Izumisano and Sennan cities consider merger to bolster sub-capital status

The cities of Izumisano and Sennan in Osaka Prefecture have begun considering a merger to address challenges posed by a declining population. The two municipalities plan to establish a research group in January 2026 to discuss the merger and invite participation from neighboring local governments.

By merging, the cities aim to strengthen their position in support of Osaka Prefecture’s goal to designate the region as a ‘sub-capital.’ They intend to use this status to request increased fiscal support from the prefecture.