Bringing the “Low-Altitude Economy” to Reality.
The General Incorporated Association, LEAD-J (Low-altitude Economy Association for Development of Japan), is a professional organization dedicated to advancing the "Low-altitude Economy," which utilizes drones, robots, and services across land, sea, and air.
By leveraging two key pillars—our "International Business" arm, which introduces innovative overseas technology to the Japanese market, and our "Solutions & Consulting" division, which promotes the domestic use of drones—we contribute to solving challenges faced by both industry and society.
Our greatest strength lies in our robust network with key international suppliers, particularly in China. Through exclusive sales agreements and trust-based partnerships that are unmatched by our competitors, we ensure a stable supply of the latest, high-quality products to the Japanese market. We are more than just a product importer; we are a "Valued Partner" that provides comprehensive solutions, from technical consulting to after-sales service, supporting our clients' business success every step of the way.
To consistently introduce the latest airframes, parts, related products, and derived services to Japanese manufacturers and consumers, we are constantly seeking information on innovative technologies. We warmly invite overseas manufacturers interested in introducing their products to the Japanese market to contact us.
What is the “Low-Altitude Economy”?
The "Low-altitude Economy" is a collective term for all economic activities that take place in the airspace below 1,000 meters. This includes the use of unmanned and manned aircraft like drones and flying cars (eVTOL: electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft), as well as supporting technologies such as autonomous robots, AI, and ground-based infrastructure.
Specifically, it is expected to be utilized in a wide range of fields, including:
| Logistics & Delivery | Aerial package delivery via drones. |
| Agriculture & Forestry | Crop dusting and monitoring of growth conditions. |
| Inspection & Infrastructure Maintenance | Inspecting bridges, high-rise buildings, and power facilities. |
| Disaster Prevention & Relief | Assessing situations and transporting supplies during disasters. |
| Tourism | Aerial photography and sightseeing flights. |
| Urban Mobility | The transport of people and goods using flying cars. |
In China, the "low-altitude economy" has been positioned as a national strategy and a new engine for economic growth, with rapid progress in technology development and infrastructure. According to one study, the number of drone-related companies in China is projected to exceed 20,000 by 2025, with an annual production value reaching ¥4.4 trillion. This market is expected to continue expanding, growing to approximately ¥63 trillion by 2035.
These figures demonstrate the evolution of drones from a mere hobby tool into an indispensable asset in a wide array of industries, including logistics, agriculture, surveying, and disaster relief.
This significant trend is poised to have a major impact on the Japanese market, serving as a catalyst for the substantial growth of Japan's own "low-altitude economy" and drone industry.
