Japan's development aid: Self-interest or economic partnership?

Aid given by Japan has surpassed that given by the U.S. in dollars and as a percentage of donor GDP. The criteria underlying Japan's aid include the recipient's effort to be self-reliant, Japan's interest in potential markets for manufactured goods, rich resource markets, and profitable returns on investment. Results of the study indicate that Japan's aid is largely bilateral and tied. Asia is the predominant regional focus. Japan's aid is a small proportion of its grant element and a large proportion of its loans. Aid is commonly given on a request method, with a large proportion given for infrastructure development. Japan defends loans on request and encourages responsible spending and quick completion of projects to repay loans. Japan believes survival of rich nations is incumbent upon the development of poor nations.