermeasures are effective against this negative impact, i.e., whether they help mitigate the effects of negative price shocks. This study quantitatively examines the mitigation effect of the diffusion of renewable energy. Specifically, installing residential photovoltaic power systems and electricity self-sufficiency in households could mitigate the negative health impacts of electricity price shocks. The results of this study will also contribute to climate change adaptation measures as evidence suggesting the potential adaptive effects produced by renewable energy under climate change impacts.
Empirical Insights into the Health Impacts of Energy Poverty: The Case of Vietnam
Staff:NGUYEN Phung Thu Hang
Assistant Professor
The imperative of clean energy access for poverty alleviation, economic growth, and health preservation is underscored, with 2.4 billion people globally lacking access to clean cooking facilities. Energy poverty, prevalent in developing nations, poses health risks, notably indoor air pollution from traditional biomass use. Focusing on Vietnam, the study highlights progress in electricity access but reveals challenges, as 25% of households faced insufficient supply in 2010. Utilizing Vietnam Household Living Standard Surveys (VHLSS), the study empirically establishes a link between energy poverty and health outcomes. The study aims to underscore the urgent need to address the health consequences of energy poverty, particularly in developing nations.