Japanese Expertise and Brazilian Context

Amid accelerating demographic shifts and increasing climate risks, the future of the world's water infrastructure means more than just occasional repairs or upgrades. According to a July 2025 report from the World Economic Forum, there is an urgent need to implement smart systems based on technology, adapted to local needs and promoted through cooperation between governments, companies and civil society. Water is at the center of all human activities; this is why water resilience is no longer just an environmental issue, but also a key element of economic stability and sustainable development.

Japan stands out as a country that combines technological innovation, participatory governance and long-term vision in the management of its water resources. With a strong tradition in public policies focused on water, the country continuously invests in solutions for urban supply, irrigation for agriculture, prevention of natural disasters and the rational use of resources. Japan's commitment to water also consists in the implementation of its research and technologies in other countries. In Brazil, this cooperation is largely conducted by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), whose mission is to strengthen reciprocal relations and develop solutions in a collaborative manner, respecting local contexts.

Among the initiatives is PRODECER (Program of Japanese-Brazilian Cooperation for the Development of the Cerrado). Established in 1979, it was configured as a pilot project of financial and technical cooperation for sustainable agricultural development aimed at grain production in the Brazilian cerrado, focusing on efficient irrigation, the technological modernization of systems and machinery and support for small producers. The program developed 345,000 hectares of land in one of the most arid regions of Brazil, which has become an important agricultural hub in the country, combining Japanese and Brazilian techniques and research.

Another important initiative was developed between 2007 and 2010 in partnership with Sabesp (Basic Sanitation Company of the State of São Paulo), focusing on the development of human resources and the necessary mechanisms to reduce water waste and improve efficiency in water supply. This project was responsible for implementing technologies to detect leaks and reduce the volume of uninvoiced water — water that is collected and treated, but lost before reaching the end consumer. Training based on the Japanese models of prevention and maintenance of water systems, especially the Tokyo water management model, were applied and, through JICA financing (2012-2019), these actions were expanded to other municipalities in the state of São Paulo, which resulted in improved loss rates.

In addition to these examples, JICA is developing over 20 projects related to the water and sanitation sector, providing assistance in the challenges that Brazil faces. Whether through the modernization of urban networks or sustainable irrigation in agriculture, Japan demonstrates that water leadership is the result of planning and innovation, and also includes international cooperation.