Introduction
Kitani Nippon Spinning’s Crypto Token Plan Marks a Bold Web3 Move
In a surprising turn, Kitani Nippon Spinning is entering the crypto space planning to issue a token, mine Bitcoin, and tokenize its recycled plastic operations.
Why Is Kitani Nippon Spinning Entering Crypto?
A Strategic Shift for a Century-Old Company
Kitani Nippon Spinning, a 100-year-old textile company headquartered in Ishikawa and listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange (Standard), announced a decisive pivot into digital assets. This move was made public following a board meeting on May 14, 2025.
A Full-Fledged Crypto Strategy Beyond Investment
Kitani is not just buying Bitcoin. It is building an integrated crypto ecosystem, targeting multiple high-impact verticals in blockchain and digital assets.
Bitcoin Holdings and On-Balance-Sheet Crypto Disclosure
Kitani plans to hold Bitcoin (BTC) and other cryptocurrencies on its balance sheet, publicly reporting digital asset holdings as part of its financial transparency policy.
Renewable Bitcoin Mining Operations
The company is in talks with international and domestic partners to launch Bitcoin mining facilities powered by renewable energy sources.
Launching a Proprietary Token for Real-World Use
Utility Across Products, Services, and Procurement
Kitani revealed plans to launch a proprietary crypto token. This token will be used for:
- Payments across Kitani’s products and services
- Incentives in their supply chain, particularly for recycled plastic procurement
- Smart contracts in trade logistics and sourcing operations
Real-World Asset (RWA) Integration in Recycling Operations
Kitani is taking tokenization further by applying RWA to its recycled plastic supply chain. Blockchain will track source-to-destination flows, improve traceability, and cut costs.
From Textile Waste to Tokenized Transparency
Through RWA frameworks, Kitani will digitize key operations like:
- Material origin certification
- Contract execution via blockchain
- Supplier verification and payments
Internal Web3 Wallet and Decentralized Payment Gateway
Kitani also intends to develop an internal Web3 wallet for storing tokens and processing decentralized payments, especially for cross-border transactions with suppliers and buyers.
Global Legal and Economic Tailwinds Supporting the Move
Regulatory Green Lights in Japan and Abroad
Kitani’s crypto roadmap aligns with:
- The approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs in the U.S.
- Amendments in Japan’s Payment Services Act allowing stablecoin issuance
- A global trend of asset digitization and financial decentralization
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Kitani’s Crypto Division & Competitive Landscape
Formation of the Crypto Management Division
The new Crypto Management Department will launch in July 2025. It will oversee:
- Token issuance and governance
- Mining operations and ESG alignment
- Blockchain integration across departments
Kitani Joins a Growing List of Japanese Crypto-Adopting Firms
Kitani follows firms like:
- MetaPlanet (Real Estate) – holding Bitcoin as treasury
- Remixpoint (Energy) – investing in BTC infrastructure
- ANAP Holdings, SBC Medical – announced direct crypto purchases
Conclusion: A Traditional Giant Embracing the Digital Age
Kitani Nippon Spinning’s venture into crypto showcases a rare case where legacy meets innovation. By bridging the physical and digital with RWA, launching a functional utility token, and investing in Bitcoin mining, the company positions itself as a forward-looking leader.
In a time where traditional businesses must choose between reinvention and irrelevance, Kitani clearly chooses transformation.