Information on Subsidies Available for the Implementation of Manual Handling Systems
Here, we’ll introduce Japanese government subsidies and tax incentives that you can take advantage of when implementing a manual material handling system.
Overview
With the aim of creating a safe working environment for older workers aged 60 and over, subsidies are available to cover the costs of risk assessments conducted by experts, as well as the costs of installing equipment based on those results (such as devices and machinery designed to compensate for declining physical abilities).
*This subsidy program consists of two phases: Phase 1, in which a risk assessment is conducted by an external expert; and Phase 2, in which safety measures—such as the installation of equipment based on the results of the risk assessment—are implemented. Note that if a company’s own health and safety officer is capable of conducting the risk assessment, Phase 1 may be omitted, and an application may be submitted directly for Phase 2.
Eligible Courses
Expert-Led Course (Workplace Environment Improvement, Exercise Instruction, etc.)
Eligible Businesses
(1) Small and medium-sized enterprises that have been in operation for at least one year
(2) Businesses that regularly employ at least one older worker (age 60 or older) covered by the company’s workers’ compensation insurance, excluding executives
Definition of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (for manufacturing, construction, transportation, etc.)
・A regular workforce of 300 or fewer employees
or
・Total capital or contributions of 300 million yen or less
Application Period
Wednesday, May 20, 2026 – Saturday, October 31, 2026
*The application deadline for Phase 1 of the Comprehensive Expert Support Program is Monday, August 31.
| Phase 1 | Phase 2 | |
| Eligible Expenses | Expenses necessary for undergoing a risk assessment conducted by an external expert in occupational safety and health that takes into account the characteristics of older workers | Introduction of equipment and devices to compensate for the decline in physical function of older workers, based on the results of the risk assessment Expenses required for other measures to prevent workplace accidents |
| Subsidy Rate | 4/5 | 1/2 |
| Maximum Amount |
1 million yen (excluding consumption tax) |
|
In this video, we use animations to clearly explain how to take advantage of subsidies that can help fund the installation of our manual transport systems and other assistive devices. We hope you’ll take a look.
Chapter 1: What Is the Age-Friendly subsidy?
Chapter 2: The subsidy Application Process
Chapter 3: Preparing Application Documents (*Explained in a follow-up video)
If you would like to see the follow-up video for Chapter 3, “Preparing Application Documents,” please feel free to contact us via the inquiry form.
We will send you a link to the video via email at a later date.
Overview
This program provides subsidies to cover a portion of the costs incurred by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and other businesses struggling with labor shortages when they introduce equipment and machinery that leads to labor savings. A key feature of this program is that eligible products can be selected from the “Labor-Saving Products Catalog” pre-approved by the national government, making the application process relatively simple and allowing for swift capital investment.
Eligible Items
Products and other items registered in the catalog as eligible for subsidies
Our Company’s Subsidized Products
・Mobile Vacuum Balancer “Jumbo Flex Mobile” (35 kg capacity) × 1 unit
・Dual-head suction gripper × 1 unit
*A three-phase 200V power supply is required to operate this product.
*The dual-head suction gripper is suitable for handling cardboard boxes and wooden boards. To handle other workpieces, separate attachments appropriate for the application are required.
Eligible Businesses
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and small businesses working to address labor shortages and improve labor efficiency
Definition of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (for manufacturing, construction, transportation, and similar industries)
・Capital of 300 million yen or less
or
・300 or fewer employees
Application Period
Through mid-October 2026
Subsidy Rate
Up to 1/2 (maximum 50%)
| Number of Employees | Maximum Subsidy Amount |
|---|---|
| 5 or fewer | 5 million yen (7.5 million yen under special provisions) |
| 6–20 employees | 7.5 million yen (Special case: 10 million yen) |
| 21 or more | 10 million yen (Special case: 15 million yen) |
*Please refer to the latest application guidelines for detailed requirements.
Regarding Subsidy-Eligible Retailers
Subsidy applications must be submitted jointly by the implementing entity and a retailer registered with the subsidy administration office.
You will need to proceed with the purchase of eligible products and the subsidyapplication through a registered retailer.
Overview
This program allows small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that have been certified for a “Management Capability Improvement Plan” under the Act on Strengthening the Management of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises, etc., to claim immediate depreciation or a tax credit when they install equipment that leads to improved productivity or enhanced profitability.
Eligible Entities
Small and medium-sized enterprises and other entities that file blue-form tax returns
Incentives
Immediate depreciation or a 10% tax credit
(7% for corporations with capital stock exceeding 30 million yen)
Scope of Our Products
[Productivity-Enhancing Equipment (Type A)]
・Machinery and equipment (1.6 million yen or more)
・Equipment that improves productivity by an average of 1% or more compared to the previous model
*A certificate issued by an industry association is required for Type A eligibility.
*If you wish to obtain a certificate, please contact us.
Application Period
Until March 31, 2027
Track Record of Industrial Association Certificates Issued
・Vacuum balancer “Jumbo Flex” (50 kg capacity)
・“Jumbo Ergo” vacuum balancer (35 kg capacity)
・Combination of the “Jumbo Ergo” vacuum balancer (85 kg capacity) and an overhead crane
If you have any questions regarding the subsidies and tax incentives we’ve introduced—such as “I’d like to know if my company is eligible,” “I’d like to understand the application process,” or “I’d like to discuss eligible products”—please feel free to contact us.
