While the buzz around the Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025 continues to build, a new study from a local university reveals another, furrier economic powerhouse at play in Japan. Katsuhiro Miyamoto, an Emeritus Professor at Kansai University, has unveiled a startling projection: the economic impact of cats, a phenomenon he dubs ‘Nekonomics’ (a portmanteau of neko, Japanese for cat, and economics), is estimated to reach an astounding ¥2.95 trillion in 2026.
This figure, which rivals the projected economic benefits of the Expo itself, shines a spotlight on the immense and often overlooked contribution of our feline companions to the nation’s economy. The analysis, released on February 12th, is not just about the cost of owning a pet; it encompasses a wide-ranging economic ripple effect.
What is ‘Nekonomics’?
‘Nekonomics’ refers to the total economic activity generated by cats. This includes direct spending by owners on essentials like cat food, litter, toys, and veterinary care. However, the impact extends much further, covering indirect effects such as the booming industry of cat-themed merchandise, media like manga and anime, and, crucially for travelers, cat-centric tourism.
The rise of ‘Nekonomics’ is rooted in Japan’s changing pet landscape. For years, cats have been quietly winning the hearts of the nation. According to the 2023 survey by the Japan Pet Food Association, the estimated number of pet cats in Japan stood at 9.07 million, significantly outnumbering their canine counterparts at 7.05 million. This preference for cats, often better suited to urban apartment living, has created a solid foundation for this massive economic phenomenon.
A ¥2.95 Trillion Impact: Breaking Down the Numbers
Professor Miyamoto’s calculation of nearly ¥3 trillion is a comprehensive figure that includes everything from the manufacturing of pet supplies to the salaries of veterinarians and pet store employees. To put this in perspective, the economic impact is comparable to the latest projections for the Osaka-Kansai Expo, highlighting that the daily purrs and head-butts of millions of cats collectively generate an economic force on par with a major international event.
This massive figure also includes the value generated by cat-related tourism. This includes visits to Japan’s famous “cat islands” like Aoshima in Ehime or Tashirojima in Miyagi, as well as the countless cat cafes that are a staple in cities across the country, including Osaka.
Kansai’s Central Role in the Feline Phenomenon
It is fitting that this study comes from Kansai University, as the region has long been a significant player in Japan’s love affair with cats. Perhaps the most famous example of ‘Nekonomics’ in action was Tama, the calico cat stationmaster of Kishi Station on the Wakayama Electric Railway. Tama’s incredible popularity drew tourists from all over the world, and Professor Miyamoto himself previously estimated her contribution to the local economy at approximately ¥1.1 billion. Her legacy continues today with her successors, solidifying Wakayama as a must-visit destination for cat-loving travelers.
Beyond Wakayama, Osaka boasts a vibrant landscape of unique and charming cat cafes, while the historic streets of Kyoto offer endless opportunities to spot local felines, some of whom have become minor celebrities in their own right. The Kansai region offers travelers a unique window into how deeply cats are woven into the cultural and economic fabric of Japan.
Future Outlook: A Sensitive Market
Professor Miyamoto’s report also offers a nuanced look at the future. He notes that the current high valuation of ‘Nekonomics’ is partly fueled by inflation, which has driven up the costs of pet food and medical care. Consequently, he suggests that the economic impact could see a potential decrease once these price levels stabilize.
This indicates that the pet sector is not immune to broader economic trends. However, for the travel industry, the appeal is less about the cost of cat food and more about the unique cultural experiences Japan offers. The global fascination with Japan’s cat culture is unlikely to wane, suggesting that cat-related tourism will remain a strong and stable driver of economic activity, inviting visitors to come and experience the purr-fect side of Japan.
