On July 3, 2024, Japan began circulating new banknotes for the first time in 20 years. While these banknotes might seem ordinary in our daily lives, there is an incredible story behind them. The new banknotes are made from a plant called “Mitsumata.” However, Mitsumata can no longer be sourced domestically due to issues like aging populations and declining production. This is where the distant country of Nepal comes into play.
The Amazing Properties of Mitsumata
Mitsumata, a tree native to the Himalayas, has flexible and strong fibers that produce a unique sheen when made into paper. Since the Meiji era, it has been prized as a material for banknotes. A company that sells government publications in Japan has been striving to export Mitsumata from Nepal to Japan. The company’s president has visited Nepal for over ten years, working with local farmers to promote Mitsumata cultivation.
Mitsumata is also known as a material for traditional Japanese paper (washi). Due to its strength and beauty, washi is highly valued as a traditional Japanese craft worldwide. Mitsumata fibers are smooth to the touch, yet incredibly strong and durable, making them ideal for producing high-quality paper. Additionally, Mitsumata trees are popular in Japan for their beautiful yellow flowers in the spring.
Mitsumata Cultivation in Nepal
In villages at the foot of the Himalayas, more than seven hours by car from Kathmandu, Mitsumata cultivation is carried out. The Mitsumata harvested in the fall must undergo the harsh process of being soaked in cold water and dried during the freezing winter months. Despite this, the income from Mitsumata cultivation is invaluable for people living in these mountainous regions.
Nepal, with its diverse climate and terrain, relies heavily on agriculture as its primary industry. Mitsumata cultivation is especially important for agricultural activities in highland areas. Mitsumata grown at the foot of the Himalayas is considered higher quality than that grown elsewhere due to its unique properties. Local farmers improve their livelihoods through Mitsumata cultivation, which significantly contributes to economic stability, particularly in impoverished areas.
The Bond Between Japan and Nepal
Mitsumata cultivation not only provides raw materials for banknotes but also helps reduce poverty in Nepal. Although many farmers were affected by the 2015 earthquake in Nepal, leading to a temporary decline in Mitsumata production, the output has since recovered. Today, over 1,000 residents are involved in Mitsumata production.
Nepal’s Mitsumata exports have increased significantly over the past decade. Ten years ago, the export volume was around 30 tons; now, it has grown to 100 tons. This success is the result of sustainable agricultural practices and the development of export markets, achieved through cooperation between the Nepalese government and Japan. This successful model is being referenced by other developing countries.
The president of the Japanese company said, “Initially, we started this project to help alleviate poverty in Nepal. However, now, Japanese banknotes cannot be produced without Nepalese Mitsumata. The Mitsumata made by the people of Nepal supports Japan’s economy. It’s truly a win-win relationship.”
The Future of New Banknotes and Nepal
The introduction of new banknotes has deepened the friendship between Japan and Nepal. Every time we handle these new banknotes, it’s important to remember the efforts of the people in Nepal who cultivate Mitsumata and the bond that has been built through this process. These new banknotes symbolize not only a means of monetary exchange but also international cooperation and mutual support.
Moreover, Nepal’s Mitsumata industry contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly poverty reduction (SDG1) and building resilient infrastructure and fostering innovation (SDG9). Mitsumata cultivation in rural Nepal is an effort that aims to balance economic development and environmental protection, drawing international attention as a model for sustainable practices.
In Conclusion
The bond between Japan and Nepal, strengthened through the production of new banknotes, heralds the arrival of a new era. The president of the Japanese company expressed, “I hope people remember the farmers in Nepal when they hold the new banknotes.” This new banknote is expected to further deepen the friendly relationship between Japan and Nepal.
The impact of the issuance of new banknotes extends beyond Japan and should be recognized as part of international cooperation. The fact that banknotes, as part of economic activities, have a direct impact on the lives of people in distant Nepal is a significant lesson for us. We hope such international cooperation will continue to expand, creating new bonds with many countries and regions.
▷Reference： NHK News