Abstract: A method for supporting a catalytic metal on the surface of a carrier by bringing an aqueous catalytic metal salt solution into contact a porous carrier. The method includes the steps of: impregnating the carrier with a liquid hydrophobic organic compound before bringing the aqueous catalytic metal salt solution into contact with the carrier, and drying the impregnated carrier to volatilize the hydrophobic organic compound on the surface of the carrier, followed by bringing the carrier into contact with the aqueous catalytic metal salt solution; and then bringing a reducing agent into contact with the catalytic metal salt on the surface of the carrier to reduce the catalytic metal salt to undergo insolubilization treatment. The catalytic component is supported in a region from the surface of the carrier to a depth of 50 ?m or more and 500 ?m or less.