Japan unveils new plan to tackle growing bear problem | The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload ourSocial PartnerWe are 8 logo (opens in a new tab)AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleShweta SharmaFriday 31 October 2025 09:35 GMTJapan steps up bear safety measures after recent attacksJapan is experiencing a record surge in wild bear attacks this year, resulting in 13 fatalities and injuring more than 100 people.The environment ministry is launching a programme to hire licensed hunters and personnel, utilising additional funds to address the problem.Authorities are considering legal amendments to permit police to use rifles against bears, with Japan's Self-Defence Forces also assisting in affected areas like Akita.Experts attribute the increase in attacks to environmental factors, such as climate change causing food shortages, and demographic shifts, with bears venturing into depopulated rural areas.Bear populations, including Asiatic black and brown bears, appear to be growing, leading to more frequent sightings in residential zones, particularly in Akita prefecture.In fullJapan boosts funding to hire hunters as bear attacks surgeThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in